If there have ever been two companies that needed to hook up, few feel like such a natural pairing as Airstream with REI. The two brands synonymous with adventuring outdoors are introducing a 20-foot REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp 20X, and we’re all for this rugged new travel trailer appointed with eco-friendly features designed to take off the rough edges while adventuring by (off)road.
The REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp 20X is nowhere as technologically appointed as the Lightship L1, but like that solar powered recreational adventure trailer, the REI badged Airstream edition can be paired with an optional 360W solar charging system with a lithium battery bank for off-grid power. The small footprint and 3,500 pound base weight means you won’t need a beastly Ford F-250 or RAM 2500 to haul one of these trailers to your favorite campground site – a mid-size SUV or light-duty truck should suffice.
Airstream’s standard X-Package adds a 3” lift kit, off-road tires, and front window solar protection. Only the small green embellishments and REI badge designate this trailer as special from the exterior.
The REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp 20X rear hatch door makes for easy entry and egress in tight quarters.
Compared to Airstream’s stock Basecamp, there is seemingly little difference at first glance between the standard model and this new REI edition. Airstream seems to have eked out an additional 3.5-inches in exterior height, but beyond the REI badge and green-hued detailing, you’d be pressed to notice a difference.
That is until you enter into the interior, where the trailer reveals what makes this worthy of its “special edition” designation, most specifically its larger accommodations credit to the larger 20-foot chassis. A convertible front dinette transforms from dining area into a sleeping or entertaining section with only a few adjustments, offering a camping group of up to four numerous configurable options, as illustrated below:
The 20-foot model’s organic-hued palette applied across many of the trailer’s interior surfaces, fabric, and upholstery detailing lends a contemporary airy vibe, as does the stylish Terrazo interior bath walls hidden behind Green Matrix painted walls. Eco-sourced fabrics and laminates made from post-consumer recycled materials keep things figuratively and literally on the spectrum of green, as does the inclusion of a cutting board sink cover made from recycled paper, and cabinetry crafted from lightweight and sustainably grown wood. The sum of colors and materials makes this our favorite expression of the Airstream lifestyle aesthetic.
An onboard galley is equipped with 2-burner cooktop, a stainless steel sink featuring a graphite black faucet, and pop-up charging ports elevates meal preparation beyond campfire offerings.
REI adventurers likely land in the spectrum of “prepared and organized,” and this model delivers with a built-in floor cooler with drain that can be used for beverages or as added wet storage, a dedicated gear locker, and a 25-piece REI Co-op product kit designed to stow away neatly into custom-designed compartments. Those who like to stay connected even while on break, the trailer is pre-wired for Airstream Connected, a cellular powered Wi-Fi system.
The exclusive product kit includes essential items like dishware, flatware, and storage cubes complementing the REI-specific decor elements, like the birch cabinetry and spruce green accents. An L-track storage system is also situated for easy access and for storing the usual array of gear often brought for outdoor adventuring, including bikes, skis, and kayaks.
A water-saving composting toilet is an optional upgrade, but UV-LED water filtration and a recirculating water heater are standard.
Both the previous available 16-foot REI-Co-op Special Edition Basecamp and this new 20-foot edition are available now, with pricing for the new 20-foot model starting at $62,400. For additional details and specs, go to Airstream.com.
