Airstream 16' Sport

[Greg C.]

I'm considering buying a new, or slightly used, light weight trailer 16'. From my research, it seems as though the Airstream is the ultimate in quality, although expensive. Never used a trailer before and would like to rent one first. I live in the S.F. Bay Area. I'd appreciate any input, if I'm heading in the right direction?

[Donna D.]

Well Greg, as you know you're on an all molded towable forum and we're very biased. I don't care to own an Airstream for several important reasons to me. To begin with, I couldn't repair exterior damage and couldn't afford to have someone else do it! Frankly, I think the build quality on the new(er) Airstreams has really gone down hill while the build quality on new(er) all molded towables has gone up.

Best of luck!

[honda03842]

Greg, Before we bought our Scamp we considered the Airstream 16 and decided against it.

First it would have required a new tow vehicle; the dry Airstream was heavier than a fully loaded Scamp 16 and heavier than the fully loaded Casita 16 we were using at the time. Second the Airstream cost twice what a brand new Scamp or Casita cost and actually more than a new Escape 21.

Though I like the looks and tradition they don't seem justifiable.

[Terry G]

I guess Airstreams are good if you don't plan on taking it anyplace where it might hail. There's one like this in the storage lot where I keep my Casita:

[Greg C.]

Much appreciated input from all of you. I'm ok with considering the Scamp. Buying a trailer is so much different than a truck, with a dealer in every neighborhood. Any ideas on the best way to view a Scamp in my area. Do any of you folks have a 16' Scamp in the S.F. Bay Area I could look at?

[Donna D.]

Scamp has a referral service, call them. There's also going to be two egg gatherings happening in California. I think you're missing this one http://www.fiberglassrv.com/forums/f...ing-55972.html, and another one the end of October http://www.fiberglassrv.com/forums/f...lly-56369.html. Gatherings would give you an opportunity to view different brands and do some eye comparison shopping.

[Greg C.]

Never would have thought about hail damage. That Airstream looks like it sat in the middle of a golf range for 10 years. Thanks!

[Greg C.]

Thank you Donna D. I will ask about the Scamp referral program.

[Carol H]

Greg, if there is any chance of getting yourself out to the rally at Lake Casita I would do it. I know when I was looking at trailers nothing bet sitting in them to help make up my mind. Lots of FG trailer brands will be at that rally. Suspect even an Escape or two which are quickly outselling Scamps here on the west coast.

[cpaharley2008]

Just remember there are over 3,000 rivets in an average Airstream, each one is a potential leak. Also Airstreams will not customize nor change anything, unlike Escape Trailer Ind. Escape Trailer Industries > Home

[Mike Magee]

Greg, welcome. What is your tow vehicle and engine?

In addition to Scamp out of Backus MN and Escape Trailers out of Chilliwack BC, there's also Casita in TX to consider. All 3 have been around for a good amount of time and have good reputations. I think they all have referral programs, since they sell factory direct and have no stealerships... I mean dealerships!