 What Defines a Vintage Trailer? Vintage camper trailers evoke a sense of nostalgia and a love for the craftsmanship of yesteryears. But what exactly defines a "vintage" trailer? While the term itself can vary depending on who you ask, many enthusiasts and organizations, such as Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine and Trailerfest rallies, generally consider trailers manufactured before 1976 to be vintage. Why 1976? This year marks an approximate shift when trailers started becoming more boxy and mass-produced, departing from the distinct designs of earlier decades. However, like any passionate community, there are exceptions and nuances. Some rallies and enthusiasts embrace trailers that go beyond this 1976 cutoff. They recognize that certain trailers, despite being manufactured later, embody the unique craftsmanship, design, or spirit of vintage trailers. These exceptions often include trailers with special constructions, motorized RVs, buses converted into living spaces, and even modern retro-style or reissued trailers that pay homage to their historical counterparts.  Diverse Rallies, Diverse Rules Part of the charm of vintage trailer rallies lies in their diversity. Each rally can have its own rules regarding what qualifies as a vintage trailer and who can participate. Some rallies strictly adhere to the pre-1976 cutoff, celebrating the authenticity of vintage trailers from specific eras. These events often focus on preserving and showcasing the historical significance of these trailers through restoration and appreciation. Find a vintage trailer rally near you. On the other hand, there are rallies that embrace a broader definition of vintage. They may welcome newer trailers that capture the essence of vintage design or offer unique features that contribute to the community's spirit and camaraderie. This inclusivity allows enthusiasts with a wider range of trailers to join in the festivities and share their passion for vintage camper culture.  Beyond the Cutoff: Exploring Diverse Trailer Types In addition to traditional vintage trailers, the community also embraces other types of trailers that enrich the hobby. This includes teardrop trailers, which have a compact and aerodynamic design that harkens back to the early days of camping. These trailers may be small in size but are big on character and functionality, making them beloved among minimalist campers and vintage enthusiasts alike. Furthermore, reissued trailers (1961 Shastas) that faithfully recreate designs from past decades appeal to those who appreciate vintage aesthetics but prefer modern amenities. These trailers blend classic style with contemporary comfort, offering a nostalgic experience without sacrificing convenience.  Celebrating Diversity and Passion Ultimately, the world of vintage camper trailers is as diverse as the trailers themselves. Whether you're restoring a 1950s aluminum masterpiece or towing a retro-inspired trailer made just last year, the common thread is a love for craftsmanship, design, and the unique community that surrounds these vehicles. So, the next time you're at a vintage trailer rally, take a moment to appreciate the variety of trailers on display. Each one tells a story of creativity, dedication, and a shared passion for preserving the charm of days gone by while embracing the innovations of today. Whether it's a meticulously restored classic or a modern interpretation of a bygone era, every trailer contributes to the rich tapestry of the vintage camper trailer community. 
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Submit your best image of a vintage camper trailer for our 2025 calendar! If your photo is chosen, you'll receive a complimentary copy of the calendar. See last year's images below, or pick up a calendar for $5.00 here. To ensure top-notch quality, please follow these guidelines:
Do you want professional photos at a reasonable price? Try: www.snappr.com Include the year, make/model of the trailer, the owner's name, and residence (city/state). If different, include the photographer's name. Submit your photos and be part of our stunning 2025 vintage trailer calendar by July 31st. Submit large images with wetransfer.com or dropbox.com or email them to [email protected]   Introducing the Vintage Camper Trailers Boot Camp Online Restoration Summit! Are you passionate about vintage camper restoration? Do you dream of bringing a beloved classic back to life but don't know where to start? Look no further! The Vintage Camper Trailers Boot Camp Online Restoration Summit is here to guide you every step of the way. Join us on August 23 & 24, 2024, for an electrifying online summit where seasoned experts spill the secrets to reviving those charming trailers of yesteryear.  What to Expect This immersive experience is designed to bring you up close and personal with top-notch professionals in the field of trailer restoration, all from the comfort of your own home. Whether you're looking to revamp interiors, master exterior fixes, or simply gain some inspiration, we've got you covered.
