When we launched Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine back in 2011, we had no idea just how big this little hobby would become—or how much joy it would bring into our lives. What started as a way to share our love of vintage trailers has grown into a nationwide community of passionate enthusiasts who gather to celebrate the past, make new memories, and welcome anyone who shares a love for these rolling works of art.
Originally shared in 2016—and still true today:
“I really think this vintage camper trailers thing may be catching on.”
And wow, were we right!
Back then, our fall calendar was packed with rallies, and we were doing everything we could to attend, photograph, and share these incredible gatherings in the magazine. We also leaned on contributors around the country to help us bring even more stories to our readers. That spirit of collaboration is still a huge part of what we do.
Caroline and I were busy—we’d just hosted the Trailerfest Rally (which began with 15 friends and had already grown dramatically), we released our first book, and were working with the California Automobile Museum on a vintage trailer exhibit. At the same time, we were advocating for better insurance options for vintage trailer owners and encouraging others to host rallies of their own.
Our advice then, if you wanted to host a rally, holds today… Keep it simple. Pick a date. Find a spot. Invite a few friends. You don’t need a fancy trailer, a big budget, or a lot of experience. Post it for free online and in the magazine. A potluck and a Saturday open house are all it takes to bring folks together. Whether your rally stays a casual campout or evolves into something bigger—with t-shirts, bands, and food trucks—it’s all about building connections.
“It’s the trailers that bring us together, it’s the people that keep us coming back.“
That message from 2016 still holds up today. Whether your trailer is polished to perfection or still a work in progress, there’s a place for you here. We’ve never cared about what brand your trailer is, how old it is, or whether it’s “finished.” What matters is your enthusiasm and willingness to come out and join the fun.
From the first issue of VCT magazine in 2011 to today, we’ve always believed that vintage camper trailers are more than a hobby—they’re a lifestyle and a way to connect with others who love nostalgia, craftsmanship, and good old-fashioned fun.
So, whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or you’re just now discovering this world, welcome. The road is wide open, and there’s always room for more in the vintage trailer family.
—Paul & Caroline
Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine
