Are you an outdoors enthusiast looking to explore the world? Then you may find yourself looking at different ways to travel and camp on the road. The most popular options are airstream and fiberglass trailers, but which one is better, and what are the characteristics of each one?
The following table compares the pros and cons of Airstream and Fiberglass trailers to help you make an informed decision when choosing your trailer.
| Airstream Trailers | Fiberglass Trailers | ||
| Pros | Cons | Pros | Cons |
| Aerodynamic | Heavy and more difficult tow | Aerodynamic | Lightweight and easy to tow |
| Spacious with storage | $43,900 – $206,000 | $10,000 – $40,000 | Very small and little storage |
| Luxury amenities | Prone to scratches and dents | More resistant to scratches and dents | Limited amenities |
| Up to 33 feet long | No external storage | Up to 25 feet long | No external storage |
| Lasts for up to 40 years | Expensive to repair | Last for up to 20 years | Cheap and easy to repair |
Key Takeaway:
Airstreams are high-end, luxury trailers with a timeless design, while fiberglass trailers are smaller, easier to tow, and more resistant to scratches and dents. Airstream’s luxury features and customizable floor plans set the price high, while Fiberglass trailers are more budget-friendly. Yet, both airstreams and fiberglass trailers are sound investments and will last for years if taken care of properly.
So which one is best for you? Keep reading to explore the benefits and drawbacks of both airstreams and fiberglass trailers, and discover paramount information to ensure you purchase a trailer that will bring you years of exploration and adventure.
Construction and Durability
Both airstreams and fiberglass trailers are sturdy and last a long time if taken care of, yet there are a few essential things to note about the difference in construction as they play a role in the stability, longevity, and comfort of your trailer.
While airstream trailers can last up to 40 years, fiberglass trailers can last up to 20 years or more if taken care of properly. Yet, in order to do proper maintenance, you need to know the construction of each RV.
Here are the key differences in construction between airstreams and fiberglass RVs.
| Airstream Trailers | Fiberglass Trailers |
| Aircraft-grade aluminum frame and body | Fiberglass mold |
| Steel frame | Fiberglass gel exterior |
| Heavy but aerodynamic | Small and lightweight |
| Rubber torsion axle for stability | Less stable in windy conditions |
| Easy to scratch or dent | Scratch and dent resistant |
| Expensive and difficult to repair | Cheap and easy to repair |
The aircraft-grade aluminum frame and body of an airstream gives it its timeless look and protect the RV from mold, UV rays, rust, and corrosion. Yet, it is also easy to scratch without a rock guard and expensive to repair, so off-roading isn’t recommended.
On the other hand, fiberglass RVs have a fiberglass gel exterior which is resistant to scratches and dents. These types of trailers can be towed into any terrain, and you won’t have to worry about damaging them.
Fiberglass parts are also easy and cheaper to repair than airstream aluminum.
Both trailers are also aerodynamic and have a low center of gravity, making them easy to tow, but the airstream is heavy, and many small cars will struggle to pull it.
Fiberglass trailers are smaller and lightweight and can be pulled by small cars without a hassle. Yet this has a drawback, as lighter trailers are less stable in windy conditions and at high speeds.
Airstreams are much more stable in windy conditions and at high speeds due to their rubber torsion axle, swaying control, and heavier weight.
Regardless, both types of RV are built with high quality and durable material that is made to last for years, but it comes down to personal preference and where you plan to use the RV to determine which kind is better.
Comfort and Spaciousness
Both trailers are excellent options, but there are some significant differences when it comes to comfort and spaciousness.
Airstream trailers have many floorplans available and various sizes, while fiberglass trailers do not. They are typically smaller and more cramped than airstreams.
Here are the key features of each RV in regard to comfort, spaciousness, and amenities.
| Airstream Trailers | Fiberglass Trailers |
| Various floor plans | Floor plans cannot be customized |
| Window space | Little window space |
| Cabinets and storage | Little storage |
| Customizable interior | No customizable interior |
| Plywood floors | Fiberglass floors and |
| Stain resistant furniture | Dinette/bed |
| Kitchen | Kitchenette |
| Bathroom | Wet bath |
| Additional sleeping spaces | No slide-out furniture |
| Electricity | Easy to clean |
| 16 ft – 33 ft long | 13 ft – 25 ft long |
| Ventilation | Rounded walls and corners |
Overall, airstreams have much more space and options for customizing the interior to maximize space. They are the higher class when it comes to a trailer due to their luxurious interior, including electricity, a full kitchen, a bathroom, and air conditioning.
Fiberglass trailers are a lot smaller and do not have as many options for floor plans and customizing the interior. There is a small kitchenette and a dinette which can be converted into a bed.
If you are looking for a luxury trailer, an airstream would be the way to go. But if you don’t need much, then a fiberglass trailer may be the better option for you.
Towing and Maneuverability
Before buying an airstream or fiberglass trailer, it’s important to take the towing and maneuverability of each into consideration.
Here are the towing pros of an Airstream:
- Aerodynamic and easy to tow with large vehicles
- Reduces gas expenses by 20-30% due to its aerodynamic design and low center of gravity
- Swaying control and stable at high speeds and windy conditions
Here are the cons of towing an Airstream:
- Smaller cars may struggle to tow it due to its larger size and weight
- Not recommended for all-terrain due because it is easy to scratch and expensive to repair
On the other hand, fiberglass trailers may be a more suitable option when it comes to towing.
Here are the pros of towing a Fiberglass trailer:
- Small and aerodynamic, so it is easy to tow with small vehicles
- Aerodynamic and a low center of gravity to improve fuel efficiency
- Suitable for all terrains due to its scratch-resistant exterior
Here are the cons of towing a fiberglass trailer:
- They are lightweight, making it difficult to control swaying at high speeds or in windy conditions
Overall, both airstreams and fiberglass trailers have advantages and disadvantages when it comes to towing. It all comes down to personal preference and where you plan on going that makes one better than the other.
Cost Considerations
While it may seem easy to make a decision on which type of trailer is best for you based on its design, comfort, and ability to tow, it’s important to look at the price of each.
Airstreams are more expensive due to their high-quality materials and luxurious interiors. The price ranges from $43,900 – $206,000, and repairs are generally expensive.
Fiberglass trailers are much cheaper due to their practicality and high-quality fiberglass exterior and interior. The price ranges from $10,000 – $40,000, and repairs are generally cheaper as well.
So it all comes down to your budget and what you plan to use it for when purchasing a trailer.
Final Thoughts
So if you’re looking for an adventure and are considering a trailer, be sure to really think about what you want before purchasing them. Both airstreams and fiberglass trailers have great options for everyone! It just comes down to personal preference and your budget. Good luck and happy camping!