I say this with ZERO sarcasm, the pop up with no bed slides might be the greatest camper I've ever seen. A lot of manufacturers are tripping over themselves to get the next big thing on the showroom floor so for a company like Rockwood (one of the best imo) to completely flip the script like this is outstanding. I hope it sets off a trend because the concept of a basic car/house/camper/etc is all but dead in a time where we really need them the most.
I had a pop up and wanted to remove the bed slides so it would be easier for me. I sold it before I did. No I have a 1980 Boler Travel Trailer that I'm restoring.
@@mandaloria9761 I restored an 80's popup as my wife and I's first camper, it was actually pretty fun and cheap. We drank the glamping koolaid since then and can't go back, it's too late for us now :)
I agree. I'm already planning some mods in my mind! The cubby across from door will have an AC with a dryer vent and small fan to exhaust the heat. Tray underneath with drain tube. Working on a Murphy bed idea too.
Omg that box one is exactly what I’ve been dreaming of. I’ve had the two beds. I’ve had the bells and whistles in a larger rv, all I want now is simple. A bed, a counter and enough floor for the night time potty 😅. I’m in love ❤ someone finally built the perfect weekender
I really like the first model. Simple and basic for people that already have camping gear and a portable DC compressor refrigerator. Another excellent video, Josh.
So glad to see new versions of my Dad's old pop-up hitting the market! There is a group of campers that has been largely ignored in recent years, the people that just want to get "off the ground." They just want something to sleep in that is raised and a little bit more luxurious than a tent. With the current economic climate, true entry level models could potentially do well. Thanks for taking the time to show us these!
Really like the first one. Just what I want. I grew up camping popups like the second one and have fond memories of camping in the popups. I just need something simple. Nothing fancy. The first one is definitely my fave so far.
Definitely a fan of this concept. Back to the basics approach that is easy on tow weight, which opens a big market in the sense of what vehicles can tow, Easy to set up, more camp site options, and even off grid type of camping. A big factor is the price point. I always called pop ups “Tents off the ground.” They get you off the ground, which in the rain and in the not ideal tent site in a rain storm is huge. Keep these coming Josh. 👍🏻
I just found your channel and come to it to get your opinion on different RVs I feel like you're honest and not afraid to say what you don't like. Alot of RV dealers often put off disingenuous used car dealer vibes but I don't get that with you.
Reminds me of Slim Potatohead. Very basic. No plumbing to winterize. No gas lines. No refrigerator to maintain and replace. Wouldn’t mind seeing this treatment on a A122.
I absolutely love the no slide version. No water or sewage system to fuss with. No bed slides. I have my own portable heater, dc fridge and portapotty. I have solar panels and a Jackery. I agree a table with folding legs would be better. Especially if you have to disassemble the table to crank down the camper. 🤬 Plus, I can buy the darn thing for cash and not put a dent in my savings account. Hopefully there will be some in stock by spring. ❤ My tiny Coachman Clipper is getting a bit long in the tooth.
Love these. Had a pop-up I used for a few seasons. Bought it at 20 years old, did a lot of repair and restore and it did the job...got us off the gourd while beach camping. THIS smaller, no bed slides model is perfect! It's what many people are doing to the older bigger pop-ups...stripping them down to the basics. Glad to see manufacturers are noticing the customers out there who really appreciate these little, pop-up towables and if they wish, can get them new vs having to restore an old one. YES! The single pice door is best!
My first two campers were pop ups and I loved them. They are neat, but basically a glorified tent. No stove, fridge or furnace! A furnace is nice on those days where it just rains all day….everything is damp and running a furnace for 15-20 minutes really helps…..even in July!! I’m sure there will be a market for these, but I’m not a fan of no fridge…..getting ice everyday can be problematic in certain areas, (especially off grid areas) which leads to dicey meat and warm beer and nobody likes warm beer! 😅
The R19OTG is finally a camper that's quick to setup, can easily be pulled by a 6 cyl SUV and will sleep up to 4. I already own most of the stuff that is built into many of the popups. So does anyone who has spent time tenting or converting their SUV/Van. I usually go out alone but my partner won't tent. This meets the need of not having to store all of the camping equipment when tenting. Everything can remain inside the trailer. "Packing" to go will not take a huge amount of time on Friday night because everything except clothes is already packed. This is one of the huge advantages I had when I owned my Class C motorhome. I could pack clothes and prep clothes and non-perishable food on Thursday and then on Friday I only had to pack the stuff from the refrigerator after work and was "out the door." I think this will be a huge hit and expect that it will catch on at that low price point.
Something I would like to see on this is solar prep just because of how hard it is to do wiring cleanly after market on something like this. It doesn't need to be anything crazy a just run of 14 gauge wire from an inlet on the roof to over by the battery box, that would make it trivially easy to throw a few 100 watts of flexable panels on the roof, a basic 30 amp mppt charge controller and 1 or 2 100 ah lithium batteries on the tongue. Now you have something that can run one of those chest style 12 volt fridges, pretty much whatever you want in terms of personal electronics fans and led lights and maybe some electric blankets over night. The thing that's interesting about these units to me is that they are light enough you can tow them with nearly anything. Its kinda a blank canvas for you to modify and outfit for your specific usage. Also the F17OTG is killer. I'd love to have one to go with something like an older 2 door wrangler or other small suv. So much of the stuff targeting that tow capacity limit is ultra expensive high tech ultra off road ultra deluxe no expense spared when you just want something you can take down a dirt road in a national forest area with a vehicle that you didn't have to mortgage your first born to buy.
