A pop-up camper can have a steel or an aluminum body, which is the outside perimeter of the camper minus the retractable walls. The type of weather you plan to camp in can affect the type of frame you choose. Steel is a good choice if you plan to use your camper in the winter, as it provides better insulation. Steel also holds up better in heavy rain or hail. Although this material is very durable, a camper with a steel frame can be more expensive, so aluminum could be a better frame choice for occasional use.
Walls could be solid construction or simply canvas. A pop-up camper with solid walls is more durable than one with canvas. Even so, canvas is easier to take down and put up than other types. It also results in a lighter model that is easier to tow than one with solid walls. Solid walls provide better protection from the elements and provide more privacy than canvas ones do. Canvas models are less expensive than campers with solid walls.
Many models have a fully functional bathroom, which includes a toilet, sink and shower. Others may be half-bath models, which have only a toilet and sink. Many older pop-up campers do not have a bathroom at all. Bathrooms inside pop-up campers are usually very small, taking up the space of a small closet. Where you will be camping as well as the number of people you plan to take with you can determine the type of bathroom needed in your camper.
Pop-up campers typically have appliances that are slightly smaller than average. Some campers may have a freestanding stove with oven, while others have only a stove top. The refrigerator may contain a small freezer on top or it could simply be a small unit designed to hold only a few items. The size of the camper can determine the type of appliances available.
Pop-up campers typically have an awning that stretches out over one side of the camper. This can provide additional space for dining or relaxing. The awning may extend just over the doorway or across the entire length of the camper. Some models also have sides, which roll down, making a sort of makeshift porch for the camper. If your camper does not include an awning, one can normally be installed aftermarket easily and inexpensively.
