Budget-Wise Camping
If you've done a fair share of tent camping, these rigs are going to feel like the Ritz-Carlton. Still, most are outfitted with only the basic camping equipment: stove, fridge, beds and storage areas. They use the same canvas and screens as most pitch tents, so they have limited privacy in the campground and, when confronted by rain and windy conditions, are less comfortable than their solid-sided counterparts.

Still, the pop-up folding camping trailer is one of the best introductions into the world of trailer camping. The models in this group are inexpensive, easy to use, simple to tow and more than capable of offering a pleasurable outdoors experience for the entire family.

Compact Camping Concepts
Notables - As its name suggests, this micro tent trailer is really a rolling camping box topped by a nylon folding tent. Still, its quick setup and simple operation is perfect for campers who have tired of on-the-ground tent camping yet want to maintain a true wilderness experience. It is perfect for towing behind small cars and light SUVs.

For the really adventuresome do-it-yourselfer, the company offers an 85-page, step-by-step manual for those who want to build their own compact camper.

Specifications
Vehicle Type: Folding/pop-up camping trailer Model: Explorer Box
Price: Starting at $3,499
Sleeping Capacity: Two
GVWR (pounds): 1,000
Dry Weight (UVW) (pounds): 400
Hitch Weight (pounds): 70-100
Net Carrying Capacity (pounds): 600
Traveling Length: 10'
Campsite Length: 10"
Travel Height: 50"
Campsite Height: 98"
Traveling Exterior Width: 62"
Campsite: 106"

Jayco
Notables - As Jayco's entry-level models, the Jay Series comes with a wide range of amenities. These rigs are designed to meet the needs of even the most selective outdoorsmen and their families. They are built with wall-to-wall vinyl floors, brushed nickel hardware and granite-inspired countertops.

Standard equipment includes leveling jacks, privacy curtains, a mildew-resistant aluminum ceiling and a carryout dinette table. The Customer Value package includes a 2-cubic-foot, three-way refrigerator, self-storing awning and a water purification system.

Specifications
Vehicle Type: Folding/pop-up camping trailer
Model: Jay Series
Price: Starting at $6,843
Sleeping Capacity: Five to eight (depending on model)
GVWR (pounds): 2,000-2,950
Dry Weight (UVW) (pounds): 1,380-1,885
Hitch Weight (pounds): 165-205
Net Carrying Capacity (pounds): 620-1,065
Traveling Length: 11'10"-16'2"
Campsite Length: 16'2"-23'4"
Travel Height : 53"-56"
Campsite Height: 102"-104"
Exterior Width: 85"
Fresh Water Capacity (gallons): 17
LPG Tank (gallons): 20

Forest River
Notables - This may be an entry-level pop-up trailer, but it is certainly not one short of amenities; standard equipment includes a three-burner indoor range, large built-in icebox and an easily deployed awning.

Bed mattresses are made of high-density foam, and tinted vinyl windows enhance privacy. For outdoor cooking, the trailer is equipped with an outside gas grill. Options include a forced air furnace, a shower/cassette toilet combination and an overhead kitchen pantry.

Specifications
Vehicle Type: Folding/pop-up camping trailer Model: Rockwood 1910, Freedom Series
Price: Starting at $8,170
Sleeping Capacity: Six
GVWR (pounds): 2,341
Dry Weight (UVW) (pounds): 1,719
Hitch Weight (pounds): 241
Net Carrying Capacity (pounds): 434
Traveling Length: 15'11"
Campsite Length: 20'2"
Travel Height: 57"
Campsite Height: 6'6"
Exterior Width: 85"
Fresh Water Capacity (gallons): 20
LPG Tank (gallons): 20