If you’ve been on the blog long enough, you know how much I love boondocking. For you new readers, welcome and check out my other posts on dispersed camping while you’re here.
It’s one of my favorites because it’s truly self-sufficient. Sure, you’ll wonder what you’ll do all evening (probably just go to bed early), and you’ll have to get used to skipping showers sometimes, but it’s worth it every time.
I realize I’ve never introduced you to my favorite dry camping travel trailers. Whether I own or have rented or borrowed these trailers in the past, I’ve driven them all, and let me tell you, they are boondocking-ready.
Your next purchase is right around the corner!
Top Traits Your Dry Camping Trailer Needs
Before you can start your shopping, you need to know what you’re looking for.
Dry camping trailers should have these traits in common to maximize your time out in the middle of nowhere, hookup-free.
Great Gas Mileage
This one is a biggie. Although dispersed camping tends to veer toward more familiar territory on public land, the places you stay when boondocking can be unfamiliar territory. You might not see a gas station around for miles, so a camper that goes longer on the road without fill-ups is ideal.
Huge Tanks
Freshwater, graywater, blackwater: the bigger the tanks at your disposal, the better.
Having a large freshwater supply prevents you from having to lug huge jugs of water on your travel trailer. You also don’t have to worry about filtrating lake or pond water to make it potable.
You need a huge graywater tank for all the sink waste you’ll inevitably make, but perhaps most important of all is the blackwater tank. Yep, it’s no one’s favorite part to talk about, but we all have to deal with ours.
Access to dumping stations might be less frequent than you’re used to when dry camping, so a sizable tank will prevent emergencies where you have to dump because your tank can’t take anymore.
Solar Power
Listen, I love boondocking, but sometimes, you wish you had a little bit of power.
With solar panels on your travel trailer, you can. Just park your vehicle outside on a sunny day, and voila, free, renewable energy, no hookups required.
You might have enough juice to run your hairdryer or cook a meal.
Cargo Room
My dry camping adventures have been short and sweet, but some people plan longer-term boondocking trips. This is when you need cargo space, and lots of it, wherever you can get it, to store clothes, supplies, and gear.
12-Volt Appliances
If possible, it helps when shopping for a travel trailer if it uses predominantly 12-volt appliances and lighting. And if you can’t swing that, purchase as many appliances as possible that use propane.
A 24-volt system might be the standard nowadays, but it requires more power than you can reasonably provide.
Composting Toilet
While I guess you can say this is optional, I recommend a composting toilet over one that uses water. I think you get it by now that water isn’t always plentiful when dry camping, so using less of it when going to the bathroom will save the scarce supply you’ve got.
Top Travel Trailers for a Self-Sufficient Camping Experience in 2024
Alright, it’s time to get out there and camp! Here are my favorite travel trailers for safely boondocking for days at a time.
Living Vehicle 2024 HD Pro Trailer
That’s right, I bought into the hype. And yes, I’m so glad I did, because the Living Vehicle 2024 HD Pro Trailer is everything you’ve heard and more.
Let me just explain that this is not your average travel trailer. It’s an ultra-luxury model. Everything about this vehicle, from its high-end materials to its insanely good features might make you never want to go back home again. This will be your new home.
The trailer includes a 42-inch 4K TV, an eight-foot patio shelter, a 1,500-pound folding patio deck, a 13-cubic-foot fridge that runs on solar, a full bathroom with a China toilet, and–this is my favorite part–an in-vehicle dishwasher.
That’s right, I said a dishwasher.
I mean, have you ever heard of an RV that comes with a dishwasher, let alone a travel trailer? Neither have I.
So yeah, you might be camping out in the middle of nowhere on your next adventure, but I wouldn’t exactly say you’re leaving creature comforts behind.
Of course, I’m not reveling in the Living Vehicle HD Pro Trailer just because it’s beautiful. I mean it is, it really is, but we’re talking about dry camping here.
This solar-ready camper has four kWh packs to select from with different wattages. I prefer the Max, which uses 178 watts and can run for 101.1 days without solar.
Oh, and did I mention you can configure your living space with some very creative floor plans? You can choose a mobile office layout or one with larger beds.
Mission Overland Trailer
The Mission Overland Trailer is like the Swiss Army knife of trailers, but for your outdoor adventures. Imagine having a trusty sidekick that’s always ready for action when you decide to hit the road less traveled. This rugged trailer is designed for those who crave both comfort and durability in their off-road journeys.
But what sets the Mission Overland Trailer apart is its adaptability. Whether you’re a hardcore off-roader or someone who enjoys a bit of glamping, this trailer has you covered. With customizable options for add-ons like solar panels, extra storage, and even a pop-up tent, you can tailor it to suit your specific needs.
When it’s time to unwind, the Mission Approach, pictured above, takes care of your comfort in style. The Truma Heating System wraps you in warmth, making chilly nights feel like a distant memory. And for those balmy days, the Dometic Air Conditioning creates an oasis within your mobile haven, ensuring you stay cool and collected no matter the outside temperature.
Step inside, and you’ll find more than just a sleeping space. With the capacity to accommodate 4-5 adventurers, it’s a social hub on wheels. The interior unfolds into a haven of convenience, featuring a toilet, shower, and a full pop-up roof that brings the outside in. With an impressive 7 feet of standing room, this trailer is your personal sanctuary on the road.
