Airstream's historic single-axel models are once again available with updates that bring these iconic travel trailers to the modern marketplace.
Earlier this month, Airstream announced the reintroduction of the Bambi and Caravel models, popular in the 1960s and retired in 2002. To make room in the company’s product line, the Sport line 16-foot and 22-foot trailers were retired, along with the Flying Cloud and some international models, according to the company.
“Airstream wanted to give customers more options in smaller, single-axle travel trailers,” said Matt Rindone, public relations representative for Airstream.
With four lengths to choose from – 16’, 19’, 20’ and 22’ – Bambi and Caravel will appeal to first-time owners and those looking for camping options fora weekend or week-long trips, Rindone said. While both models share some of the same features, the Caravel has upgraded amenities and features, including panoramic windows, optional matching window awnings, a rear bumper, stainless steel rock guards and increased storage capacity to go along with a modern design and color scheme.
And the single-axel design makes these models easy to tow. The Bambi and Caravel models can be towed by a wide range of crossovers, trucks, and SUV’s, which make them more accessible to novice campers and younger buyers. The smaller size makes it easier to navigate in tight spaces and is less disconcerting to a novice RVer.
“Both Bambi and Caravel offer all the comforts of home people expect from Airstream in smaller packages,” Rindone said. “Bambi, in particular, is a great option for first-timers, with storage perfect for weekend and shorter trips. Caravel adds more storage options, allowing for longer trips.”
Bambi Airstream TT owner and dog start their morning on the beach. [Photo/Airstream, Inc.]
Those contemplating a purchase of the newly reintroduced lines can be assured that fuel efficiency meets Airstream’s standards.
“All Airstream travel trailers provide excellent fuel efficiency because of their iconic, rounded aluminum shell,” Rindone explained. “Bambi and Caravel are no exception.”
‘Bambi’ has been a nickname for Airstream travel trailers for decades and earned that moniker on the famous Cape Town to Cairo Airstream caravan trip through Africa, led by Airstream founder Wally Byam. Since then, Airstream has given the ‘Bambi’ nickname to all single-axle travel trailers to denote their lightweight size and durability, and now a line of trailers will carry the Bambi moniker.
The first Caravel travel trailer showcased Airstream’s innovation in lightweight, small-space design, according to corporate information. The Caravel’s name is a nod to Byam’s love for the sea and sailing. After replacing the Bambi in 1965, the 17-foot Caravel was the shortest travel trailer offering through 1968, according to Airstream. The 1965 brochure lists it as “the first travel trailer big enough for a family of six but light enough to be towed with a compact car.”
It had the same quality features and “go-anywhere” construction of a larger Airstream including: two double beds and two optional fold-up bunks, full size Formica topped galley with 3 burner range, full size bathroom with toilet, sink, and shower, table that accommodates 6 and disappears when not in use, and plenty of storage space. In addition, the 1965 Caravel was self-contained with hot and cold water, heat, refrigeration, and Uni-Volt lighting. After the 1969 model change, the Caravel gained a foot and the 18-foot model was offered through 1971.
After these early models, an Airstream travel trailer below 20 feet did not appear again until the Bambi 19 of 1998-2002. In 2002, it was joined by a 16-foot model.
“When it comes to our travel trailer lineup, we have set the bar in regard to design, quality craftsmanship, and staying true to our brand heritage – Bambi and Caravel are no exception,” said Bob Wheeler, President and CEO of Airstream. “With the all-new Bambi and Caravel models, we wanted to honor our roots while offering design-forward, accessible, easy-to-tow travel trailers that will inspire new or experienced consumers to explore the world one highway at a time.”
Those new customers are the millennial generation, who are a growing consumer group. Millennials make up about 25 percent of the population in the United States and are more ethnically and racially diverse than previous generations. Their combined spending totals about $208 billion.
“It’s no secret that millennials will drive the future of the RV industry,” Rindone said. “In general millennials are more focused on experiences and less on material objects. Bambi and Caravel will appeal to a wide spectrum of people, but they are perfect for campers who understand that an Airstream is a portal to experiences and that you don’t necessarily need a bunch of stuff to make memories.”
Bambi and Caravel both come in four floor plans with two new décor options for each model. The Bambi interior centers on bright neutral tones that allow light to bounce around the trailer while the Caravel features a clean, modern palette with bright whites, warm woods, and sharp black accents which all work in unison against the trailer’s silver aluminum backdrop.
Bambi, which starts at $48,900, and Caravel, which starts at $60,900, are available at Airstream dealerships across the country.