Aliner has been building hard sided pop up campers since 1984, and they’ve been generally accepted in the industry as the standard which other manufacturers follow in that category. In the late 2000’s, Aliner experimented with conventional small travel trailers with the Marco and the Amelia, which were short lived with minimal success. This year, Aliner has made a comeback in the small travel trailer segment with the introduction of the 13 foot Ascape.
The Ascape is produced in Aliner’s Mt Pleasant, Pennsylvania’s plant. In these times where every manufacturer is copy-catting what everyone else is doing, it’s refreshing to see someone come out with something that no one else has. And despite its diminutive size, the Ascape is loaded with a lot of amenities.
One of the unique features of the Ascape is the rear entry door, which includes a drop floor creating a generous 6’4″ of interior head room. When the dinette is converted into a bed formation, it creates a very roomy 64″ x 77″ sleeping area.
The Ascape packs a lot of standard options, including outside shower, 40 watt front roof mounted solar panel, electric brakes, 13″ aluminum wheels, 3.0 cubic foot refrigerator with freezer, 6 gallon water heater, range hood with fan, Fantastic Fan, screen door, LED lighting throughout, 2 burner range top stove, deep stainless steel sink with pull out faucet, microwave oven, dual 20 lbs propane tanks, and 16K BTU furnace.
When it comes to options the Ascape offers, there are just a few and they come in one package: 9200 BTU roof mounted A/C, a 5 foot Carefree awning that mounts over the rear door, Thetford cassette toilet, and a 23′ flat screen TV with a Bluetooth sound bar.
I did mention above that the optional air conditioner is a roof mount. However, for a period this year, Aliner was installing wall mounted units, which is how these units I looked over at Mount Comfort RV were equipped. I’ve been told that newer Ascapes being produced will have the roof mounted unit. If you go with option package that includes A/C, this will negate the standard Fantastic Fan. However, if you want both the wall mounted A/C and the Fantastic Fan, as you can see from these pics, there are some out there.
As for the exterior, the Ascape is a smooth aluminum siding with a one piece of aluminum on the roof. Four stabilizer jacks are standard as is the front mounted spare tire. The graphics packages offers four different color options. The green pictured above is standard, but you can also pick from black, red, and blue.
As for overall specs, the Ascape is 13 feet from hitch to tail, and fully optioned will weigh right around 1700 lbs. Exterior height is 7’5″ without A/C and 8’4″ with the roof top A/C. The box width is 66″ and the total width is 73″. The hitch weight is 170 lbs and the GVWR is 2500 lbs, giving you somewhere around 700-800 lbs of cargo capacity.
So you might ask who is the Ascape made for? Several! It’s great if you have a tow vehicle with minimal tow capacity. It’s also a perfect fit for a growing segment of buyers, and that would be single females looking for something easy to tow with minimal effort to camp in. I also see this set up well for the adventure outdoors buyers looking for something they can use off the grid, as the standard solar panel and dual propane tanks can offer some extended boondocking. Or it’s also good for those of you who like unique, cool looking small trailers with good features. Overall, my opinion is positive on the Ascape. It would be nice if there was a wet bath feature, but given the small footprint of the Ascape, a wet bath would take away much of its storage, so it would take some creativity. However, Aliner has been pretty creative over the last 30 plus years they’ve been in business, so if it can be done, they’ll be able to.
While at Mount Comfort RV looking over the Ascape, I also did a little 10 minute walk thru video for you to get a little more up close look. A fully loaded Ascape has an MSRP of just over $20,000, so you should be able to fetch one somewhere in the mid teens range.
Another great small trailer option! I agree that a nice option for the solo traveler would be to use one side of the dinette as a “twin” bed keeping the table up and the other side of the dinette for sitting. Very nice.
Thx,
Dean
Where is the battery?
On the tongue.
It’s always nice to see a manufacturer being creative and coming up with new ideas. Storage is always a problem in small trailers. Can it be ordered without the microwave to allow for another kitchen cupboard?
Trailers in Europe and Australia have similar floor plans and some made of fibreglass.
See a newer article from this publication about a model with fewer amenities.
Nice review. My wife and I love this little camper. This fits the bill perfectly for us. Some options I would like to see. A front window, a longer tongue with a storage box, or platform. A longer version with a side entrance and wet bath. Great job on your blog.
Newer ones come with a wet Bath with cassette toilet. What isn’t mentioned is the easiest to put a bicycle or even small scooter up into the trailer.
The bed is only 64″ wide, so unless you are shorter than that, you would be uncomfortably cramped if not impossible to sleep on just the twin bed.
The bed is 77″ long running front to back, so you could have a narrow twin bed setup sleeping in that direction.
It is an interesting setup, and I have been looking at it online. Around 2006, Aliner was making something similar as every once in awhile, I see one used being sold, it was called the “Cabin A”. Also, I believe the Amelia was a Chalet product. I am a little “RV obsessed”.
You sleep end to end,….not side to side.
