What To Look For
Hybrid campers are a blend of pop-up and hard-shell camper trailers. Look for features such as bunk latches, slide-outs, wood floors, two- or three-burner propane stoves and air conditioning or heating for climate control. Brands like Rockwood, Bantam and MaxSport produce hybrids from 18 to 23 feet in length. Accessories and extras include awnings, outside showers and propane tanks.
Common Pitfalls
Hybrids may look like hard-shell RV trailers but they are not. They have canvas fold-out walls that erode over time from exposure to the elements. Be aware that fabric will eventually need replacing as it wears out. Because the bed chambers are next to the fold-out walls, heat retention is problematic during extreme cold weather, something to consider if camping in northern environments.
Where To Buy
Hybrid campers are available at most RV and camper dealers. Camper's World is among the many dealers carrying hybrids. Purchase used hybrids from independent sellers. Look for them on Internet sales sights and in classified ads.
Cost
A base entry-level hybrid will cost around $8,500, while a fully decked out model near $17,000. Slide-outs, where portions of the side of the camper push out for more living space, significantly add to the cost of hybrids. Used models range in price between $2,500 and $10,000 depending on year, make and model.
Comparison Shopping
The Rockwood Roo hybrid comes standard with solid wood panel cabinets and doors, three-burner gas stove, 6-gallon gas water heater, phone jack and a one-piece double sink with cover board, to name a few of the standard options, making it a comfortable choice among hybrid offerings. The Bantam Flier has reinforced wood panel walls, 50 percent thicker than the Rockwood, making it a good choice for cold weather camping, as there is better heat retention. The Bantam comes with the same kitchen and bedding amenities as the Rockwood.
Accessories
Hybrid accessories available include bathroom curtains, external showers, extra ceiling and internal lighting, DVD and CD systems, satellite TV hookups, self-leveling ramps and jacks, radial tires and rear panel lighting systems. Rockwood, Bantam, Jayco, Trail-Lite RV, K-Z, Coachmen RV and Aerolite offer these accessories with their hybrid campers.
Insider Tips
If you are buying a used hybrid camper, take time to research the rigs resale value on sites such as NADA or Kelley Blue Book (see Resources).
