RV REVIEW REVIEW AND PHOTOS BY HOWARD J. ELMER
2019 Airstream Nest interior
Size Matters Four lightweight trailers that have it all RV designers are hyper-aware of new social and market trends that will influence the next generation of trailer buyers. Frankly, they have to be. That said, the variety of units currently available from RV manufacturers is vast. This varied field of towable and motorized units tries to offer every age and demographic group what they want today and hopefully in the future. One of the new trends that manufacturers have been responding to is driven by younger buyers who are looking for something different. Specifically, this group is looking for lightweight trailers that they can tow with today’s mid-size wagons and small SUVs—not trucks. They want this trailer to be compact, as they want to tow comfortably, and when they do arrive at the campground they expect it will fit any site easily. Also, being urban dwellers, they have to consider that they have limited parking space at home. So, for these buyers—they want small and light. But this does not mean they will settle for bare bones. No, they want all the creature comforts afforded by larger RVs. And, finally, electronics, Wi-Fi connectivity and smart phone compatibility are must-haves. Here are four units available for 2019 that fit that bill.
2019 AIRSTREAM NEST Airstream, known for their shiny aluminumskinned trailers, has also introduced a lightweight molded fiberglass shell trailer. Called the Nest, it is billed as incorporating elements of nature into its interior design and color palettes along with a bold exterior statement featuring a two-tone premium gel coat that’s incredibly durable. This trailer is 16 feet 7 inches long and has a packed GVWR of 4,000 pounds. Within its compact floorplan though it hits all the high notes—a full kitchen, full bath, places to charge your phone, and all the technology to keep you happy. The kitchen features a two-burner cooktop with a cover that creates extra counter space, plus a microwave, a refrigerator with an icebox, and a generous stainless- steel sink. The entry door lets in tons of light through its window while the LED entry handle and outside lights help guide you home after dusk. On nice days, enjoy some bug- free fresh air thanks to the sliding screen door. JAYCO HUMMINGBIRD The Jayco Hummingbird 16MRB is built with Stronghold VBL vacuum-bonded laminate floor and sidewalls. It also uses a one-piece fiberglass roof and its fenders are powder- coated black aluminum. These construction features net a trailer that is 19 feet long yet hits a loaded GVWR of just 3,750 pounds. Jayco emphasis the build quality of the Hummingbird by pointing out the use of plywood bed bases and cabinets, both of which are screwed and
RV REVIEW
COAST TO COAST SPRING MAGAZINE 2019
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