Great article and photos! We are the brand new & proud! owners of an Ascape. She’s had many admirers and we’ve given many tours.
We’ve taken a couple of short trips–so easy to tow with a Subaru Outback (6 cylinder). I’m a novice tow-er, so I appreciate the fact that the camper is narrower than the car. We’re glad we got the version with the wall AC AND the fan. The “Fantastic Fan” really moves air, either into or out of the camper. It’s great to have the screened door and windows open for fresh air when the outside air is cool enough. In terms of design, we’re still figuring out the best places to stow things, but I am certain we’ll work that out. (We love the workspace provided by the counter over the toilet.)
In terms of appliances, the stove and microwave work well, but the fridge takes a long time to get cold. on “shore power.” A friend has suggested that using the propane option will make it get cold faster, but we haven’t tested that hypothesis yet. (It is great that the fridge can be fueled by AC, DC, or propane.) Southland RV in north Atlanta installed a “Jack-It’ bike rack on the tongue, and it works well. Two road bikes WILL fit in the camper, but that’s not our first choice. We ordered a custom-fit mattress pad from Advanced Bedding and chose the anchor strap version (as opposed to elastic wrap-around) as a way that makes it easier to make the bed. (Yes, we’re spoiled. Don’t want to use a sleeping bag.)
There are a few small construction details that are disappointing. The cabinets (beside the TV) hinge up to open but there is nothing to make them stay up while you rummage around except our jerry-rigged bungee cords. Also, the side rails for the open shelves on both sides over the windows are quite handy, but the glue used to hold them to the shelf melted/loosened/came unstuck and fell off when the camper was parked in the sun. I am sure that glue is cheaper than screws, but screws would make more sense and prevent the rails from falling off. The door can be locked with a deadbolt or the latch closure, but the deadbolt cylinder pulled right out of the door during our second trip. Finally, and only as a personal preference, we would like to have a lighter-c0lored wood for the cabinets and inside wood detail.
All in all, while there have been these few relatively small disappointments, we are looking forward to taking the Ascape on many more trips. It’s easy to stock and prep for short trips, and I think it will be just as easy to take on longer trips when we have the time and feel more confident. Happy camping!
looking into get one. My question is are you both comfortable in it space wise. If you should get caught in the rain. We are deciding between this or a aliner scout. It would be my husband and myself and we try to be outside most of the time but I just don’t want to fell cramped.
I currently own a 2018 scout with A/C built-in instead of outside unit. I think they only did this a couple of years? Woefully inadequate. On hot days in Indiana you can’t go inside. Due to the design there are multiple places for air leaks (not water). That being said it has been a wonderful camper and been very satisfied. We will likely trade for the Ascape. My wife fell in love with it. Of course it will cool more easily and anything more than the smallest portable electric or propane heater. The pricing is all over the map. I’ve see prices for the exact same Ascape vary by as much as 7,000 dollars: anywhere from 18 to 10 grand. We have owned several different type of campers. Pop ups to giants and back.
So what is the dry weight for this.?
Just purchased a 2020, ceiling a/c, dry weight 1600 w/40 gal propane & battery.
I picked up my new 2019 Ascape Base+ a month ago, just drove a 60 miles trip home.First thing I checked was the bearings on the axle, the manufacturer recommend checking them after a few miles, mine needed some adjusting, they were on the loose side.Its better to have the bearings a little loose than a little to tight. You could feel the slack when moving the wheel when off the ground, I also inserted some more lithium grease in the zerk (nipple)
Lithium only grease don’t mix types, I contacted the factory to get the info. I purchased some spare bearings online, it’s cheap insurance. I always carry spare bearings and seal for my trailers. You can get the kit bearings seals cotter pins and washer. check the Dexter Axle manufacturer site for the right ones fot you camper.The 2019 Ascape Base +camper uses a 2500lbs rated Dexter axles, with 10 x 2 1/4 electric brakes. 10 x 2-1/4 Inner/L68149…Outer/L44649 don’t hit the yellow brick road without them.
I also torqued my lug nuts to 90lbs as recommended. My tires were low, the pressure should be 65psi max for the tire size and type . I have run the furnace and stove for proper running , I will have to wait for the weather to get warmer to check the water system. I put the battery in my garage on a tender. I would have prefered an AGM “Absorbed Glass Mat” battery but that’s my preference, I have the smart tender for AGM batteries. The NAPA Marine deep cycle is a good battery.
I wish Aliner did not do away with the “Fantastic” fan to make room for the roof AC unit. I had one in my truck camper and it was really fantastic, it could suck the air out of my soft side pop up when rolling the roof down.
I took the TV out, no need for it in the woods.
I like the Ricky and Lucy bench beds, it save from setting the sleeping area every night. There is also plenty room for Miss Pickles to curl in at our feet.
