Two people working together can easily set up a popup camper in less than an hour. First the top has to be cranked up to its full height. This is usually done with a hand crank, although on some of the more expensive models, especially the hard-sided ones, hydraulics lift systems are available. After the top is up, the sides, which contain the sleeping areas, are folded out and secured with both inside and outside support poles. The door, usually fastened in the ceiling when not in use, is put into place. Water and electric are hooked up and the inside compartments are unpacked. Some of the hard-side models, rather than folding out like a tent, telescope out from the center, one side at a time, to reveal the bed space.
To make your popup camper roadworthy at the end of your camping stay, just reverse the process of setting up. If you've had some rain, try and wait until the canvas has dried before packing it up. If that isn't possible, once you are home you will need to put the camper back up so the sides dry. This prevents mold from growing on the canvas. It is also a good idea to check the top of the popup camper to see if any water has pooled. Draining this, or at least directing the water away from you when folding the camper, can keep you from getting an impromptu shower.
It's always best to do a complete check of your popup and tow vehicle before you leave the campsite. Make sure your tow connection is secure. Be sure you have unplugged your popup camper from the electrical and water outlets at the campsite and have stored the connection cord and hose. The propane needs to be off and all the safety locks in place. Popup campers are an affordable step up from tent camping. Common sense is the most useful tool in figuring out how they work and in getting the most enjoyment out of your camping experience.
