Conservatively speaking, off-grid and electric-enabled adventures are the future of the recreational vehicle industry. Airstream understands this space better than any other travel trailer manufacturer. It has consistently been ahead of the curve, leading the way with its trailer-based, self-contained aluminum RVs. To keep up with the shifting demand, Airstream is debuting its first all-electric trailer camper, the Basecamp 20Xe: 20 indicating its 20-foot floor plan.
Perhaps a compact home on wheels, the Airstream Basecamp Xe (as the company prefers to call it) is tailor-made for both off-grid exploration and traditional campground camping. Built on a single-axle trailer, it can be towed by any compact or mid-sized SUV and offers two living spaces, a spacious kitchen, and a wet bath. I’m surprised by the number of amenities packed into the Basecamp Xe’s compact frame.
Designer: Airstream
Airstream has been innovative and ahead in the race of firsts in the RV ecosystem, and the Basecamp Xe is a fine embodiment. It precisely measures 20.2 ft long and 7 ft 9.5 inches in width. It has a 6 ft 7 inches standing height inside, which makes the towable pretty roomy to move around from the kitchen to the bathroom and then into the bed. The space inside is consciously designed and the amenities are adjusted with off-grid adventurers and EV campers in mind.
Embedded solar and electrical systems render self-sufficiency to the Basecamp Xe, which can be accessed by the regular side or the glass rear door. The layout finds the convertible dinette on the one end, while the primary sleeping area on the other. The configuration easily allows up to four people to sleep comfortably. Usually for so many people out on a long weekend can feel stuffy and sometimes inconvenient without the lack of a wet bath. The Basecamp Xe addresses the concerns with eight windows and skylights, and a bathroom stocked with a shower, sink, and toilet (composting toilet is a providable option).
Coming to the interesting designed spacious kitchen in the middle of the travel trailer. It features a nice long countertop with an induction cooktop and a functional sink. Other appliances include a refrigerator, hot water heater, and a furnace powered by a 20-pound propane tank that also facilitates outdoor grilling sessions. Of course, this and onboard electrical and solar systems offer off-grid autonomy to the Basecamp that is also meant to go off-roading a little with a 3-inch factory lift kit, and all-terrain tires, protective fender flares and side skirts et al. For extending camping – wherever you are – the all-electric Airstream features 600-watt rooftop solar panels, a 10.3kWh lithium battery, and a 3000W inverter. The interesting travel trailer is currently available and starts at $76,900.
