The number of people the trailer sleeps and the configuration of the sleeping areas are important factors. The ends of pop-up trailers slide out, forming king- or queen-sized beds, while tables and banquettes fold down to create beds and sofas unfold for sleeping. Having a seating area for early risers separate from the beds can keep the peace in the morning. Storage space is a problem if you're towing with a car rather than a truck. Some pop-ups come with outside storage or a trunk. Consider whether you need a toilet and shower on board. They take up space better used for seating and storage, and if you'll stop only at campgrounds with bathhouses, they're usually unnecessary.
Towing a trailer that's too heavy for your vehicle is dangerous. Check the owner's manual for your car or truck's capacity and learn the difference between gross vehicle weight ratings, the maximum a fully loaded vehicle can weigh, and gross combined weight ratings, the maximum weight of the trailer and tow vehicle, and how they apply to your trailer/vehicle combination. Many pop-ups are light enough to be towed by a car, but others need a truck or van, and very heavy trailers benefit from trailer brakes. Take your skill level into consideration. A heavy trailer requires greater control and can be more difficult to back into a campsite. If it comes to it, a light trailer can be unhitched and manually moved into the site.
The type of camping you intend to do is another consideration. Pulling into a campsite with water and electric hookups and a nearby restroom removes the need to carry extra batteries, propane and water. Boondocking, or camping in areas with no hookups, requires plenty of propane, potable water and extra batteries or solar panels to power the lights. RV supply stores sell portable toilets that can be tucked under a bench when they're not in use. Winter camping calls for extra thought. Pop-up trailers, made mostly of canvas, cool off quickly when the furnace shuts off. The best trailer for winter camping has room for an extra propane tank. If your tow vehicle is a truck, purchase an additional tank for winter camping.
Camping magazines and vehicle rating services such as NADA are a good place to start your search for a new or used pop-up. RV enthusiasts love to share their opinions on models, so spend some time in camping forums and talking to friends, neighbors or fellow campers who have experience with folding trailers. This gives you an idea of what models to steer clear of, but nothing replaces going to a dealer and inspecting a variety of models. Take a flashlight and look into cabinets, lie on the beds and imagine cooking a meal with your family around you. Try popping the trailer open and taking it down: Some are easier than others to erect.