Bought the 17OTG and really like it. The trailer hitch is light: I can pick up the front hitch - minimal weight on my sedan tow vehicle. Trailer sets up quickly too. Nice inside with large comfy bed, dinette and ample lighting. Solid door is a nice feature. All of this to say, you can't go wrong if you're thinking of getting one. Lightweight and easy to tow. I live in Canada and when it cools down at night I run a small heater off the campsite electrical service.
Pop-ups are great! I have not just fond memories, but actual GOOD memories. "Off The Ground"? Both hilarious AND appropriate! Like a lot of us, I started out in a tent. Then, to get OFF THE GROUND, I bought an old Coleman from a gas station murder hobo......and I thought it was the Taj Mahal! One of tbe brake lights even worked!!!!! After taking my future wife camping and she didn't complain about my dumpy little popup, I upgraded to a Fleetwood Coleman popup with a shoilet! And IT WAS the Taj Mahal. I hope these return to popularity!
What is old is new again. my wife got the love of camping from her parents.we "inherited" in the mid eighties their old Starcraft from the seventies because they bought a new Palomino (it was like the first one you showed). last year was planning on building a teardrop for the wife, but the prices of flat trailers exploded, so bought a 1994 Coleman Destiny with near new canvas ( same floorplan as the second one,except it has the flip down sink). my wife is glad she has the Coleman instead of the teardrop. She is a happy camper.
Woah. I grew up going camping in a small Coleman pop-up. This little one is kinda cool. Never gonna happen but I respect it. Looks like what my wife will want me to live in after the divorce.
I have a serious soft spot for pop ups. Triggers the nostalgia switch for sure. Reminds me of the OLD Jayco my folks and I camped in in the late 70's early 80's. FOND memories. I like this a lot.
My family enjoyed a popup for many years. It had room to sleep 8, but was perfect for a family of 5. We didn’t use the sink or stove top. The domestic fridge never worked. And we used the bathroom facilities at the campground. It fit in a garage stall and was easy to tow with a minivan. Popups are great for a young family. The must have for any popup in my opinion would be adding a simple storage trunk on the front.
The thing we disliked about our popup was taking it down in the rain and getting the beds wet. The straight up one may eliminate that problem. First mod if it isn't already there is a 12v outlet to switch the cooler to a small fridge. Also is there a porta potty cupboard.
Love it!!! Add 12 volt frig/freezer, collapsible sink & water tank with battery operated pump, butane stove, porta potty, solar panels and presto! Whole lotta comfort without the cost. Loved the gas station murdering hobo!!! 😆😆😆
So the pop up you showed first. With the full size mattress in it. If they would make that in the old style dual axle size boxes. Holy crap was that a mouthful. Had that simple potty and a 12 volt compressor fridge the shorty. I'd get rid of my travel trailer in a heartbeat. Maybe say something like that to Rockwood in their ear. I realize this is supposed to be you know back to basics. But these are actually bringing out some good ideas too. It doesn't have to always be glamping and showing off to the other people. When we go camping that's just my hotel room. I always tell people it has my filth in it not somebody else's.
Yes, bring them into your inventory, and I'd even drive cross country to get the simple straight up PoP up if I knew the price. It's just the thing to set up on my land, while building a homestead and small enough that the county won't give me grief over it! :)
My first camper was a 83 palomino pop up. It was so small it had a single bed on one end and a double bed on the other. The top was spring loaded it had a 5 gallon jug under the sink for the hand pump water and a ice chest built in that double a a seat. Took it everywhere I could get my bronco and loved it
If the price is right, that's a smart move. The amount of people on pop up forums that buy really nice trailers then STRIP everything out is high. They take the sinks, stoves, heaters, fridges, bathrooms etc out because they don't want to deal with, want more storage or are scared of propane. It's crazy. Then they wonder why the resale value plummeted when they try to resell it a few years later.
I think if they took the box size of the big tandem axle high wall and made it a bunkhouse with no bed slides they would sell thousands of them. Low profile, easy setup, light enough to minivan/crossover tow and something resembling a bathroom. Sleep a family of 4 in something a Maverick can pull.
I’ve been traveling in a van for seven years and this is the answer I’ve been waiting for. It’s just me, so I don’t need the side tents, just a shelter with a bed. I’ll be getting one of these!
That 190 is the sort of thing I've been talking about for a while now: a popup without having to deal with added setup, weight, and potential leak points of those extend-out bends. The fact that it doesn't come with frills, but still has a little room to add some features is a nice plus. Sure, that dinette table kinda sucks. However, it wouldn't be that hard to make a modification to improve it or just replace it with an alternative table, so I won't take too many points off for that design, though. It's fairly light, too. In fact, it's in the *theoretical* towing capacity for my car, which is kinda cool.
I do wish it has an outdoor shower and railing to set up a grill. Honestly what it has inside is all i want inside. It awesome might have to get myself one
I LOVE the pop up with no fold outs. Agree with you on the moveable table and wouldn't mind if it had sink or few more electric outlets but great size for one person doing weekend camping at a campground with facilities.
Your the only reviewer of this one Josh! Nice work! That 190tg is exactly what we need for the 2205s overflow of sleepers. Ease of setup and 0 complicated systems, easy on the wallet and 1000 times better than a flooded tent👍👍
The 190 would make a nice solo camper especially if it's got enough space to add a little heater diesel or propane. Just for those early/late season trips. Getting back to basics works. Especially if you could mount a bike/sports rack to the top. It's light enough that a minivan/ midsized suv... maybe even a bigger sedan. You don't need much, cooler and a Colman camp stove and that's great for just getting away from absolutely EVERYTHING! leave the cell phone off and find a quiet destination. Come on may! I miss camping!