But it’s not just about the interior; the Mission Approach extends its hospitality to the great outdoors. Picture yourself relaxing under the expansive 270-degree awning curbside or taking advantage of the exterior shower and awning streetside – because the best moments often happen outside the four walls.
Rugged and reliable, this overland marvel cruises through challenges with its HD Timbren Suspension, promising a smooth ride even when the path gets rough. Weighing in at 4000 lbs, it’s the Goldilocks of trailers – not too heavy, not too light, just right for the perfect balance of sturdiness and agility.
In essence, the Mission Approach is not just a trailer; it’s a travel companion that brings together comfort, technology, and the thrill of the open road. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, conquering mountains, or simply seeking solace in nature, this trailer is your invitation to redefine what it means to roam. So, buckle up and let the Mission Approach turn your next adventure into an unforgettable journey.
Outdoors RV Blackstone
Outdoors RV is an unsung hero if you ask me. Their campers and travel trailers are exceptional, redefining your living experience when adventuring. The MTN Series’ Blackstone is especially excellent.
I chose the 250RKS floor plan, but there are enough of ‘em that you can experience life in the Blackstone however you like.
I immediately appreciated how much sleeping and storage space this trailer has, with a full linen closet and pantry shelves. The skylights are pretty, and I love how this camper is just cozy enough for my husband and I.
So, let’s get into what makes it such a great dry camping trailer. For starters, the underbelly is insulated, heated, and enclosed. I like camping beyond the traditional season sometimes, so if you’re like me, you’ll appreciate this underbelly when your feet don’t freeze as you walk across the floor.
The 80-gallon freshwater tank, XL furnace, 50-gallon blackwater tank, and 40-gallon graywater tank will help you live off the land longer without needing hookups.
And, although not included by default, you can add one to three solar panels if you want. When I borrowed this vehicle from a buddy for a weekend, they had selected three solar panels. Hubby and I got to try the solar energy, and I was greatly impressed.
If you’re going to splurge on anything else, let it be the No Boundaries off-grid battery pack. Yes, you should spend on that even more so than the 60-inch by 80-inch premium mattress or fireplace.
The battery pack can hold four six-volt batteries, making it a perfect accompaniment for your dry camping adventures.
Opus OP 15
Stepping inside reveals an intelligently designed interior, harmonizing comfort with functionality. With a sleeping capacity tailored for couples or families, the OP-15 becomes a versatile retreat. Smart storage solutions make organization a breeze, turning the trailer’s interior into a cozy home away from home.
What truly sets the OPUS OP-15 apart is its outdoor kitchen, featuring a slide-out stove and sink. This mobile culinary center turns cooking into a delightful experience amidst nature, creating memories around the joy of shared meals beneath the open sky.
Now, let’s talk specifications. With a dry weight of 5159 lbs and a GVWR of 6393 lbs, the OP-15 strikes the perfect balance between sturdiness and maneuverability. It sleeps four adults comfortably, providing ample space for a group of friends or family to bond over shared adventures. The inclusion of a full bathroom and shower adds a touch of luxury to your camping escapades, ensuring you stay refreshed even in the heart of nature.
The OPUS OP-15 takes comfort to the next level with a heater, AC, TV, and a full kitchen. Regardless of the weather or location, you’re equipped for cozy nights, cool days, entertainment, and delightful meals on the go.
Airstream Basecamp
I know, I know, Airstreams are way overpriced. But the Basecamp is boondock-friendly in a way you wouldn’t have expected an Airstream to be.
Let me get another thing out of the way. I know this travel trailer looks tiny, but it has room for four people. Hubby and I have occupied the Basecamp several times over, and we’ve both agreed that we have plenty of space for just the two of us. You could fit a whole family in there comfortably.
You will have to upgrade to the Basecamp X-Package to get your hands on the bulk of the dry camping features, like heavier-duty tires and higher road clearance. If you’re curious about off-roading, I say do it, but you can skip these features if you mostly stick with dispersed camping at parks.
I know this trailer doesn’t seem like it would have much space, but it does, thanks to more than 125 inches of cargo depth. Some of the storage space is in crafty locations, like rear hatches, but it’s there.
This Airstream also has a solar pre-wire kit and an outdoor shower. Due to its size, that’s the only shower available, but it’s better than none. If you have to choose between showering outside and not showering at all, you’ll shower outside.
My only comment is I wish the tanks were bigger. The freshwater tank is only 21 gallons, and there’s no gray water tank, just a 24-gallon wastewater tank.
Rockwood Geo Pro
Unleash your wildest camping plans with the Rockwood Geo Pro, a travel trailer I got to rent for a long weekend. I haven’t stopped thinking about it since, so it might be one I have to own sooner than later.
The Geo Pro is well-sized at 14 feet, 11 inches for the G14D floor plan, the one I rented. This one has a 20-gallon freshwater tank, which is great, and a six-gallon graywater tank, which is not so great. There is no blackwater tank.
Solar panels are included, and you can pay to add on a second panel. That was there when I rented the Geo Pro, and its solar energy is great. Dual LP tanks, a 12-volt Smart Entertainment TV and stereo, a 12-volt fridge, and a Shower Miser Water Saver are features you need when dry camping.
Wrapping Up
I love dry camping, and the right travel trailer makes all the difference. I understand that choosing a new trailer is a tough decision, so I hope you rent or borrow these vehicles if you get a chance and try them out before committing.