In North America, the term
caravan is obscure. A caravan is an RV, and going RVing would be caravanning. Most caravan designs would probably be called a travel trailer, or in some cases a fifth wheel or camper trailer. Caravans can go to
RV parks or some camp sites not trailer parks, which usually communities of semi-permanent structures called
mobile homes. However, sometimes they can be actual collections of trailers with wheels that are very mobile.
Travel trailer In the United States and Canada, the history of travel trailers can be traced back to the early 1920s, when those who enjoyed their use were often referred to as 'tin can tourists'. As time progressed, trailers became more liveable and earned a new name in the 1930s and 1940s, which was the house trailer. In the 1950s and 1960s, the industry seemed to split, creating the two types that are seen today, that of the
recreational vehicle (RV) industry and
mobile home industry. Travel trailers are classified as a type of RV along with
motorhomes,
fifth-wheel trailers,
pop-up trailers, and
truck campers. Smaller travel trailers and pop-ups are still made with touring in mind. These generally are less than long and contain simple amenities. By design, they are lightweight and quick to set up or prepare for travel. Most weigh less than and can be towed with a large car or small truck depending upon its
towing capacity. Lightweight pop-up trailers weighing less than , such as the Combi-camper and Kamparoo can be towed even by small economy cars. Some exceptionally-light travel trailers can be pulled by a motorcycle or even bicycle. Fiberglass body construction entered the U.S. scene in 1971 with the introduction of the first U.S.-produced mini travel trailer, called the Playpac. Since then, moulded fiberglass trailers have gained more popularity due to many factors including durability, lightweight design, modern features and a modern nod to retro chic design. The Playpac, invented by Steven Whysel, was the answer to the needs of the growing horde of VW "Bug" and other small-car owners who wanted a hard-shelled camper, light enough to be pulled by a small car. It came with a private water closet, shower, and the ability to sleep six. Its ultramodern aerodynamic styling and domed skylight by the modernist industrial designer Toshihiko Sakow made it an instant hit. It was short-lived, however (1971–1973), as the first
Arab Oil Embargo and the ensuing major slow-down of RV sales caused it to cease operations. The Boler travel trailer was developed in Canada in 1968, soon joining the Playpac in the U.S. fiberglass light-weight class. The Hunter and Amerigo travel trailers were also available at that time. As moulded fiberglass technology advanced, more companies entered into the market. Key moulded fiberglass innovations made the travel trailers more durable but also lighter which allowed for more luxury amenities. Mid-range travel trailers are long, can weigh or more, and are generally towed with compact pickup trucks and SUVs. They have most of the amenities of the larger travel trailers, but sleep fewer people. travel trailer Larger travel trailers are made with seasonal or full-time users in mind. These generally range from long and contain all the comforts of a luxury condominium. These amenity-laden models can reach or more, requiring a purpose-built tow vehicle, highway tractor or large truck or
SUV. While trailers may weigh in even above that, most long-bed
pickups have a maximum tow-weight of . Multiple televisions and air conditioners are common in units of this size. Slide-out rooms and screen porches add to
livability. By law, travel trailers are limited to of living area, and many models offer exactly that plus any optional slide-outs. travel trailer With all of the disincentives inherent in local government zoning regulations and building codes to affordable, ecological (off-grid) and compact housing solutions, travel-trailers offer a possibility for those considering an ecological full-time home or seasonal cottage. Travel-trailers are often acceptable on flood-plains, areas outside of urban growth limits, et cetera, where regular buildings are not allowed. Among the virtues of a
trailer park are its light infrastructure, low
ecological footprint, minimal land disturbance, abundant permeable surfaces (for stormwater drainage), and ease of site restoration. Some specialized brands of the trailer, such as the hi-lo trailer, have an upper half (slightly larger than the lower half) that can be folded down over the lower half to a total height of about five feet for reduced
wind resistance during travel; these otherwise contain everything other travel trailers have (except for a full-height closet). Innovation in travel trailers is the
hybrid travel trailer, combining the features of a pop-up and a hard-sided trailer. In its camping configuration, one or more bunks fold down from the side with canvas tent covers. When travelling, the bunks fold up, leaving four hard sides. Larger models allow the hybrid travel trailer to be used while "turtled"meaning with the sides up. The primary advantage of a hybrid travel trailer is it offers a greater space-to-weight ratio. A disadvantage is the tent ends are not insulated and are subject to heat loss and condensation. In the United States, it is generally illegal for passengers to ride in a travel trailer, while in motion, unlike horse-drawn trailers and coaches. Triple towing (towing two trailers) is not allowed in some U.S. states, such as
California, and jeep trailers, are built specifically for exploring the extreme backcountry without having the restriction of paved highways or gravel roads. These travel trailers are designed to handle rough terrain. Many off-road travel trailers are equipped with tents, beds, skid plates, large tires and
long stroke independent suspensions,
lift kits, and articulation systems. ==United Kingdom==