 Your Vision is Attainable, and We're Here to Help We understand the passion and dedication it takes to restore a vintage camper. Our summit is here to support you, providing the tools and knowledge needed to turn your vision into reality. As one past attendee remarked, "The Boot Camp was a game-changer for me. The insights and tips I received gave me the confidence to tackle my restoration project head-on."  Welcome to Our Value-Packed Online Event! The best part? It's all free! Yes, you read that right. You can access all this incredible content without spending a dime. Plus, there are special offers and prizes available to participants, making this event informative and rewarding.  Why Attend?
 Don't Miss Out! So, grab your toolbox and buckle up for a journey packed with knowledge, camaraderie, and a whole lot of fun. This is your chance to dive deep into the world of vintage camper restoration and bring your projects to life. Sign up now and let's bring those vintage RVs back to life! Remember, it's free to attend, and the experience is priceless. As another attendee shared, "The camaraderie and expertise at the Boot Camp were unparalleled. I left feeling inspired and ready to tackle my restoration with renewed vigor." Join us for the Vintage Camper Trailers Boot Camp Online Restoration Summit on August 23 & 24, 2024, and take the first step towards reviving your beloved vintage camper. See you there!  Step right up for the ride of a lifetime! Picture yourself cruising into the sunset in style with a 1957 Mercury vintage trailer hitched to a classic 1955 Ford Ranch Wagon—all yours for just $10! The Good Sam, Safe Ride raffle is your ticket to vintage road-tripping in classic style. Don't miss out on this chance to win these iconic treasures and hit the open road in true retro fashion. Enter today for your shot at living the vintage dream. Go to the Good Sam Safe Ride website. See this combo in person at the Trailerfest Vintage Trailer Rally in South Lake Tahoe! more info  Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts and camping aficionados! We've got a bit of a situation on our hands, and we need your culinary expertise to save the day. Our beloved Vintage Camper Trailers Cookbook is in desperate need of some fresh, tasty contributions to spice up its pages and inspire our community of travelers.  Imagine flipping through the pages of a cookbook tailor-made for adventurers like you, filled with mouthwatering recipes perfect for potlucks, fireside feasts, and those moments when you want to elevate your camping cuisine to gourmet status. Here's the deal: We're looking for your best recipes to fill up our chapters. Whether you've mastered the art of cooking for a crowd, have a go-to campfire classic, or can whip up desserts fit for a queen (or king), we want to hear from you. More info on contributing.  Check out our Cookbook Table of Contents for inspiration:
 If you've got a recipe that deserves a spot in our cookbook, don't hold back! Share your culinary creations and help us preserve the art of camper-friendly cooking for generations to come. Submit your recipes, cooking tips, and stories by [deadline date] to be considered for inclusion. Let's cook up something special together! More info on contributing.  Happy cooking and happy trails, Paul and Caroline Vintage Camper Trailers Cookbook Authors P.S. Have questions or want to chat recipes? Drop us a line—we're always hungry for new ideas! More info on contributing.  Discovering the Omnia Stovetop Oven has been a game-changer for our camping adventures. This Swedish gem, with a history dating back to the 1940s, has become our go-to kitchen tool for baking on the go.  Unveiling the Omnia's Magic - How it Works Crafted from lightweight aluminum and steel, this Swedish marvel transforms any camp stove burner or barbecue into a mini oven, evenly distributing heat for perfect baking results. The steel base plate heats up, creating a whirlwind of hot air surrounding the baking pan. The lid allows steam to escape, ensuring dishes come out just right—never soggy.