The first one, w/o the slideouts is EXACTLY what I'm looking for! I only wish it had propane OUTSIDE with a clip-on stove.. but you can do that with an "Coleman" style camp stove. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE! Wish you guys were in CA.
I know that they are stripped down, but I would like to see a heater. Don’t need the other junk, but heater and maybe an AC option, but that’s about it!! Good job Josh.
I am impressed with the little straight up model. I really like it! It’s small, light weight and basic. You get a bed and a porta potty. Now, if you got the popup hard sides, your golden kinda like the popup A-frames, but with vertical sides. Are we may beginning to see the return of cheap little towable units? This is an actually a tough market to be in because it’s extremely hard to keep costs down and build these stout enough to hold up to the standard abuse they will receive and sell enough of these models to make the juice worth the squeeze.
We are a family of 6. We've been going tent camping, and every time we talk about getting a camper. But we dont want an "everything and the kitchen sink" camper. I really really like these!
Having spent most of my summers as a kid in pop-ups; let me tell you that they are a nice middle ground between tent and "rv" camping. Family's first pop-up was a 1976 Starcraft not all that much bigger than what was shown in this video, and we had that for around 8 years. We then upgraded and replaced it in 1998 with Coleman Fleetwood Grandview, and that beauty was a champ; we towed it through all 48 of the continental states. My parents only just sold it about 6 years ago as my father is getting on in years, and they could no longer handle the setup by themselves. Something I loved about those pop-ups, and I'm glad to see returning on the more budget friendly models is the cooler nook instead of a fridge. The Coleman had a hatch one the outside so you could pull out the cooler for picnics without having to worry about setting up just to get your food.
@@JoshtheRVNerd I think we are going to drive up from Toledo to check them out this weekend. Quick question. I noticed the three prong outlets. How does that hook up with electric at a camping site
What would be nice is if they made it 6”-12” longer and on the table put in a sink in it with 2 - 7 gallon water containers 1 for fresh ( with a pump) and 1 for grey water. ( and 2 empty ones to change yourself if needed) Also a small fridge but the solar gotta be big enough to power it. Maybe 2 portable solar screens. ( or solar on the roof) And a small cooktop powered by small propane tanks you could get at Walmart. ( the 1lb ones I think) And a spot for a port-a-potty. You still wouldn’t need tanks. Then you could cook and sleep.
I have been saying I wish they had a pop up with no bed slides and no water tanks. I would like a small window ac unit though. I wonder if you could add one. 🤔
That 190 OTG needs a "XL" version where it fits a proper king bed. That'd be an amazing value proposition for couples that want to "just get out there!"
Ten years in a StarCraft 2107 was cheap to own easy to tow and just enough to make camping fun and exciting. We purchased a mattress storage bag for the pieces of foam and replaced them with queen size air beds that weigh less and deflate for travel. Forty foot 5th wheelers can’t camp at Sylvan lake campground at Custer state park in SD. I will let you research why they can’t get through the tunnels.
I'm liking them, specially the no bed slide one. Admittedly though, I'm a bit spoiled when it come to pop ups have used and camped for years in my parents Coleman from the early 90s, the two things I love about it are the swing level galley instead of the flip over so you don't have to unpack the kitchen every time you move along with the good working height that you wont kill your back using if you have to, and the outside Coleman propane stove top that had it's own drawer slide that you could pull out any time and not have to set up the camper if you wanted a hot lunch on the road. If those features found their way into these tents on wheels, I would be having a very hard look at them.
I actually really like the first one. Simple, likely inexpensive, could do a ton of mods to it. Some off the top of my head could be swap on a maxx fan, definitely change out that table for a free floating one, change out the cooler for a 12V chest fridge on some rails, get a little Mr Heater Buddy if you want some heat in there, axle flip for a little bit of a lift, maybe add a front stabilizing jack or two, figure out an external LED light or two, so many possibilities. If someone wanted AC in this it wouldn't be hard to mod in either. Or just get the EcoFlow Wave and you can have both heat and AC with minimal fuss.
I’m in the process of moving from Florida to Colorado as it’s my dream to head out that way. Stressing out trying to find a place that I can afford to live out there let alone find a job, but this is definitely something I could buy live in at an RV park temporarily Then use it recreationally once I’m able to establish myself when I move.
You are right on the pricing of popups a few years ago. When I was looking for a trailer I would see popups going for over $18k which was just a few less dollars than a regular trailer. Never could understand how come manufactures felt it necessary to over price them.
Pardon my ignorance, but how does the door fit in when the top is down (“road mode”?) If it’s a separate piece, does something else go in the doorway gap?
Great idea and a long overlooked segment. Too often manufacturers are answering questions nobody asked, thankfully this is an answer to one many have asked….not gonna lie though that "gas station murderer hobo" scenario does freak me out 🤪🤣
Ah, pop-ups, the "gateway drug" to all other Rv's!!!!! Thanks for showing these units, Josh, I definitely think there is a resurgence in going back to basics, and entry level-affordability in camping once again.....actually, I have always considered something much like the 1st model, however, with a "hardside" type of application....something simple, yet have four walls of a little more durable material.....kind of on the Trail manor style of design.....I started with tents, then to a a pop-up, and now to a larger hardside towable.....with a 5th wheel probably coming in the future......so it will be interesting to see how these units do! Thanks for showing them to us! All the Best! ~Lou
That's all I need. I don't understand why there aren't more like that available. Some kind of heat source, or heated mattress would be the only other thing I can think of.
IMO, these come pretty close to meeting a market that has been ignored so far, but which is slowly growing - EV camping. While camping with an EV you often want to keep things light, but at the same time have the benefit of having a huge battery that, in some models (like mine) can output a full 120V @ 15A to power your gear for a week (or more). I can camp with a portable electric refrigerator, an induction burner, a kettle, and a small electric grill, along with electric lighting - with no gas (propane or otherwise) or generator required. So I like these because they’re lightweight, have power input with sockets inside, and don’t have any gas hookups. It would be cool if someone came out with a model that was purely electric for EV campers (like me), with a fridge, induction burner built-in, and LED lighting built-in. AFAIK that doesn’t exist - but something like this would allow me to DIY such a setup for myself.
Seeing the solar panel set up and the box under the bed, does it come with the camper or just set up as an example add-on? I like them, but the only thing I wish they had would be a propane furnace. That being said, a small 2-cycle generator would be enough to power an electric heater big enough to keep the chill in check. From us off the beaten path camping people, thanks for a couple great offerings.
I'm a Popup tent trailer guy- I've had 3 of them over the years. I off grid camp, usually on the beaches of Baja Mex... These are the airy-ist and coolest RV's you can get w/o air conditioning... What they LACK (like all U.S. RV's ) is a STOUT frame and STOUT SUSPENSION system... The market finally addresses the suspension issue with after market options (Timbren), but to attach the suspension on cheap ass frame material is worthless....
Josh, this is like the small aluminum boat conundrum; the MFR's have gotten away from the basic format as more and more insisted on Glamping instead of Camping. There is a huge hidden market for the basic affordable article thats been ignored for far too long. These will sell well as long as price points arent in the absurdity realm of affordability vs. format. Currently we own and use a 1996 Fleetwood/Coleman Laredo. Last year was a total of 9000 miles and 78 days of use. This year, we'll be at roughly 6000 miles and about 30 days of use. Behind our V6 Explorer we get 18-23 MPG in tow. Great low profile and easy to tow is what many are looking for.
I say this with ZERO sarcasm, the pop up with no bed slides might be the greatest camper I've ever seen. A lot of manufacturers are tripping over themselves to get the next big thing on the showroom floor so for a company like Rockwood (one of the best imo) to completely flip the script like this is outstanding. I hope it sets off a trend because the concept of a basic car/house/camper/etc is all but dead in a time where we really need them the most.
I’ve wanted something like it for years
I had a pop up and wanted to remove the bed slides so it would be easier for me. I sold it before I did. No I have a 1980 Boler Travel Trailer that I'm restoring.
@@mandaloria9761 I restored an 80's popup as my wife and I's first camper, it was actually pretty fun and cheap. We drank the glamping koolaid since then and can't go back, it's too late for us now :)
I absolutely agree. This is perfect.
I agree. I'm already planning some mods in my mind! The cubby across from door will have an AC with a dryer vent and small fan to exhaust the heat. Tray underneath with drain tube. Working on a Murphy bed idea too.
Omg that box one is exactly what I’ve been dreaming of. I’ve had the two beds. I’ve had the bells and whistles in a larger rv, all I want now is simple. A bed, a counter and enough floor for the night time potty 😅. I’m in love ❤ someone finally built the perfect weekender
🙌🏻
I really like the first model. Simple and basic for people that already have camping gear and a portable DC compressor refrigerator. Another excellent video, Josh.
That's exactly what I thought - little portable fridge unit!
So glad to see new versions of my Dad's old pop-up hitting the market! There is a group of campers that has been largely ignored in recent years, the people that just want to get "off the ground." They just want something to sleep in that is raised and a little bit more luxurious than a tent. With the current economic climate, true entry level models could potentially do well. Thanks for taking the time to show us these!
You got it! :)
oh no the bears
And these have headroom, unlike teardrops.
Really like the first one. Just what I want. I grew up camping popups like the second one and have fond memories of camping in the popups. I just need something simple. Nothing fancy. The first one is definitely my fave so far.
Definitely a fan of this concept. Back to the basics approach that is easy on tow weight, which opens a big market in the sense of what vehicles can tow, Easy to set up, more camp site options, and even off grid type of camping. A big factor is the price point. I always called pop ups “Tents off the ground.” They get you off the ground, which in the rain and in the not ideal tent site in a rain storm is huge. Keep these coming Josh. 👍🏻
Will do!!
Back to basics! Nothing to hate about either of these 2 little cuties! Keeps you dry and off the ground, mission accomplished. 🫡
Not enough there to hate anything lol :)
The box one is perfection
I’m kind of shocked took this long to get something like that in the RV marketplace
I just found your channel and come to it to get your opinion on different RVs I feel like you're honest and not afraid to say what you don't like.
Alot of RV dealers often put off disingenuous used car dealer vibes but I don't get that with you.
I try. I’m not perfect. I call stuff how I see it and welcome dissenting opinions
Reminds me of Slim Potatohead. Very basic. No plumbing to winterize. No gas lines. No refrigerator to maintain and replace. Wouldn’t mind seeing this treatment on a A122.
I’ve been waiting for this. The first little pop up you showcased intrigues me to the point I may have to look a little closer at it.