To cover the camper, I bought a 20×16 ft 11mill canvas and a bunch of bungee cords and added some air vent that I found online. Wrapping the trailer takes a bit of doing at first but it’s worth it. The trailer with AC unit is 8.4 ft tall. Too big for my garage. The camper is well built and put together. The bottom flooring under the camper is made of some new tech Azdel composite panel bullet proof and water repellent, a big improvement in RV construction, my Palomino truck camper walls used to absorb water like a sponge.
Having two propane takes the guessing out of figuring if you have enough propane left in the tank, specially if you don’t have a way of gauging it. Once one tank is empty turn the level to the full tank then go fill up the mt one as soon as you can .
I pull the camper with my 2012 Chevy Silverado, it maybe over kill but the extra space in the 8ft bed is great for storing extra camping stuff and tools even my speed road bike. The truck drives like the camper is not there. Perfect for back road and steep road like the Blue ridge parkway, having electric brakes is a nice thing too. The pick up was already wired for it, all it needed was the the module under the dashboard.
I can’t wait to take it on the road to West Virginia soon in April.
Laissez le bon temps roulez.
Thank you for your great info. I also have a 2019 Aliner Escape basic model. I use it for one person, me. I sleep window to window. Very comfortable. I have added an additional 4″ foam mattress. Over my 50 years of camping with everything from tents to a 32′ motor home, I love my Aliner products the best.
A few questions for you.
1. My Escape has a roof A/C. I seldom use it because it gets way too cold. Do you know if it can be removed and replace it with a side A/C? I know I would have to cut a hole for it.
2. I would like to attach a awning type or Tent type unit for extra room for those long stays while camping. Do you have a suggestion about brand and price?
3. In regards to the solar panel, did you buy it separately or did yours comes with your unit?
I have an indoor Cat only but I would like him to travel with me? “Safely”. Do you know of any covered cage unit and where to buy it?
My unit is a back door open/shut which I love rather than a side entrance.
By the way Her name is “Miss Red, White and Blue”.
Happy and safe camping to us all. Thank you for your help.
Another super review! The price point seems steep but it looks like a great little camper for a niche population. Thanks for your continued effort to bring new small trailers to the attention of those of us out here who are looking for the “perfect” one to suit individual needs. If there IS such an animal I hope to find it someday. Until then I’ll keep draggin’ my ’69 Shasta Compact behind me. 🙂
Although Ascape is shorter, the floor plan reminds me a lot of Lil Snoozy, which I’ve always admired. Lil Snoozy doesn’t have propane, which is a shame.
How tall is this?
With rooftop AC it’s 8’4″, and without, it’s 7’5″.
You probably mean a “40 Watt” solar panel!! A 40 Amp solar panel would be monstrous!
Good catch! I’ll edit the post.
Note liking it – looks like they cut a regular travel trailer in half in an attempt to create a small trailer.
Nice review. My wife and I have looked at this extensively online. We like the size and the features. A a couple of improvements I would like to see. A optional front window would be nice. I would rather see windows that have integrated Shades and screens and open fully. Does a camper this small really need two propane tanks. A longer tongue would allow for external storage box or bike storage. A internal shower yes I know this will be nothing more than a shower curtain it looks like the galley bathroom area could be easily converted for such use. Some great features on this RV for it’s size. Could you store a bicycle or two on the inside. Thanks for a great video and review
I don’t think a couple of bike down the center would be an issue. You could always pull the table during transit for a little extra length.
Our two road bikes fit fairly easily inside with the table removed. However, we did have a “Jack It” hitch-mount bicycle rack installed. It works well, though if I were an inch shorter than 5’2″ I wouldn’t be able to put the bikes up without a stepstool.
Daphne,
I just purchase an aliner ascape and had a jack it installed. They needed to change the wrench on the front and now need to use jack stands to take off the wheel in the hitch. This is kinda of a pain as its an extra step. Did you have to make this change?
I purchased a 2018 Ascape earlier this year (in May). It’s been a great little camper. Has everything I need, and then some, and sleeps me, my 15 year old son, and my 60 lb dog just fine in the queen size bed. We just had to learn (including the dog) that only one person can be up and about inside the camper at a time.
I have the model with the wall mounted A/C unit. It sits inside one of the benches. I think I would have preferred the roof mounted one, as the wall mounted takes up some storage space, which could be nice to have. But I do like the fan on those days that it’s not warm enough for A/C, but warm enough to have it running to move the air around. And I’ve been doing OK with the storage I have with the A/C in bench, so I’m complaining.
Overall, it’s a very nice little camper. I’ve had several camping trips in it already, and plan on many, many more int he years to come. And one other big feature that I like that you can’t build into the camper – It’s a real conversation starter!
This looks like a great option for a smaller camper. We looked at the Tab and the Lil’Guy but those don’t even allow you to stand up in them fully. However, they do have a wet bath which is the main reason that might keep some of us from springing for this. A wet bath would synch the deal. This has so many nice features. I might be one of the rare people that like the cheaper side air conditioner. If it craps out it’s $200 and a nearby Walmart and it’s replaced. A roof air conditioner can add to potential leaks in the future, a failure would be outrageously expensive and only fixable and replaceable at the dealer. So that would be a huge savings and convenience. I just wish it had a full wet bath. It certainly seems doable.
