Slide On Campers
These are a great 3 in 1 combination that includes a vehicle, camper and the ability to tow.
Slide On Campers are more compact than a motorhome or caravan. With a caravan type body the unit slides on and is secured to the bed or tray of a utility, creating a lighter and more economical travelling set-up.
Slide On campers are demountable campers designed to turn your everyday ute into a recreational vehicle. One of the major benefits of the Slide On Campers is their ability to tow if you are seeking to travel with boats, motorbikes or even a horse trailer giving wide flexibility.
They have legs or jacks that lift the van so the ute can reverse under it to be secured. Whilst they still have the comfort of a motorhome or caravan they are designed for off-road travel to reach the places that the larger vehicles can’t and have the benefit of being able to tow while travelling. They can also be parked on built-in jacks to enable separate use of the ute.
Designed to suit either flat tray utes or full-bodied utes, they come in many different sizes and configurations.
Slide-On Campers provides compact comfort and is easy to set up, and is most suitable for couples and singles.
Considerations
Things to consider
- Easier to tow and more fuel-efficient as they generally weigh less and have a lower travelling profile
- Easier storage options due to their lower height, as most will fit under a normal carport
- The zipper mesh windows located near the ceiling releases the hot air therefore providing a cooler environment than a conventional caravan, especially in the warmer months
- As they are less top heavy, they have a lower centre of gravity and therefore handle better and are usually lighter
- There are a few extra steps to set up therefore takes a little longer to set up than a conventional caravan
- Less overhead cupboard space
- Dust sealing can be an issue if you don’t keep the seals and gas struts in good condition and the roof clamps properly adjusted
- The door height may be lower, so care needs to be taken when entering the caravan
- Vinyl or canvas pop-top skirting provides limited insulation in cold weather
Preparing To Buy
Before you set off to the showrooms or dealers, take the time to ask yourself the following questions:
- List everything you want in the pop-top caravan then classify them into ‘You Wish’ & “You Need’
(This could include: Do you require an awning or full annexe; Will you cook inside or outside or both; Do you require a toilet/shower). - Where do you plan to go in your pop-top in the next two years?
(Calculate how many trips and total distance. Also consider travelling on roads, off roads etc) - Where will you store the pop-top caravan?
(Calculate the maximum height restriction) - What is the towing capacity of your vehicle?
(Match the caravan to your car)
How much space do you need inside?
(Consider how many people will sleep in it and storage requirements) - What is more important: the comforts of home or economy of light travel.
Visit a NSW Caravan & Camping Show
Head to one of our amazing Caravan and Camping shows where you will see everything on display in one convenient place. Find the next show here
Talk to a CCIA Member
CCIA Members are specialists in Recreational Vehicles and can help to direct you to the right vehicle that suits your needs and budget.Â