I absolutely love the no slide version. No water or sewage system to fuss with. No bed slides. I have my own portable heater, dc fridge and portapotty. I have solar panels and a Jackery. I agree a table with folding legs would be better. Especially if you have to disassemble the table to crank down the camper. 🤬 Plus, I can buy the darn thing for cash and not put a dent in my savings account. Hopefully there will be some in stock by spring. ❤ My tiny Coachman Clipper is getting a bit long in the tooth.
That’s how felt about my Kia soul. It did the job but was just getting tired
I like that you can set up the 190OTG Fast without un-hitching.👍👍👍
OOH! Good point!! :)
@@JoshtheRVNerdNow someone will put it up without unhitching. Then drive home with it up 😮😧😖
Love these. Had a pop-up I used for a few seasons. Bought it at 20 years old, did a lot of repair and restore and it did the job...got us off the gourd while beach camping. THIS smaller, no bed slides model is perfect! It's what many people are doing to the older bigger pop-ups...stripping them down to the basics. Glad to see manufacturers are noticing the customers out there who really appreciate these little, pop-up towables and if they wish, can get them new vs having to restore an old one. YES! The single pice door is best!
I really really like the “straight up” one myself
Jayco used to make a no slide camper that was a little longer and allowed a queen bed on one side and a u dinette on the other.
Finally some bang for the buck models that still have unique features - all with less prohibitive prices!🤘
I think that's the idea! TY for watchign
I loved the old palomino base camp, without the slide out beds.
My first two campers were pop ups and I loved them. They are neat, but basically a glorified tent. No stove, fridge or furnace! A furnace is nice on those days where it just rains all day….everything is damp and running a furnace for 15-20 minutes really helps…..even in July!! I’m sure there will be a market for these, but I’m not a fan of no fridge…..getting ice everyday can be problematic in certain areas, (especially off grid areas) which leads to dicey meat and warm beer and nobody likes warm beer! 😅
I try not drink it quick enough to prevent it from getting that way
The R19OTG is finally a camper that's quick to setup, can easily be pulled by a 6 cyl SUV and will sleep up to 4. I already own most of the stuff that is built into many of the popups. So does anyone who has spent time tenting or converting their SUV/Van. I usually go out alone but my partner won't tent.
This meets the need of not having to store all of the camping equipment when tenting. Everything can remain inside the trailer. "Packing" to go will not take a huge amount of time on Friday night because everything except clothes is already packed. This is one of the huge advantages I had when I owned my Class C motorhome. I could pack clothes and prep clothes and non-perishable food on Thursday and then on Friday I only had to pack the stuff from the refrigerator after work and was "out the door."
I think this will be a huge hit and expect that it will catch on at that low price point.
They've been sold out more than in stock since launching here at my home store so I'd say your guess was correct!
How does it sleep 4?
My exact thoughts! It’s like you read my mind.
Something I would like to see on this is solar prep just because of how hard it is to do wiring cleanly after market on something like this. It doesn't need to be anything crazy a just run of 14 gauge wire from an inlet on the roof to over by the battery box, that would make it trivially easy to throw a few 100 watts of flexable panels on the roof, a basic 30 amp mppt charge controller and 1 or 2 100 ah lithium batteries on the tongue. Now you have something that can run one of those chest style 12 volt fridges, pretty much whatever you want in terms of personal electronics fans and led lights and maybe some electric blankets over night. The thing that's interesting about these units to me is that they are light enough you can tow them with nearly anything. Its kinda a blank canvas for you to modify and outfit for your specific usage.
Also the F17OTG is killer. I'd love to have one to go with something like an older 2 door wrangler or other small suv. So much of the stuff targeting that tow capacity limit is ultra expensive high tech ultra off road ultra deluxe no expense spared when you just want something you can take down a dirt road in a national forest area with a vehicle that you didn't have to mortgage your first born to buy.
Bought the 17OTG and really like it. The trailer hitch is light: I can pick up the front hitch - minimal weight on my sedan tow vehicle. Trailer sets up quickly too. Nice inside with large comfy bed, dinette and ample lighting. Solid door is a nice feature. All of this to say, you can't go wrong if you're thinking of getting one. Lightweight and easy to tow. I live in Canada and when it cools down at night I run a small heater off the campsite electrical service.
Pop-ups are great! I have not just fond memories, but actual GOOD memories. "Off The Ground"? Both hilarious AND appropriate!
Like a lot of us, I started out in a tent. Then, to get OFF THE GROUND, I bought an old Coleman from a gas station murder hobo......and I thought it was the Taj Mahal! One of tbe brake lights even worked!!!!!
After taking my future wife camping and she didn't complain about my dumpy little popup, I upgraded to a Fleetwood Coleman popup with a shoilet! And IT WAS the Taj Mahal.
I hope these return to popularity!
Reading this was quite the ride
What is old is new again. my wife got the love of camping from her parents.we "inherited" in the mid eighties their old Starcraft from the seventies because they bought a new Palomino (it was like the first one you showed). last year was planning on building a teardrop for the wife, but the prices of flat trailers exploded, so bought a 1994 Coleman Destiny with near new canvas ( same floorplan as the second one,except it has the flip down sink). my wife is glad she has the Coleman instead of the teardrop. She is a happy camper.
Also, you don't have to pay for an extra storage facility cost. This fits in the regular home garage. Big selling point for me !
Yeah, that’s a really critical factor for some homeowners associations that won’t let you park a trailer around your property
I was thinking bout buying an older one and converting it to this.. Makes alot of sense for just two people..
Woah. I grew up going camping in a small Coleman pop-up. This little one is kinda cool. Never gonna happen but I respect it. Looks like what my wife will want me to live in after the divorce.