Look at the Ascape ST
I bought an 18 Ascape without the roof a/c. The cube unit in the side works ok but I find having a small fan to help circulate air when the bed is set up is helpful. It is a little heavier towing than I expected (I drive a 17 Escape) but the small torqued motor seems to do ok. I do notice the wind drag difference but that is to be expected. The bed opens to queen-size and it is very comfortable (although we utilize one of those foam, coned shaped mattress pads, which helps a lot). We just roll it up towards the front when done and it doesn’t really cost us any space. Bottom line is thus far we are very happy with our purchase. See you out there in the campsites!
Is your 17 Escape a 4 or 6 cylinder and 4 wheel drive? I love the idea of pulling this cool looking Ascape with my 02 Escape… so glad it’s working out well for you! (I’m very jealous ?)
I can’t comment on the Escape, but I have a 2.4L (4-cyl) Jeep Patriot that pulls my Ascape just fine. It’s a little sluggish on hills, but not that much.
why not post a price?
Last paragraph in the post…
Price without toilet and ac?
The way Aliner has the options set up, the toiler and AC are part of a single options package that also includes the rear awning, and the 23″ TV and sound bar. From an MSRP sheet I have, the option package is $1500, so that should give you an idea what that brings your price down to.
I have a 2017 T@B 320 Max S at this point. I am 6ft. tall and have to bend over and can not stand straight up which is tough on my back. I am considering the Ascape in the next year or so, but would like a wet bath inside along in addition to the exterior shower now available. I love the rear door entrance as it gives me room to stand and also is near the rear door for cooking which allows for a nice breeze through the camper while cooking, etc. If you add a wet bath that a 6ft. guy can stand in, then I will be trading in my T@B very soon. I have ALiners in the past and I have been very happy with the product. Thanks Aliner for creating a more European camper which is affordable and easy to maintain and tow !
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I have a 4 cylinder Hyundai elantra. Towing cap is 2000 lbs can I tow this?
Thanks
I have a 2.4L (4-cyl) Jeep patriot with a 2000 lb capacity. I can tow it fine. Just be careful about not loading too much inside and going over the 2000 lbs. Also, watch your tongue weight. Just filling the water tank on mine put too much weight on the tongue, and I could really feel it wanting to sway (it was a short trip, but I’m not doing that again until I get a different tow vehicle that can handle it).
Can it except bigger wheels and tires? I would really prefer 14″ or 15″ if they will fit in the wheel wheels. I do some long distance driving and lite off-roading, (perhaps I should say dirt- roading). A bigger wheel and tire and little more ground clearance is always a good thing.
After lots of hours of research into small campers – and a few trips to dealerships in the area – I finally purchased the Ascape in May 2017. It had the best combination of factors that I considered important. Since then, I have used it on two short camping trips. It is very comfortable for one person and a small dog, even using just one side of the bed. The heater and A/C work well, as do most other appliances. However, the trailer is in the shop for the third time, and I’m beginning to wonder about quality control. Most recently, I couldn’t use the trailer as planned after a 200-mile drive. There are currently three issues: 1) the 12v water pump won’t build up pressure in the system and runs every 8 to 10 seconds trying to do so, 2) the propane alarm goes off randomly (it’s very loud) even though there’s no propane smell that I can detect inside, 3) the “auxiliary” LP tank has a leak when turned on and, therefore, cannot be used (this is NOT the reason for the inside alarm). Today, I left it at the dealership, hoping they can get it to function reliably enough to take on an extended road trip in a few months. This is my third small camping trailer, but the first Aliner.
Thanks for the update, Loren. Always hate to read things like this. RV ownership should be a time of happiness and not frustration. I don’t think consumers would be too upset for manufacturers to slow down a bit and make sure it’s done right. Hopefully things will get smoothed out for you soon.
I very much agree that we’d prefer manufacturers take the time needed during the build to get it right. The Ascape is a great design and I’ve had many people ask about it, wanting to see the interior. They often comment about how “spacious” it feels inside. I still have high hopes this will be my travel and adventure vehicle for trips being planned. Thanks!
UPDATE (10/20/2017): The Ascape was repaired at the dealership and is now working well. The original battery was defective and wouldn’t hold a sufficient charge. That’s what caused the problem with propane alarm which is, apparently, sensitive to low voltage from the battery. The battery was replaced. The water pump was not adjusted correctly and two of the fittings weren’t tight enough. With an adjustment and some tightening, it now works fine. For the propane problem, an exterior propane line was replaced and the auxiliary tank can now be used.
Hi Loren, it’s been a few months since your last update. Can you give us another follow up?
I have only two fears about buying a new RV design like this. Depreciation when you drive off the lot. And working the bugs out for the manufacturer.
