Toy Hauler Tent Trailer - A Recreational Vehicle Review

A Toy Hauler Tent Trailer is also known as a pop-up or folding trailer. Our first RV was a Jayco tent trailer and after years of sleeping on the ground it was the Hilton of camping for us. But then we added the ATVs to our inventory of toys and the old Tent Trailer was instantly inadequate. We chose not to go the Tent Trailer route. But could it be right for you? Keep reading.

Tent Trailers are often the first RV people purchase because of their low cost to get started. These little gems are lightweight, making them ideal for smaller tow rigs. Their low profile and small size make them easy to maneuver. It was cool to be able to sneak our Jayco in places where no other RVs could go.

After our years of "tent camping" we were pleasantly surprised to learn that a Tent Trailer could provide the amenities of a bigger RV without the price tag. Ours had a propane furnace, small icebox, gas range and a sink. If you really want to go uptown you can get them equipped with AC, gas refrigerator, and a toilet. What's this have to do with Toy Haulers? I'm getting there.

Since most Tent Trailers have fabric walls, nasty weather can make you feel as though you've set up in "tornado alley," but that's only an illusion. We found ours to be quite weather proof and cozy. Other than the sound of nature trying to relocate you and your trailer, this can be quite soothing after a long day of riding.

There are things to be aware of when you own a Tent Trailer. The canvas/fabric does not like to be stored wet. If you had to quickly pack up and head home because of a rainstorm, then you will need to set it up and completely dry the trailer as soon as the weather allows. The bed is often 3 to 4 inches of foam and usually feels as though you are sleeping on bricks. We bought one of those foam egg crate toppers and found that it actually helped a lot. And privacy? Don't turn on a light while it's dark outside, or you will cast a silhouette that you may regret!

So just what is a Toy Hauler Tent trailer? When you look closely you will find they are little more than a run-of-the-mill Tent Trailer on a large flat trailer. On the plus side, Toy Hauler Tent Trailers store the toys and their smells outside the living area. As an added bonus you'll see that the platform performs double duty, toy storage and patio. What a wonderful place to perch and watch the action. Be sure to raise your drink to those passing by.

Now, let's suppose for a minute that your idea of a playground is way out in the sand dunes or up some forbidding 4X4 road. You will need something a little smaller with great ground clearance. I found just the ticket! How about something with a cook top, a couple of beds, and is quick to set up, say in about 5 minutes flat?

Then take a look at the "Jumping Jack." I crawled all over this one at our local RV show. We're talking about a lot of steel and very rugged construction. Expedition West has a great review with lots of photos and a short video on this great little trailer. If you have a Jeep Wrangler or similar and plan on heading to the outback, this may be your Toy Hauler of choice.
In my opinion, a Toy Hauler Tent Trailer can get you into the action cheaply and comfortably.