So happy he showed us how to open and close it. I'm in a wheelchair and have no idea if I can handle this.
I have a serious soft spot for pop ups. Triggers the nostalgia switch for sure. Reminds me of the OLD Jayco my folks and I camped in in the late 70's early 80's. FOND memories. I like this a lot.
I love seeing comments like this. Ty
❤
My family enjoyed a popup for many years. It had room to sleep 8, but was perfect for a family of 5. We didn’t use the sink or stove top. The domestic fridge never worked. And we used the bathroom facilities at the campground. It fit in a garage stall and was easy to tow with a minivan. Popups are great for a young family. The must have for any popup in my opinion would be adding a simple storage trunk on the front.
The thing we disliked about our popup was taking it down in the rain and getting the beds wet. The straight up one may eliminate that problem. First mod if it isn't already there is a 12v outlet to switch the cooler to a small fridge. Also is there a porta potty cupboard.
Straight up one would definitely be quicker setup/tear down
Love it!!! Add 12 volt frig/freezer, collapsible sink & water tank with battery operated pump, butane stove, porta potty, solar panels and presto! Whole lotta comfort without the cost. Loved the gas station murdering hobo!!! 😆😆😆
So the pop up you showed first. With the full size mattress in it. If they would make that in the old style dual axle size boxes. Holy crap was that a mouthful. Had that simple potty and a 12 volt compressor fridge the shorty. I'd get rid of my travel trailer in a heartbeat. Maybe say something like that to Rockwood in their ear. I realize this is supposed to be you know back to basics. But these are actually bringing out some good ideas too. It doesn't have to always be glamping and showing off to the other people. When we go camping that's just my hotel room. I always tell people it has my filth in it not somebody else's.
Yes, bring them into your inventory, and I'd even drive cross country to get the simple straight up PoP up if I knew the price.
It's just the thing to set up on my land, while building a homestead and small enough that the county won't give me grief over it! :)
We did go with a few shipments of these and they’ve sold out almost instantly
Not surprised they went quickly @JoshtheRVNerd
This is a great way for the first time camper to see if they like it. Or the weekender who wants to get off the ground. I like it
That's the OTG concept! Get "off the ground!"
My first camper was a 83 palomino pop up. It was so small it had a single bed on one end and a double bed on the other. The top was spring loaded it had a 5 gallon jug under the sink for the hand pump water and a ice chest built in that double a a seat. Took it everywhere I could get my bronco and loved it
I love seeing stories like this :)
My favorite pop up was the old Apache hardsides
Been watching the Nerd for a long time Always informative and straightforward This is a camper I could really get into Keep up the fantastic work Josh
Awesome, thank you!
If the price is right, that's a smart move. The amount of people on pop up forums that buy really nice trailers then STRIP everything out is high. They take the sinks, stoves, heaters, fridges, bathrooms etc out because they don't want to deal with, want more storage or are scared of propane. It's crazy. Then they wonder why the resale value plummeted when they try to resell it a few years later.
Pricing on these reminds me of pricing on popups when I got into this 15 years ago
I think if they took the box size of the big tandem axle high wall and made it a bunkhouse with no bed slides they would sell thousands of them. Low profile, easy setup, light enough to minivan/crossover tow and something resembling a bathroom. Sleep a family of 4 in something a Maverick can pull.
I love this so much, I just need to convince my wife.
I’ve been traveling in a van for seven years and this is the answer I’ve been waiting for. It’s just me, so I don’t need the side tents, just a shelter with a bed. I’ll be getting one of these!
Boom!
I like the small pop up for small families and starters.
That 190 is the sort of thing I've been talking about for a while now: a popup without having to deal with added setup, weight, and potential leak points of those extend-out bends.
The fact that it doesn't come with frills, but still has a little room to add some features is a nice plus.
Sure, that dinette table kinda sucks. However, it wouldn't be that hard to make a modification to improve it or just replace it with an alternative table, so I won't take too many points off for that design, though.
It's fairly light, too. In fact, it's in the *theoretical* towing capacity for my car, which is kinda cool.
Ever since those hardside a-frames came out I've wanted that 190
Yes! Stock it! This is what we've been looking for! Need AC!
That little pop up was great!
I like that one
I do wish it has an outdoor shower and railing to set up a grill. Honestly what it has inside is all i want inside. It awesome might have to get myself one
I LOVE the pop up with no fold outs. Agree with you on the moveable table and wouldn't mind if it had sink or few more electric outlets but great size for one person doing weekend camping at a campground with facilities.
Your the only reviewer of this one Josh! Nice work! That 190tg is exactly what we need for the 2205s overflow of sleepers. Ease of setup and 0 complicated systems, easy on the wallet and 1000 times better than a flooded tent👍👍
Lot of reviewers try to only cherry pick what they thing will get them the most views
Thanks for the video. I've been waiting for a real basic camper that makes things simpler!
Glad it was helpful!
The 190 would make a nice solo camper especially if it's got enough space to add a little heater diesel or propane. Just for those early/late season trips. Getting back to basics works. Especially if you could mount a bike/sports rack to the top. It's light enough that a minivan/ midsized suv... maybe even a bigger sedan. You don't need much, cooler and a Colman camp stove and that's great for just getting away from absolutely EVERYTHING! leave the cell phone off and find a quiet destination. Come on may! I miss camping!
Agreed! I love the idea of that "no pop out" version as well.
Front storage trunk or platform would be a nice addition for gear or bikes.
That would be cool!
