Tag Archives: pop-up campers

Small Trailer Snapshot: The Aliner Scout Lite

There comes a time in the life of most tent campers when they start to think, “It’s time to get off the ground”. I’d venture to say some of you can raise your hand to the affirmative with that sentiment. While it’s uncommon for a tent camper to jump right from their $89 tent they got at the big box store into a $400,000 42’ diesel pusher, it’s not uncommon for them to jump into something that’s not that much larger than the tent they’re leaving behind. Some folks just like small spaces, whether it’s on the ground or on two wheels. One such trailer that fits that mould is the lightweight and light on the pocket Aliner Scout Lite.


Key Features: Opening or closing an Aliner can be achieved in less than a minute; Azdel thermoplastic composite interior wall and ceiling panels; Performax 500 premium marine grade flooring; City water hookup; Dinette that converts to a 40”x76” bed; 30”x76” bed; 14” aluminum wheels; 10″ electric brakes; Diamond plate stone guard; Solar port; 35 amp converter; 3000 lb axle; Optional front soft dormer; Optional Command A/C Heat Pump; Sink; Two skylights with night shades (Dormer option eliminates skylight with night shade).

Key Specs: At a dry weight of 1,180 lbs before options (which are few) and a total length of just 13’, the Aliner Scout Lite can be hauled by just about anything.

  • Box length: 10’
  • Total length: 13’
  • Width: 78”
  • Height closed: 57”
  • GVWR: 3,000 lbs
  • Tongue weight: 130 lbs
  • Cargo capacity: 1,320 lbs

Why I like it: The Aliner Scout Lite gives you a lot of the same features as a teardrop trailer does…with more. It gives you a lightweight trailer, but unlike a teardrop, it gives you the ability to stand up and move around. And unlike some high end teardrop trailers, it gives you a much more favorable price point, checking in at just over $10,000 depending on options.  Aliner the company has been building A-frame campers in their Mount Pleasant, PA factory for close to 40 years now, and have been the pioneer of this design.

I’ll be honest, this is not going to be a trailer for everyone. However, Aliner does make other A-frame campers that give you a stove, a refrigerator, more room, and even a wet bath in some. But knowing my readers like I do, I’m pretty sure there’s a large group of you that will be intrigued by this lightweight, low cost option to get you out of that tent at a reasonable price.
For more info on the Aliner Scout Lite, visit their website at https://aliner.com/campers/scout-lite/

Special thanks to Aliner dealer Mount Comfort RV for having me out to check out the Scout Lite and many other Aliner they have in stock.

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Small Trailer Snapshot: The Coachmen Clipper/Viking Express 9.0TD

Back in September when I was attending the Elkhart RV open house in Elkhart, IN, I came across this little offering in the Coachmen RV section at the Forest River compound. The shape and size of it instantly caught my eye for a further look. It was a new model Coachmen was introducing in both the Clipper and the Viking lines of camping trailers. The one on display was a Coachmen Viking Express 9.0TD.

Key Features: Unique hybrid design, with elements of both a teardrop and a pop-up camper; Rear entry door; 5,000 BTU air conditioner; Bluetooth stereo; Full pass-through storage; 20,000 BTU furnace; 1.2 cubic foot 110 volt refrigerator; Zamp solar prep; USB charging ports; Side mount grill with quick-connect propane hook-up; Four heavy duty stabilizer jacks; Optional rear awning.

Key Specs: 9′ box length; 13′ total length; Weighs just under 1,100 lbs; 54″x74″ bed; 13″ aluminum wheels; 20 lbs propane tank; 12″x24″ baggage doors; 15″x24″ windows.

Why I Like It: The Clipper/Viking Express 9.0TD hits all the right notes for me in a small camping trailer. Who’s it for? I see it for those who want to “get off the ground” from tent camping and into something with a little more amenities, but without breaking the budget. I’ve seen these advertised for less than $7,000, so they’re quite affordable for most. It’s also excellent for those with low tow capacity, as it weighs under 1100 lbs. While it is a step up from tent camping, you’re still responsible for your potty facilities, as it does not have a toilet, which will be a deal breaker for some. However, it’s safe to say you’ll already know that based on the size of the Clipper/Viking Express 9.0TD. If you like cozy, without having to pay a king’s ransom, this is the ticket. You’d be spending more than half of what an upscale traditional teardrop is going for these days. But one thing the 9.0TD has going for it that a traditional teardrop doesn’t is that you can actually stand in this once the pop-up is popped up. The 5,000 BTU air conditioner should more than take care of you on a hot summer day when you have the tent portion zipped up. And to add to that, you’ll get excellent cross ventilation from the two windows that are on each side of the camper near the head of the bed. And it’s got decent storage for what it is as well, featuring a bed that flips up for storage access, as well as interior cabinets as well as a shelf above the head of the bed, which also houses two speakers for the Bluetooth stereo. Add the optional tent room and you’ve got a nice little set-up that you’re not spending a fortune on. These are slowly starting to show up on dealers lots and websites, but I suspect that will increase over the next couple of months just in time for spring. So if you’re in the market for a teardrop, or if you’re a tent camper and just want to get off the ground, give either the Coachmen Clipper Express 9.0TD or the Coachmen Viking Express 9.0TD a look. I think you’ll find they’re a really nice alternative for your budget and camping experience.

You can find more info of either model at:

Clipper: http://coachmenrv.com/camping-trailers/clipper/9.0TD/4503

Viking: http://coachmenrv.com/camping-trailers/viking/9.0TD/4487

 

(photo courtesy Boe RV & Marine)

 

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