As Bob Dylan so aptly sang 44 years ago, "The Times They Are A-Changin'." Gasoline then was around 27 cents a gallon. The global effects of greenhouse gases and our pollutants were little more than hypothetical conjecture, a theory on the realm of scientific fiction and not yet fact. Oh yes, how times have changed.

Human society will, of course, need to adapt, but that does not mean we must batten down the hatches and lock our doors in the hope that the worst will pass us by. We will continue to enjoy our pastimes and, for many Americans, that includes heading out into the wilderness for one of our most treasured recreations-camping.

Experiencing a night around a crackling campfire-once, twice, a childhood's worth-makes one understand our connection with the outdoors is more than a vacation, it is a necessity. Air, food, water, camping: the four essentials of life.

Whether or not you believe climate change is on the horizon or already here, gas pump shock is a reality, and the continual climb of fuel prices is threatening the traditional RV family camping trip with extinction. There is, however, a class of camping vehicle that offers a cost-effective alternative to larger RVs-the expandable or folding tent trailer.

A huge leap from pitch-a-tent camping, these specially designed trailers can accommodate two to four adults, with some luxury models making room for up to eight happy campers. These rigs come equipped with an array of amenities, including refrigerator units, stoves and dinettes. Some have fully enclosed bathroom/shower combinations, while others offer a commode closet. They incorporate fiberglass tops with canvas sidings to keep weight down while at the same time ensuring their occupants have a warm and dry abode when weather turns foul.

Once considered little more than a stepping-stone into the world of well-appointed travel trailers and full-chassis RVs, many outdoorsmen and their families are discovering pop-up camping trailers are a wonderful compromise between sleeping on the ground and the fuel-thirsty motorhome.

The folding tent trailer is more economical in both initial purchase price and long-term ownership. Their lightweight construction and collapsible design offers low wind resistance and easy towing. This not only increases fuel efficiency but makes for better travel through crosswinds and up steep grades. They are the perfect camping companion for smaller SUVs, light trucks and many midsized hybrid vehicles that are quickly becoming popular.

In our guide, the selection of pop-tent trailers ranges from a pup-tent-on-a-trailer to upper-end versions that offer luxuries similar to those of their full-bodied counterparts. With the off-road rigs, their cost is more a reflection of their ruggedness than their amenities. The advanced suspension and chassis technology of Adventure Trailers, for example, reveals they are specifically designed for the extreme outdoorsman who wants to venture into the remote wilderness.

At the other end of the spectrum, we list the more lavish pop-top trailers, such as Jayco's Select Series, which offers opulent camping with plush interiors, full-amended kitchens and a selection of creature comforts. A few even incorporate slide-out dinettes, increasing the trailer's living space.

We have also chosen several entry-level pop-ups that are easy on the budget and perfect for the first-time trailer owner. These entry-level trailers, such as Forest River's classic Rockwood 1910, however, are by no means stripped-down models. As our guide reveals, they are well-appointed and exceedingly capable of delivering an enjoyable camping experience.

Whether hitched to the family sedan or a new age hybrid vehicle, the pop-up trailer presents many camping luxuries once assumed were only provided by larger, solid-bodied trailers. But most importantly, these compact rigs offer the ability to continue our cherished tradition of vacationing under the stars. Enjoy.