Why We Swear by It Compact and Efficient: Despite its small size, the Omnia delivers big on performance. It's easy to transport and store, making it a must-have for any camping adventure. Seemingly similar to a Dutch oven (which we also love), the Omnia is lighter-weight and easier to clean. Invest in a silicone mold or muffin ring for even quicker clean-ups.  Versatility Redefined From Breads to Casseroles: The Omnia adapts to any dish or cooking style, from freshly baked bread to mouthwatering casseroles, making it an indispensable tool for our outdoor kitchen. We like to make cinnamon rolls or other pre-made refrigerator biscuits and frittatas. A cookbook and even a Facebook page are dedicated to its versatility, which knows no bounds. The Omnia stove effortlessly adapts to a wide range of dishes and cooking styles. Get one for yourself with our coupon code (omnia4vintage) and save 20%.    If there's one place that embodies the spirit of relaxation, fun, and good times, it's Camp Margaritaville in Crystal Beach, Texas. Nestled along the picturesque Gulf Coast, this RV park is a slice of paradise for travelers seeking a laid-back atmosphere and endless adventures. Let's take a closer look at what makes this destination so incredible, especially with its upcoming vintage trailer rally, Trailerfestaville, set to sizzle the sands in November 2024.  The Charm of Crystal Beach Crystal Beach, located on the Bolivar Peninsula, is renowned for its pristine beaches, stunning sunsets, and welcoming community vibes. It's the kind of place where worries melt away with the gentle sea breeze, and every day feels like a vacation.  Camp Margaritaville: A Tropical Oasis Enter Camp Margaritaville, and you'll feel like you've stepped into a Jimmy Buffett song. This RV park channels the laid-back, carefree lifestyle of the tropics, complete with swaying palm trees, colorful cabanas, and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to kick off your shoes and unwind.  Vintage Trailer and RV Paradise Whether you roll in with a sleek motorhome, a classic Airstream, or a cozy vintage camper trailer, Camp Margaritaville welcomes you with open arms. The park offers spacious RV sites equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including full hookups, Wi-Fi, and clean facilities.  TrailerFestaville: A Shrimp Boil Extravaganza Mark your calendars (and make your reservations) for November 2024 because Trailerfestaville is coming to Camp Margaritaville, and it's going to be epic! This vintage trailer rally promises a weekend filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and plenty of shrimp boil delights. Picture rows of impeccably restored vintage trailers gleaming in the Texas sun, while the aroma of Cajun-spiced shrimp fills the air. It's a feast for the senses that RV enthusiasts won't want to miss. You don't have to have a vintage trailer to play with us!  Live Music Under the Stars TrailerFestaville at Camp Margaritaville is not just about trailers and food; it's also a celebration of live music and good vibes. The event will feature headliner performances by top-notch bands, setting the stage for unforgettable evenings of dancing under the stars. From classic rock tunes to beachy melodies, the music lineup promises something for everyone to enjoy.   Embrace the Margaritaville Lifestyle Beyond the festivities of Trailerfestaville, Camp Margaritaville offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, cast a line for some fishing, or simply lounge by the pool with a refreshing margarita in hand. Whatever your idea of paradise, you'll find it here at Camp Margaritaville.  Plan Your Escape to Paradise
Ready to experience the magic of Camp Margaritaville for yourself? Start making your travel plans now and get ready to join the fun at Trailerfestaville in November 2024. If you want to come and see the trailers and cars, Open House is FREE to the public on Saturday November 6th 2024 from 10 am to 2 pm. Whether you're a seasoned vintage trailerite, RV enthusiast or a newcomer to the camping scene, you'll feel right at home in this tropical oasis on the Texas coast. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for a getaway you'll never forget. Camp Margaritaville awaits, where every day is a vacation and worries are washed away by the tide. See you at Trailerfestaville! As the summer season draws near and adventurers gear up for their escapades, Verlo Mattress proudly announces its dedication to providing ultimate sleep comfort to RV owners through its premium custom RV mattresses. With a legacy of over 65 years in delivering sleep perfection, Verlo Mattress assures that comfort should never be compromised, even while on the move.  "For over 65 years, Verlo Mattress has been dedicated to delivering sleep perfection, and our custom RV mattresses are no exception," says Dirk Stallmann, President of Verlo Mattress. "Many aren’t aware that the standard mattresses in their RVs can be replaced with ones that offer the comfort of home. We’re here to change that. Our mattresses are designed to ensure that your adventures on the road are as restful as they are exciting."  Adventurers often face the challenge of factory-provided mattresses in their RVs, which frequently lack comfort. Verlo steps in with a solution that maintains quality without compromise. Customizable to fit any RV model, Verlo mattresses guarantee that the RV sleep space is just as inviting as the bedroom at home. "Our ability to customize to your specific needs means we can transform any RV into a haven for restorative sleep," Stallmann adds. "Whether it’s matching the comfort of your home mattress or fitting a unique space, we’re here to elevate your travel experience."  As summer journeys are being planned, whether it involves camping in the mountains, lounging by the beach, or exploring national parks, Verlo mattresses ensure that RV enthusiasts wake up refreshed and ready for the day ahead. Verlo Mattress encourages RV owners to prioritize the quality of their sleep on the road. Upgrading to a Verlo custom mattress not only enhances sleep quality but also elevates the overall enjoyment of RV travel.  About Verlo Mattress Established in 1958, Verlo Mattress has emerged as a forefront provider of custom mattresses, championing quality, comfort, and customer satisfaction. Leveraging over 65 years of experience in the industry, Verlo has perfected the art of crafting mattresses that meet every individual’s unique needs, for both home and RV use. Verlo Mattress is committed to ensuring every customer enjoys the perfect sleep, wherever they may be. To learn more about Verlo Mattress and its RV mattresses, visit verlo.com/rv-mattresses or follow on Facebook and Instagram. Are you a young trailblazer in the vintage camper trailer community, or do you know someone who is? We're on the hunt for the top 40 under 40 individuals who are making waves in this timeless hobby!  Whether you're restoring classic trailers, organizing unforgettable rallies, or providing essential services to fellow enthusiasts, we want to hear from you. Whatever your involvement, even if you are just participating in the hobby and you are under 40 years old, we want to showcase your passion, dedication, and ingenuity. Our upcoming magazine article, "40 Under 40 Vintage Campers," aims to spotlight the vibrant talent and innovation driving our beloved pastime forward. Here's your chance to share your story or nominate someone who deserves recognition.  Don't miss this opportunity to be featured in the VCT Magazine or on the blog. Connect with a broader audience of vintage trailer enthusiasts. Send us your nominations or self-submissions today!
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From the pages of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine With the 100th anniversary of the Tin Can Tourists (TCT) and the induction of (re)founders Forrest and Jeri Bone into the Recreational Vehicle/Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame, I thought I had a pretty good understanding of the origin of the vintage trailer movement. But I wanted to understand more about its roots in the West. So, I set out to learn what I could and put this article together, which includes information about early vintage trailer clubs and events across the country. First, it is important to note the evolution from “old trailer” ownership to “vintage” trailer ownership. People have always treasured, preserved, and restored old stuff, including trailers, just because they liked a particular thing. Then, with the advent of vintage trailer clubs and the internet, it became easier for owners and enthusiasts to find one another.  