The very first single-axle Airstream travel trailer was named Bambi back in 1961. Over the years, we’ve used Bambi as a nickname for any single-axle trailer to indicate its lightweight, and honestly adorable design. But now, we’re making Bambi an official family of distinct travel trailers, with their own style, thoughtfulness, and most importantly, ultra-towability.
Single-Axle vs Double-Axle
Should you choose a single-axle or a dual-axle Airstream? Is bigger better or would agile and lightweight work for your travel style? Use our comparison tool to see the facts and benefits of each axle style, which will hopefully make shopping a little easier.
Single Axle vs. Dual Axle
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1
Length
Single-axle travel trailers range from 16 to 22 feet in length. To put that into context, an average car is around 15 feet long, while trucks are generally around 20 feet long. So, single-axle travel trailers aren’t much longer than your average vehicle on the road.
2
Towing
Because single-axle travel trailers are small and lightweight, they’re inherently easy to tow. In fact, you can usually tow a Bambi with an SUV – which means you don’t need to have a truck to enjoy a travel trailer. And less trailer weight usually means better fuel efficiency.
3
Axle
The axle of the trailer refers to a shaft that rotates a set of two wheels. A single-axle travel trailer has one axle and one set of wheels. Because there are only two wheels and tires, maintenance costs can be lower with a single-axle travel trailer.
4
Aerodynamics
The iconic Airstream aluminum shell makes single-axle and double-axle travel trailers equally aerodynamic on the road. Even our Nest and Basecamp travel trailers are designed to reduce wind resistance.
1
Length
Standard double-axle Airstream travel trailers range from 23 to 33 feet in length. That means double-axle travel trailers are longer than SUVs and trucks on the road, but shorter than most commercial or heavy-load vehicles.
2
Towing
Because double-axle travel trailers are heavier and longer, they can be more stable to tow in inclement weather or high winds. You can also inherently bring more along with you inside a double-axle trailer – more gear, more luggage, more of the things you love.
3
Axle
The axle of the trailer refers to a shaft that rotates a set of two wheels. A double-axle travel trailer has two axles and two sets of wheels. Often the weight distribution across four wheels and tires instead of only two can mean your wheels, brakes, and tires last longer.
4
Aerodynamics
The iconic Airstream aluminum shell makes smaller and larger travel trailers equally aerodynamic on the road. No matter the length of the trailer, the curved shape lets you slip through the wind on the highway and achieve incredible fuel efficiency.
Single Axle
Single-axle Airstream travel trailers range from 16 to 22 feet in length. They’re smaller, more lightweight, and easy to tow. In fact, you can usually tow them with an SUV.
Double Axle
Double-axle Airstream travel trailers range from 23 to 33 feet in length. They’re heavier, longer, and can be more stable in inclement weather or high winds. You can also inherently bring more with you inside of the travel trailer.
Looking for small and nimble? Meet the new Bambi family.
Or, meet the epitome of room to stretch out.
One of our longest-running product families, the Classic is, well, a classic member of the Airstream family. The Classic 33FB is our largest Airstream travel trailer available, with our largest bedroom, lounge, and a rear-spanning three-piece bathroom that just may be better than what’s at home. Check out the Classic family and see what kind of luxury dual-axle life can offer.
Which One is Right for You?
Sometimes it's difficult to know exactly which travel trailer fits your needs. Let us guide you through an interactive questionnaire and then we'll make recommendations to help narrow in on the perfect Airstream.