I absolutely love the small one The only thing missing is a 20 pound propane tank I wonder if you could put solar panels on the roof
Thank you Josh. It was another great adventure.
☺
The first one, w/o the slideouts is EXACTLY what I'm looking for! I only wish it had propane OUTSIDE with a clip-on stove.. but you can do that with an "Coleman" style camp stove. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE! Wish you guys were in CA.
I think it’s great!
These are just what we are looking for!!!!!
Awesome!
Finally something the electric f-150 can tow
not gonna lie.. I almost snorted reading that
Lol@@JoshtheRVNerd
Our first camper was a old pop up and we camped that poor thing to death had so much fun in it miss it
"camped the poor thing to death" lol
I know that they are stripped down, but I would like to see a heater. Don’t need the other junk, but heater and maybe an AC option, but that’s about it!! Good job Josh.
TY Kris
2014 Rockwood Roo 183 was our first camper. Good luck finding 3 queen beds and pulled by an SUV.
lol true
It’s a queen bed and it will easily take an 8” memory foam mattress if you pitch the 4” factory mattress.
that's awesome ty
I am impressed with the little straight up model. I really like it! It’s small, light weight and basic. You get a bed and a porta potty. Now, if you got the popup hard sides, your golden kinda like the popup A-frames, but with vertical sides.
Are we may beginning to see the return of cheap little towable units? This is an actually a tough market to be in because it’s extremely hard to keep costs down and build these stout enough to hold up to the standard abuse they will receive and sell enough of these models to make the juice worth the squeeze.
Yeah stuff is all over the place but really price leading stuff shows back up in a hurry
The only thing missing is a roof top AC unit. Otherwise perfect!
I love that no bed slide!!! Just add A/C!
I think these will stay pretty basic if I had to guess. A towable tent off the ground
The 1640LTD was my first trailer, love the similar floor plan
My 2-dr Jeep can pull some of these! I like camping, real camping but two prosthetic legs make tenting difficult, this is great!
That 190OTG is one of my favorite popups ever I think
@JoshtheRVNerd I would buy one now if it came in an off-road package. I guess I could lift it a few inches.
We are a family of 6. We've been going tent camping, and every time we talk about getting a camper. But we dont want an "everything and the kitchen sink" camper. I really really like these!
Thanks for sharing!
Having spent most of my summers as a kid in pop-ups; let me tell you that they are a nice middle ground between tent and "rv" camping. Family's first pop-up was a 1976 Starcraft not all that much bigger than what was shown in this video, and we had that for around 8 years. We then upgraded and replaced it in 1998 with Coleman Fleetwood Grandview, and that beauty was a champ; we towed it through all 48 of the continental states. My parents only just sold it about 6 years ago as my father is getting on in years, and they could no longer handle the setup by themselves. Something I loved about those pop-ups, and I'm glad to see returning on the more budget friendly models is the cooler nook instead of a fridge. The Coleman had a hatch one the outside so you could pull out the cooler for picnics without having to worry about setting up just to get your food.
Stock Them. This is exactly what my wife and I are looking for!!!
We did! www.bishs.com/rv-search?brand=Rockwood+OTG
@@JoshtheRVNerd I think we are going to drive up from Toledo to check them out this weekend. Quick question. I noticed the three prong outlets. How does that hook up with electric at a camping site
What would be nice is if they made it 6”-12” longer and on the table put in a sink in it with 2 - 7 gallon water containers 1 for fresh ( with a pump) and 1 for grey water. ( and 2 empty ones to change yourself if needed)
Also a small fridge but the solar gotta be big enough to power it. Maybe 2 portable solar screens. ( or solar on the roof)
And a small cooktop powered by small propane tanks you could get at Walmart. ( the 1lb ones I think)
And a spot for a port-a-potty.
You still wouldn’t need tanks.
Then you could cook and sleep.
Crafty!
I have been saying I wish they had a pop up with no bed slides and no water tanks. I would like a small window ac unit though. I wonder if you could add one. 🤔
That 190 OTG needs a "XL" version where it fits a proper king bed. That'd be an amazing value proposition for couples that want to "just get out there!"
Ooohhh…
I’m kinda liking those.
Ten years in a StarCraft 2107 was cheap to own easy to tow and just enough to make camping fun and exciting. We purchased a mattress storage bag for the pieces of foam and replaced them with queen size air beds that weigh less and deflate for travel. Forty foot 5th wheelers can’t camp at Sylvan lake campground at Custer state park in SD. I will let you research why they can’t get through the tunnels.
lol I've seen the videos of things like tunnel crashes and "can opener bridges"
Hey those are SO much better than a tent and given the weight heck hook it up the family sedan and head to the mountains.
Yeah it's old school back to basics here
I love the R16OTG layout. I would totally buy it.
Thank you for watching!
I would love the 160 with just one slide and a smaller seating area.
Are those the shipping wheels or the permanent ❓❓❓Kinda small.
Apologies I don't recall. It's quite possible those are shipping wheels since popups often ship on double decker flatbeds like car haulers
I'm liking them, specially the no bed slide one. Admittedly though, I'm a bit spoiled when it come to pop ups have used and camped for years in my parents Coleman from the early 90s, the two things I love about it are the swing level galley instead of the flip over so you don't have to unpack the kitchen every time you move along with the good working height that you wont kill your back using if you have to, and the outside Coleman propane stove top that had it's own drawer slide that you could pull out any time and not have to set up the camper if you wanted a hot lunch on the road. If those features found their way into these tents on wheels, I would be having a very hard look at them.