So feedback from you folks is very important to those of us who haven’t committed yet. We sure won’t get it from the dealer or manufacturer!
Hi, Lee. It’s an excellent design, but it feels like we are working out the bugs of a new product. Mine has been in the shop four times and I have been able to use it only two nights since May 2017. In other places, I have seen advice from owners to consider purchasing a two or three year old RV, because the various issues will have been taken care of. Apparently, initial quality issues aren’t limited just to new designs or certain manufacturers.
A few weeks ago, the dealership replaced the LPCO detector which seems to have fixed the problem with the alarm going off all the time, even when the LP tanks were closed. I finally did thorough troubleshooting myself to isolate the problem, because this was the third time at the dealership for the same issue.
I hope to take it out one more time before making a decision about whether to keep it for summer travels. For a single person, it seems the perfect design for road trips, but it has to work properly and reliably. If you do buy one, negotiate a reasonable price for it.
Thanks for the feedback Loren. I discussed the issues you mentioned to the dealer when I went to look one over before buying. He indicated no one had brought one back to them yet so you may be one of those unfortunate people who got the one they rushed out the door at the end of the shift on a Friday. Anyway I got an exceptional price on one ($3000 less than my local dealer) by driving a couple hundred miles to another dealer. Brought it home and am giving it a thorough once over. Someone mentioned towing it. My Tacoma 4 cyl. Automatic towed it across the desert on level ground with cruise control on with no issues, even got my usual gas mileage. But really noticed it when going up a steep hill and especially in high winds. Still my truck handled it with no issues, uphill in the wind at 55 mph in second gear. It seems to be very stable even when being passed by 18 wheelers. I really appreciate your feedback Loren and hope you don’t have to give yours up. Keep us posted!
For Lee: Congratulations on your new Ascape. Interesting that we use the same tow vehicle (4 cylinder Tacoma) and have had a similar towing experience. I added an anti-sway bar that connects to a second ball on the hitch and to the side of the “A” frame on the trailer. It makes it really stable in windy conditions. Same issues with going up steep hills and mountain grades, but overall tows beautifully. Wishing you many happy miles and years with your Ascape.
I bought a 2019 Ascape with the inside toilet and shower. I have taken it out about 8 times over the past 18 months and something has gone wrong each time. The toilet continues to leak after being “fixed” twice, charging system not working, water pouring out the back when shower used, broken drawer, coil in not water heater not connecting, upper shelves coming loose to name a few. This was in the first year. Hoping the dealer will buy back this lemon. Just have been a bad day at the factory.
I’ve only had mine in the shop once, and that was for the recall on the propane tank tray. But just before that, I noticed that teh USB ports weren’t providing any power, so I mentioned that and they replaced it. Other than that, I’ve only had very minor issues (leaky plumbing connection that I wrapped with Teflon tape, and the board along the back of the toilet that the counter top hinge was connected to was loose).
An update on the Aliner Ascape I purchased in April 2017: After being in the shop at the dealership five times, the initial issue with the battery and LPCO alarm was not fixed. It is on its third battery and second LPCO alarm and the alarm still goes off randomly every time I’ve used the camper. This week, a local RV shop diagnosed the problem as a faulty converter that was not charging the battery. The converter and battery (the fourth one) will be replaced at a cost of $700+. They repacked the wheel bearings and found two broken springs on the brakes. I don’t know, yet, what that will cost. The unit has been used six nights in two years and has about 1600 miles on it. It’s a great idea as a camper, but the cost of ownership averages out to several hundred dollars per night – certainly much more than a very good hotel somewhere. At this point, I’m over Aliner…
I hear you. I got a lemon too!
I love my Aliner Ascape 🙂 Only cons I have are the blinds, most new campers are standard with same blinds, but I will change to pull down shades sometime. I don’t like where the LED light buttons and pump/hot water heater controls are located. Too easy to just hit with hip and turn on. Needs moved to another location or a plastic cover like on frig controls to prevent turning on accidently.
One of the first things I did was replace the blinds. I got the pull down kind, and it’s a huge improvement.
i wouldnt pay that price for thats double to triple mark up !
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I am really impressed with this new trailer and hope to get one soon. One
question though…Is it possible to make an off-road version with larger tires
and more ground clearance yet still keep all the amenities?
Can a second battery be offered? Also, I understand why you can’t have
both the roof mounted ac unit and the fantastic fan because of space, but, and
keep in mind I have no experience with RVs, can you keep the roof
mounted ac and move the fantastic fan to the rear wall where the porch light
is and redesign the porch light to be perhaps an led strip? Or are the fans
strictly rooftop mounted and not wall mounted? For all you experienced RVers out there, this is probably a stupid question. Please forgive my
ignorance, but I am trying to educate myself.
I have a 2017 Ford edge se with out a towing package will it tow this ok.
Hi All, I’m very interested in feedback from current owners.
I have only two fears about buying a new RV design like this. Depreciation when you drive off the lot. And working the bugs out for the manufacturer.