Trailer owners have long formed clubs. The Tin Can Tourists (TCT) was established in 1919. The TCT’s success encouraged a short-lived competitor, the Automobile Tourists Association, in 1939. Brand-specific clubs emerged later, notably Airstream’s Wally Byam Caravan Club International (WBCCI) in 1955. By 1957, the Travel Trailer Clubs of America gave advice and assistance to the founding of these clubs. There was also club activity specific to teardrop trailers. However I have found none focusing primarily on vintage trailers during the middle of the last century. Still, the idea of getting like-minded folk together was percolating. In 1972, the Recreational Vehicle/Manufactured Housing (RV HOF) Heritage Foundation was founded in Elkhart, IN. It opened its RV HOF Museum in 1991. By 1982, The Period & Classic Caravan Club formed in the United Kingdom. By 1993, Bud and Bettye Cooper gathered fellow WBCCI members to form the Vintage Airstream Club (VAC). So, finally, there was a club focused specifically on vintage trailers.  Todd Kimmel and Kristin Doughty (soon to be Kimmel) decided to take their interest in vintage campers to the next level by starting an all-brand vintage club, The Classic Trailer and Motorhome Club. Its official publication was called “Lost Highways”. It was originally intended to be issued quarterly, but only three issues were printed. The first Lost Highways Rally was held on March 27-30, 1995, in Sarasota, FL. Later that year, and for some years following, a Lost Highways Summer Reunion for the Tin Can Tourists was hosted at St Ignace, MI. A year earlier, Kimmels ran an ad in Hemmings Motor News seeking vintage trailer enthusiasts. Johnny Agnew and Steve Butcher were driving toward Monument Valley, working on the movie, “Pontiac Moon.” They saw the ad, got excited, and contacted Todd. After some back and forth, Johnny decided to hold a Western rally. He used the Lost Highways mailing list for the area and contacted others he knew. In 1996, he located an old campground in Azusa, CA, called Follows Camp. As many as fifteen trailers came, and West Coast rallying began!  Lost Highways and Johnny promoted a couple of more rallies, including one at Newport Dunes. By 1999, Craig Dorsey, one of the attendees, stepped in and hosted several rallies at Newport Dunes. Dorsey was a master of promotion and ran a restoration business, Vintage Vacations, for years. (I’m sure many of us stole time at work to view the Vintage Vacation site and dream). A small group of Newport Dunes attendees, led by Toni and Chuck Miltenberger, founded the Trail to Pismo rally in 2008, which soon became the largest vintage rally in the world. Johnny, Steve, and their crew from Funky Junk Farms are a key part of that rally today.  Dal presented Johnny Agnew with a plaque and induction into the Tin Can Tourists Hal of Fame at Palm Springs, CA in 2024. Meanwhile, on the other side of the Mississippi, VAC President Forrest Bone was seeking a way to gather all vintage trailer brands together. This couldn’t be done under the umbrella of the Airstream-only VAC. He and Bud Cooper discussed this, and Bud mentioned the moribund TCT. Forrest and Jeri researched the copyright, trademark, and related issues, and in 1998, the TCT was reborn. I think it’s fair to say that the TCT’s newsletter, website, social media presence, rallies, area representatives, and the Bones’ endless efforts have served vintage enthusiasts well and have given many the incentive to start local clubs and rallies.  By 1999, sisters and avid fly fisherwomen Maurie Sussman and Rebecca Clarke saw an unmet need. They started the successful Sisters on the Fly. The club is specifically for women trailer owners (many are vintage trailer owners) and hosts rallies nationwide.
Former VAC officer Pat Ewing had been privy to some campfire discussions between Bud Cooper and Forrest Bone at the 1998 Boise VAC Caravan. Pat hosted WBCCI regional rallies and the first Mt. Baker Vintage Trailer Rally at the Deming, WA, Log Show Grounds in 2001. That rally is one of the longest-running vintage rallies, second only to TCT’s Camp Dearborn Rally and Annual Meeting in Michigan. All of these efforts have given birth to a fulfilling pastime for many people and a growing industry that now includes many clubs, vintage-friendly campgrounds; a bi-monthly magazine, Vintage Camper Trailer Magazine, rallies, restoration-themed rallies, and rally promoters; restorers, repairers, and suppliers; and specialized trailer insurers and appraisers. Steve Hingtgen’s Vintage Trailer Supply significantly accelerated and aided the preservation and restoration of vintage trailers. There is currently no one place to discover the beginnings of the vintage trailer movement. Some of you may know of early vintage gatherings and activities I would love to hear about those so I can continue to add to this modest account of the beginnings of our beloved vintage camper movement. |
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