Airstream’s legacy began with a simple yet revolutionary idea—creating lightweight, streamlined travel trailers that allowed people to explore the world in comfort. That vision took shape in the 1930s with Wally Byam’s first trailer, the Torpedo, a plywood teardrop camper that laid the foundation for everything Airstream would become. This early design, crafted by hand and towed behind a car, was the precursor to the brand’s signature aluminum-clad trailers that would define the future of road travel.
Fast forward nearly a century, and Airstream continues to innovate while staying true to its adventurous roots. One of its modern interpretations of compact, efficient travel is the Basecamp, a model originally introduced in 2007 as Airstream’s take on the teardrop trailer. Designed to be lightweight and fully equipped, the Basecamp paid homage to the Torpedo’s simplicity while incorporating modern comforts. The concept was refined over the years, leading to the launch of the 2016 Basecamp 2.0, complete with an onboard bathroom, expanded kitchen space, and upgraded appliances. Its combination of durability and versatility made it an instant success, and it remains one of Airstream’s most popular models today.
Now, Airstream is once again looking to the future with its latest innovation: an electric travel trailer. As the industry moves toward sustainable solutions, Airstream is leveraging its expertise to introduce cutting-edge technology that enhances efficiency and towability. While details are still unfolding, the new electric model represents Airstream’s commitment to blending classic design with modern advancements, just as it has done since the days of the Torpedo.
(Trailer is seen here with original Masonite exterior)
From Wally Byam’s handcrafted plywood trailer to today’s state-of-the-art electric models, Airstream continues to redefine what it means to travel in style, comfort, and innovation—proving that even the most iconic legacies can evolve with the times.
2025 Airstream Basecamp – All Electric
A standard Basecamp 20 starts at $56,900 and the Airstream X package costs $3,000. So, you’re at $59,900 before the all-electric stuff. That means Airstream says that 10.3 kWh of batteries are worth $17,000.
