Think about what vehicle you will use to tow the pop-up camper. Pop-up campers range in weight from about 1,000 to 4,000 pounds. Heavier campers are sturdier but can't be pulled by a small car; a light camper might offer less protection, but the smallest can be pulled even by a motorcycle. You also need to determine what trailer hitch you’ll use to attach your vehicle to the camper.
Think about how many people will be staying in the pop-up, and how big those people are. Parents with small children need different space configurations than do adults traveling together. Campers sleep different numbers of people. They also come in different lengths, ranging from 6 feet to 20 feet, so consider where you will park your camper during your trip and while it's not in use.
Decide what kinds of amenities you want. The low-end campers might offer only a stove, storage cabinets and a sleeping space. Luxurious campers offer more comforts of home, such as a refrigerator, heater, microwave, oven, outdoor shower, extra slide-out room and deluxe outdoor grilling area. Think about what kind of activities you and your family like to do while camping to help you rate the camper that is right for you.
Decide whether you prefer a hard plastic roof or a thick canvas roof. Consider the kind of weather you will camp in: For snowy winter weather, a hard roof might be best, but hard roofs can make the camper hotter in the summer.
Assign a level of desire to each of the needs you found in the steps above, and you will be able to rate each camper to your individual needs.
