Camping and traveling to different scenic places is a favorite pastime for many people who want to experience Earth’s natural beauty. However, it’s also the source of some material waste that’s harmful to the environment. It’s more important than ever that companies provide consumers with sustainable, eco-friendly, products in order to circumvent this. Two companies, Airstream and REI Co-op are collaborating to do exactly that. Their new joint venture is a revision of Airstream’s Basecamp, a small, two wheeled, silver, travel trailer.
Insistence on sustainability
This collaboration has a strong focus on sustainability and being eco-friendly. Airstream has even gone so far as to state that the Basecamp is their “most sustainable trailer” yet. The two companies have coined the new trailer the “REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer.” The trailer makes use of both renewable solar power as well as using recycled materials so as to keep their ecological footprint to a minimum. The new trailer also includes water conservation features for customers, including a composting toilet!
Lightweight sleek exterior
The collaborative Basecamp trailer is super compact and towable with a variety of SUV’s, making it extremely efficient for travel. It features Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires and aluminum wheels, as well as added stainless steel rock guards and fender flares, for extra protection against the elements and debris when traveling.
One of the trailer’s more Eco-friendly components is its roof, which includes solar panels. Customers are able to choose from two different solar packages, the first package being their standard 200 watt system. The second package is priced at a hefty $5,500, but includes a lot more. The upgraded solar panel roof can harness up to 360 watts of solar power, and powers a 200Ah lithium battery bank that stores excess clean energy.
The exterior also features a solar window guard to block harsh light from entering the special edition trailer, while still allowing for users to have natural light.
Versatile modernized interior
The interior of the REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp includes a dinette/lounge area that can be transformed into a 76-inch x 76-inch bed. The company has also included a large amount of storage options, ranging from cabinets to L-track systems built into the floor and walls to secure cargo while en route. The kitchen of the trailer has panoramic views, and includes everything users need to make meals.
The sink includes both a regular faucet, as well as a UV-LED drinking faucet, helping customers avoid having to use single-use plastics. An included sink cover made from recycled paper, allows for the sink area to be doubled as a cutting board, and the two-burner stovetop has a tempered glass cover that provides more counter space for users when not in use. The interior also includes a wet bath and composting toilet, eliminating the need for flushing, and helping to extend the use of the water tank.
Pricing and availability
The REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailer was put on the market in July, and starts at $52,900. However, Airstream’s company website states that due to high demand wait times are currently longer than normal. The company recommends that customers contact their local Airstream dealer in order to learn more about the product’s availability and order options.
Source: Airstream
