If you’ve seen a small trailer that seems to magically expand into a livable camper, you’ve probably seen a pop up camper. These compact, budget-friendly RVs are ideal for weekend getaways, beginners, or anyone who wants to enjoy nature without buying a full-size motorhome.
At Custom-way, we help California RVers with pop up camper repairs, upgrades, and custom modifications. In this post, we’ll explain what a pop up camper is, how it works, and whether it’s the right choice for your camping lifestyle.
🏕️ What Is a Pop Up Camper?
A pop up camper (also known as a folding camper or tent trailer) is a type of towable RV that collapses into a compact, low-profile trailer for easy towing and storage.
When set up at a campsite, the roof and walls “pop up” to create a full-height living space—usually with soft canvas or vinyl sides and hard roof sections.
🔧 Think of it as a hybrid between a tent and a camper trailer: easy to store, but with beds, storage, and sometimes even a kitchen or toilet.
⚙️ How Does a Pop Up Camper Work?
Pop up campers typically fold down for travel and are expanded manually or electrically at the campsite.
Common features include:
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Two pull-out sleeping areas (one on each end)
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A dinette that may convert into a third bed
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Compact kitchen with sink, stove, and fridge
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Optional toilet or shower
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Canvas or vinyl walls with zippered windows
🚗 Why Choose a Pop Up Camper?
✅ Pros:
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Lightweight and easy to tow (can often be towed with an SUV or crossover)
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More affordable than other RV types
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Fits in a garage when folded down
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Great for first-time campers or smaller families
❌ Cons:
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Less insulation than hard-sided RVs
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Canvas material may wear or leak over time
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Takes time to set up and break down
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Limited storage and amenities
🛠️ At Custom-way, we offer canvas repair, roof maintenance, seal replacement, and electrical upgrades for pop up campers.
🧰 What’s Inside a Pop Up Camper?
| Feature | Basic Model | Upgraded Model |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping Space | 2 beds | 2+ beds with foam mattresses |
| Kitchenette | Stove + sink | Stove, fridge, microwave |
| Bathroom | No | Optional cassette toilet or wet bath |
| Power | 12V lighting | 12V + 110V hookups, solar prep |
| Heating/Cooling | Ventilation only | Heater and A/C options |
🔧 Pop Up Camper Repair & Upgrade in California
Pop up campers are simple, but they still need care—especially if you’ve owned one for years. At Custom-way, we can help you with:
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Canvas patching or replacement
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Roof lift system repairs
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Water leak prevention
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12V electrical work and battery upgrades
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Solar installation for off-grid camping
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Custom interior redesign
We provide both in-shop and mobile services anywhere in Southern California.
🚐 Who Are Pop Up Campers Best For?
Pop up campers are perfect for:
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Weekend campers
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Small families or couples
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New RV owners looking to learn
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Campers with limited storage space at home
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People who want a low-budget RV entry point
They may not offer all the luxuries of a Class A motorhome, but they’re hard to beat when it comes to simplicity, price, and pure camping fun.
📞 Need Help With Your Pop Up Camper?
Whether you’re restoring an old pop up camper or upgrading a new one for boondocking, Custom-way can help. From sealing leaks to adding solar panels or fixing broken lift systems, we’ve got the tools and expertise.