Coleman popups really were about the best out there
I actually really like the first one. Simple, likely inexpensive, could do a ton of mods to it. Some off the top of my head could be swap on a maxx fan, definitely change out that table for a free floating one, change out the cooler for a 12V chest fridge on some rails, get a little Mr Heater Buddy if you want some heat in there, axle flip for a little bit of a lift, maybe add a front stabilizing jack or two, figure out an external LED light or two, so many possibilities. If someone wanted AC in this it wouldn't be hard to mod in either. Or just get the EcoFlow Wave and you can have both heat and AC with minimal fuss.
I actually had a similar thought - buy basic and mod it up
They do fit inside garages. No high storage fees.
yeah great for HOA's
I love pop up campers it sucks that they are going away but I am glad that you did a video on them
Rockwood still cranking them out but most others have abandoned the market segment
I’m in the process of moving from Florida to Colorado as it’s my dream to head out that way. Stressing out trying to find a place that I can afford to live out there let alone find a job, but this is definitely something I could buy live in at an RV park temporarily Then use it recreationally once I’m able to establish myself when I move.
Good luck!!
You are right on the pricing of popups a few years ago. When I was looking for a trailer I would see popups going for over $18k which was just a few less dollars than a regular trailer. Never could understand how come manufactures felt it necessary to over price them.
Yeah we’ve seen that happen at my home store
One of those is exactly what I would be interested in....if the $ is right of course
Pardon my ignorance, but how does the door fit in when the top is down (“road mode”?) If it’s a separate piece, does something else go in the doorway gap?
No pardon required. Asking is how we learn
It actually stores up on the ceiling. There are some straps that hold it there
You beat me to it, “I’m down with OTG (yeah you know me)” 😂 pass the Salt-n-Pepa 👍🏻
😆
Great idea and a long overlooked segment. Too often manufacturers are answering questions nobody asked, thankfully this is an answer to one many have asked….not gonna lie though that "gas station murderer hobo" scenario does freak me out 🤪🤣
lol I get it :)
Ah, pop-ups, the "gateway drug" to all other Rv's!!!!! Thanks for showing these units, Josh, I definitely think there is a resurgence in going back to basics, and entry level-affordability in camping once again.....actually, I have always considered something much like the 1st model, however, with a "hardside" type of application....something simple, yet have four walls of a little more durable material.....kind of on the Trail manor style of design.....I started with tents, then to a a pop-up, and now to a larger hardside towable.....with a 5th wheel probably coming in the future......so it will be interesting to see how these units do! Thanks for showing them to us! All the Best! ~Lou
lol that’s always kinda how I saw popups too
That's all I need. I don't understand why there aren't more like that available. Some kind of heat source, or heated mattress would be the only other thing I can think of.
great video josh
IMO, these come pretty close to meeting a market that has been ignored so far, but which is slowly growing - EV camping. While camping with an EV you often want to keep things light, but at the same time have the benefit of having a huge battery that, in some models (like mine) can output a full 120V @ 15A to power your gear for a week (or more). I can camp with a portable electric refrigerator, an induction burner, a kettle, and a small electric grill, along with electric lighting - with no gas (propane or otherwise) or generator required.
So I like these because they’re lightweight, have power input with sockets inside, and don’t have any gas hookups. It would be cool if someone came out with a model that was purely electric for EV campers (like me), with a fridge, induction burner built-in, and LED lighting built-in. AFAIK that doesn’t exist - but something like this would allow me to DIY such a setup for myself.
Never throw matching these up with EVs but.. yeah
Actually
You nailed it
I like that straight up design, that is more my style of camping. quick set-up hunt camping.
That's it!
Is there a 12V outlet near that cubby for a compressor cooler?
It's been a hot minute but as I recall you can basically run an extension cord into the RV but that's about it
I love that camper with no bedwings.
I do as well
Hopefully it means rockwood will keep making pop ups if they are coming out with new models.
Love rhe basic , BUT they should have an option for a small 110 ac for summer use if you so desire
Nice set up but it has to have an A/C especially in Florida. It also needs a small refrigerator or an option to add one.
Those features will become available in their next step up series thankfully
Seeing the solar panel set up and the box under the bed, does it come with the camper or just set up as an example add-on?
I like them, but the only thing I wish they had would be a propane furnace. That being said, a small 2-cycle generator would be enough to power an electric heater big enough to keep the chill in check.
From us off the beaten path camping people, thanks for a couple great offerings.
That was just a quick sample
I'm a Popup tent trailer guy- I've had 3 of them over the years. I off grid camp, usually on the beaches of Baja Mex... These are the airy-ist and coolest RV's you can get w/o air conditioning... What they LACK (like all U.S. RV's ) is a STOUT frame and STOUT SUSPENSION system... The market finally addresses the suspension issue with after market options (Timbren), but to attach the suspension on cheap ass frame material is worthless....
Josh, this is like the small aluminum boat conundrum; the MFR's have gotten away from the basic format as more and more insisted on Glamping instead of Camping.
There is a huge hidden market for the basic affordable article thats been ignored for far too long.
These will sell well as long as price points arent in the absurdity realm of affordability vs. format.
Currently we own and use a 1996 Fleetwood/Coleman Laredo. Last year was a total of 9000 miles and 78 days of use. This year, we'll be at roughly 6000 miles and about 30 days of use. Behind our V6 Explorer we get 18-23 MPG in tow.
Great low profile and easy to tow is what many are looking for.
The aluminum boat parallel is really good actually..
Neat camper and great for a solo camper with the first one.
Agreed!