So feedback from you folks is very important to those of us who haven’t committed yet. We sure won’t get it from the dealer or manufacturer!
Can I pull the Ascape with a S60 Volvo?
Sheri – If you let me know what year and engine you have, I’ll see what I can find out for you.
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I’ve been looking for a winter ready camper/trailer that can be towed up mountain passes in deep snowstorms for camping at the ski mountains. I wish the titanium package was available for this aliner ascape… or at least add a toilet to the titanium 12.
Hi everyone! I’ve enjoyed reading your comments. I bought my Ascape Plus in April 2017 – my very first camper! I was one of the unfortunate ones who had issues with my trailer, so I will start there. I had a leak from the emergency exit window, which stained one of the cushions. After my first trip the fridge quit working (a bent fuse) and one window blind malfunctioned. With the trailer being new and the repair shop being unfamiliar with this model, the whole process took about three months. I became so annoyed, at times I wondered if I’d have had as many problems getting a vintage trailer. I absolutely love those. A new window was installed, new cushion and new blind. I ended up camping only three times last year, but plan on more this year – already booked three trips and will squeeze in a few more.
Now for the good things. I always thought I would buy the T@b trailer, but heard about this one while at a show. Looked at videos nearly every day waiting to see one in person. I am 5’9″ so this has more head room. My main requirement was it needs to have a toilet! Most places I camp have showers, but I also made a breakdown shower with pvc pipe and two shower curtains – and it works well. It’s nice to have all the modern conveniences and the sink is a really nice size. With each trip I am getting better at packing things and finding the best places for things. I did mention this is my first camper! Now I’m excited to glam her up a bit with cool curtains and other retro decorations. I agree some things could have been made better. I have bumped into the water pump switches and I noticed they are recessed in newer pics. I will try to put a guard around them. I want to move the blinds an inch closer to the window so I can add my fancy curtains, but will ask to see if wires run along there before I drill. And I will put some silicone around the bottom edges of the screens to help deter those little bugs from getting in. It’s only me using the trailer so I put a mattress cover and sheets on just one bed and use the other as a seat. I remove the table at night so I don’t kick it getting out of bed.
I pull it with my 4 cylinder Subaru Outback and it tows pretty well. I really enjoy pulling off and enjoying a nice lunch along the way. And the cassette toilet can be emptied anywhere. Much easier than a black water hose I think. It is certainly a conversation piece as everyone wants to see it. Even the ladies with those cute vintage trailers.
I will say I got a very quick and great response from Aliner when I wrote them about the problems I had. Now I just want smooth sailing.
Looking at buying on next week. At this point would you still consider buying it if you could do it again? Also would love to see what you have done to it and how you go about storing things .
Thanks Rob
Looked at Prolite trailers but the Ascape is put together better when comparing quality and features in yhe same weight class
Hello Carolyn. You mentioned you towed your Ascape with a 4 cylinder Outback. Was that on flat ground or up any hills? I also have an Outback and am curious to know how it would do pulling something like the Ascape up the mountains near me. Congratulations on your trailer! I hope you have had some good adventures! Thanks.
I’ve seen them up here in Canada, Eastern Ontario region. The price in CDN dollars is $27500. That’s just a touch ridiculous.
Is there storage under those seats?
We appreciate all the good information here. We are buying our first camper and want simple, light, and easy, but we do like a touch of “luxury.” The stove hood and a deep sink at thoughtful, high value adds for me. The cassette toilet design is very nice and keeps it simple/easy. Blackwater tanks and wet baths are not of interest for us. This will be used for 2-3 day biking trips so great to get confirmation we can stow our bikes in the camper! We’d love to hear about winter camping as we’d consider staying in campgrounds near ski resorts.
Like others have commented, offering a more offroad/gravel road friendly version with bigger tires would close the deal for us. We’re not in a hurry to buy so we’re hoping next year’s line up addresses some of the bugs and unmet desires. The additional window at the front would be a great design addition.
Been looking hard at the Ascape. Would love to see a clothes hanging rod over toilet that allows you to slide clothes forward when toilet is being used and back when not. Wonder if they have considered a no oven model, for more storage or fit a wall ac in its place to keep the trailer height down. Will be looking at next years offerings.
How do I get a manual for this 2018 aliner ascape? We’ve had it now for about 3 weeks and do not have a manual on how to do things we need to know. Such as does a small front wheel at the front come off when driving the trailer on Road? My address is Victoria Harp 1219 North 34th Street Fort Smith Arkansas 72904 period or my email address is vharp2@att.net. I would really appreciate a manual on this trailer since we have never had an RV trailer of any kind. Thank you again Victoria Harp
I would suggest contacting Aliner at aliner.com
Hi all! We are looking at an Ascape (first camper) for towing with our Subaru Forester. Given the relatively narrow footprint with the roof mounted A/C, I have some concern about cross winds, semi-trucks, etc. causing stability issues on the highway. I read one person (above) that mentioned semi trucks being okay, but wondered if anyone else has an opinions on wind/drag? Thanks!
