Author
Graham Hiemstra
Airstream is one of those rare brands that seem to appeal to just about everyone these days. The iconic Space Age silver bullet trailers have taken over the growing glamping market. Boomers froth with nostalgia on sight. Even streetwear stans can cop a Supreme edition travel trailer. And with today’s release of the REI Co-op Special Edition Basecamp Trailer, complete with 25-piece camp gear kit, deep pocketed outdoorists can get in on the action, too.
Responding to the Covid-fueled trend of “vehicle-based camping” that falls somewhere between overloading and conventional KOA-style car camping, this unique collaboration is well timed and sure to be gladly welcomed by enthusiasts of both storied brands. (For the initial release, orders are open exclusively to REI Co-op members.)
The all-new REI x Airstream collab represents the first time the 91-year-old trailer maker has issued a special edition of its 16-foot Basecamp model. As such, no corners were cut in the customization. Inside you’ll find fully a custom interior featuring sustainable, stain-resistant fabrics from Knoll and laminates made from 100% recycled materials, built-in cabinetry crafted of lightweight birch plywood, and a covetable couch area capable of sleeping two adults.
Additional storage is thoughtfully integrated throughout, including wall-mounted L tracks and a special floor-mounted bicycle rack system (not pictured). Each trailer comes stocked with a 25-piece product kit, including REI Co-op branded items and gear from partner brands, including camp chairs, folding table, and OXO camp kitchen set.
As REI Co-op Creative Director Scott Mosher puts it, “everything you need to take a hot shower, prepare a meal, get a good night sleep, and get up and do it again the next day.” Yes, there is a shower and optional composting toilet (an Airstream first).
The exterior is exactly as you’d expect from an REI edition Airstream—a burly stainless steel shell with wraparound “panorama” windows with an upgraded 3” lift kit and optional roof-mounted solar system.
When asked to sum up the collaboration in one sentence, Airstream CEO Bob Wheeler said their team “focused on functionality, sustainability, and how we can allow people to get further from the asphalt and stay there longer.”
REI Co-op + Airstream Special Edition Basecamp Travel Trailers are hitting dealer lots as soon as next week, so surprinsgly, there’s no months-long wait for this rare collab. The only question that remains is, who’s got $52,900 I can borrow?
Published 07-28-2022
