Jayco Outback Swan

Thinking about a wind-up hard-floor camper? Lets take a look at some of the features and benefits of this family favourite design.

We put this camper

trailer under the microscope

T he humble wind-up camper has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity, particularly among families. If a roomy, well-ventilated living and sleeping area, as well as a permanently set-up kitchen and dining room, is on your wishlist, then this style of camper trailer may be the one for you.

The Jayco Outback Swan (shown here) is a great example of the wind-up hard-floor camper with plenty of fantastic features as standard, and a range of optional extras that will take you from camping to glamping, including an external shower, slide- out barbecue, bike racks, TV/stereo sound system and 12V solar power capabilities for recharging on the road.

Most wind-up campers are a relatively quick set-up (often around 10 minutes) plus another 20 minutes if you want to go for the full annexe on longer stays. Where they really outperform other campers, though, is the two double or queen-size beds, which means that everyone will have the same comfortable sleep that they would get at home; and that little experience can be the difference between a good camping trip and a ‘great’ camping trip!

UNDERNEATH Independent Coil Suspension is standard on this Outback Swan, as are drop-down stabiliser legs on each corner, a must for a good, solid set-up. Up front, a large storage boot ensures all your gear is able to travel safely with you on every...

READY TO TOW When all packed up, the wind-up campers’ compact size and height means better rear vision when driving, plus storage is never a problem, whether under your carport or inside the garage.

This kitchen has the works, including fridge, stove top and grill, sink, large bench space, microwave, comfortable dining area and plenty of cupboard and drawer storage. Also notice the handy linen closet which folds down during the pack up.

INSIDE For versatility, a comfortable club-style lounge area for relaxing, that also converts to become a third double bed, is a good feature to consider.