Hi everyone.
I have a couple of questions. You said all aluminum, does that include the frame? Also what axle does it have, is it an independent torsion suspension?
Thanks
Jeff
Rob
Looked at one today, the frame is powder coated steel with a Torsion axle. Roof is aluminium , sidewalls fibreglass laminate .
I like everything about this trailer except the air conditioner. Can it be ordered without as I plan on boondocking most of the time and therefore wouldn’t have power for it anyway. And to have that much more storage space would be great.
I currently own a 2018 scout with A/C built-in instead of outside unit. I think they only did this a couple of years? Woefully inadequate. On hot days in Indiana you can’t go inside. Due to the design there are multiple places for air leaks (not water). That being said it has been a wonderful camper and been very satisfied. We will likely trade for the Ascape. My wife fell in love with it. Of course it will cool more easily and anything more than the smallest portable electric or propane heater. The pricing is all over the map. I’ve see prices for the exact same Ascape vary by as much as 7,000 dollars: anywhere from 18 to 10 grand. We have owned several different type of campers. Pop ups to giants and back.
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I am looking for a cover for my 2017 Ascape ST. A company will custom make the cover if I can provide full measurement and pictures for the unit. I would rather get a cover from a company that has created one for my unit previously. Can you give me guidance for this.
I purchased a 2017 which obviously was shipped out quickly with no inspection. None of the electric appliances other than lights were connected to come on and the trailer had to be taken back to dealer next day. A water hose was too short and not connected. A hot day traveling and the glue holding the rails completely became a gooey mess falling off. There should be a solid locking latch on the refrigerator to keep it from bouncing open. The door latch had to be moved over to latch adequately. I voiced my issues with the dealer and sent email to company, the company did not respond. The trailer was very comfortable and pulled easily with Jeep, no issue on 4500 mile cross country trip with semi’s, we dealt with heat but not wind or storms. I like it but these combined little issues really should not have made it out of a factory inspection, and the dealer did no prep inspection before sending it off lot. 2 years ago so hopefully these issues have been resolved. I do see that the shelf rail has changed. Every stop we have people want to look inside. I believe they have changed the canopy…on my 2017 you can’t have it out and open the door….. good ideas but in haste to get this small trailer out, small modifications weren’t done that would have eliminated these issues.
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I picked up my new 2019 Ascape Base+ last month. I drove it about 60 miles home. I have not camped in it yet. Once home I checked the furnace and gas stove, since it freezes at night I have not checked the plumbing. I plan on doing this sometimes in April. I did check the bearings on the axle. I also bought some spare bearings and seals online , it’s a cheap insurance. I always carry spare bearings on any trailer I owned. The manufacturer recommend checking the bearings after a few miles, mine did need s a slight adjustment, remember a little too loose is better than a little to tight. I added some more lithium grease, don’t mix different types. The camper comes with nice electric brakes, bigger drums and pads than I expected for this size trailer (2500lbs). I wish the caper came with an AGM battery but that’s my preference. I already owned a smart AGM tender. But the Marine Deep cycle battery will be fine, specially with the solar panel on the roof. I took the TV out and speakers no need for them camping. Btw the Honda e2000 will take care of the ac easily. I used it with a bigger AC unit on my old truck camper and it would run nicely even in eco mode. I pull the camper with my 2012 Silverado 1500, can’t tell when driving the camper is trailing. I plan on boondocking a lot with it. I like the two bench seats idea to sleep, one Lucy and the other Ricky. I’ll be testing the rest of the mechanicals and stuff in my driveway for a few days to make sure everything works as it should. The dealers are not always very thorough. My wheels lug nuts were not torqued right a couple were actually loose recommended torque is 90lbs, and on tire was down to 30lbs psi instead on the recommended 65lbs psi. So check that stuf out before you hit the yellow brick road. I like the trailer it is well built, unlike my cheesy truck camper that would suck water in the wall like a sponge. The trailer frame well made, I wish Aliner did not do away with the fantastic fan when adding AC on the roof. The fans really do a good job. I’ll be missing that in the camper. The fridge is the usual Dometic 3 ways and it works well. I had the same fridge in my truck camper, the only drawback was when using in propane mode while boondocking the cooling fan would kick in if the outside temperature was high, so it would deplete the battery my faster, but on the Ascape the solar panel should compensete for the extra draw of the fan, we”ll see this summer. I have an exra small portable 6 watt solar panel that can be pluged on the side of the camper next the city water hookup. I bought a 10 ft extension lead for it, so it can be placed accordingly.
To find out about the bearing , the trailer axle is a Dexter, check their website,the brakes size is 10×2 1/4 the beaings are L68111. inner/L68149 outer. Hope this help. Laissez le bon temp rouler
I picked up my new 2019 Ascape Base+ a month ago, just drove a 60 miles trip home.First thing I checked was the bearings on the Axle, the manufacturer recommend checking them after a few miles. Mine needed some adjusting, they were on the loose side. You could feel the slack when moving the wheel when off the ground, I also inserted some more lithium grease in the zerk (nipple)
Lithium only grease don’t mix types, I contacted the factory to get the info. I purchased some spare bearings online, it’s cheap insurance. I always carry spare bearings and seal for my trailers. You can get the kit bearings seals cotter pins and washer. check the Dexter Axle manufacturer site for the right ones fot you camper.The 2019 Ascape Base +camper uses a 2500lbs rated Dexter axles, with 10 x 2 1/4 electric brakes. 10 x 2-1/4 Inner/L68149…Outer/L44649 don’t hit the yellow brick road without them.
I also torqued my lug nuts to 90lbs as recommended. My tires were low, the pressure should be 65psi max for the tire size and type . I have run the furnace and stove for proper running , I will have to wait for the weather to get warmer to check the water system. I put the battery in my garage on a tender. I would have prefered an AGM “Absorbed Glass Mat” battery but that’s my preference, I have the smart tender for AGM batteries. The NAPA Marine deep cycle is a good battery.
I wish Aliner did not do away with the “Fantastic” fan to make room for the roof AC unit. I had one in my truck camper and it was really fantastic, it could suck the air out of my soft side pop up when rolling the roof down.
I took the TV out, no need for it in the woods.
I like the Ricky and Lucy bench beds, it save from setting the sleeping area every night. There is also plenty room for Miss Pickles to curl in at our feet.
To cover the camper, I bought a 20×16 ft 11mill canvas and a bunch of bungee cords and added some air vent that I found online. Wrapping the trailer takes a bit of doing at first but it’s worth it. The trailer with AC unit is 8.4 ft tall. Too big for my garage. The camper is well built and put together. The bottom flooring under the camper is made of some new tech Azdel composite panel bullet proof and water repellent, a big improvement in RV construction, my Palomino truck camper walls used to absorb water like a sponge.
Having two propane takes the guessing out of figuring if you have enough propane left in the tank, specially if you don’t have a way of gauging it. Once one tank is empty turn the level to the full tank then go fill up the mt one as soon as you can .
I pull the camper with my 2012 Chevy Silverado, it maybe over kill but the extra space in the 8ft bed is great for storing extra camping stuff and tools even my speed road bike. The truck drives like the camper is not there. Perfect for back road and steep road like the Blue ridge parkway, having electric brakes is a nice thing too. The pick up was already wired for it, all it needed was the the module under the dashboard.
I can’t wait to take it on the road to West Virginia soon in April.
Laissez the bon temps roulez.
I took the RV battery off the 2018 Aliner Ascape for the winter and now do not remember which side is negative and which side is positive on the front frame/hitch area. Can you adivise?
We bought our 2019 Ascape from Campers World in NC. Stayed a few days in the area to make sure all was well before we drove it home to Michigan.
We were really pleased with the way it handled the cold ocean wind when camping on the shore. It was winter, and the Ascape did great.
We bought this trailer after first buying an EPro. The EPro was great for off road, but did not have the kitchen or bathroom inside. Not at least in the size we could pull. Ascape has everything we need for long weekend road trips. With Covid now, it’s good to have our own bathroom where ever we roam. A few things on the wish list. It would be nice to have the TV work when we boondock. An installed inverter handled that. Front could use more room for a second battery. A rack on the front would look awesome, with so little storage, that would really work.
I’m concerned about it not having any sort of rear bumper, however, we are working on some sort of fabrication we can figure out.
All in all, we are very happy. There are always issues with campers, you just have to get a little dirty and fix them. This is one cool little RV, that will make you feel like your actually camping, more than a tent, less than those big monsters on the road. We love it.
Sandra
I made myself two little bumpers for my 2019 Ascape+. I used 2×6 with some rubber and metal washers some long nuts and bolts. You can drill the lower part of the body on ether side of the door to mount them.
I finaly took the camper on a trip to Maine. It was fun. The camper rides nice and smooth behind my Silverado pick up. I did have to fix some little problems from manufacturing. Mostly loose screws.. my cassette toilet screwed in wrong.(could not pull the fill up tube out of the compartment The stove top was badly anchored to the counter. The water tank filling neck was leaking from a loose brace. Also the fridge was not plugged in for the 110v inside the vent.
All in all nothing major that I could not fix. But I expected better from this nice little camper brand.
Can you please tell me how much height there is when a person sits at the dinette? My husband is 6’2” so we know he can stand but can he sit comfortably with the rounded/sloped ceiling.
Having a super hard time finding it in any brochure and company not responding to email.
Thanks in advance to whatever help and info you can provide.
Respectfully
Susan
Susan
I’m 5’8″. If your husband sits in front of the window by the counter or the bathroom he will have ample clearance with the ceiling. Even if he sits in the middle of the seat he won’t be hitting the roof.I would send you a pic but my camper is all covered for the winter.
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