Skip to main content

Happier Campers are so lightweight even a Mini Cooper can tow them

Camping trailers can be a fun and adventurous way to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing too many of the amenities that you enjoy back home. The problem is, most of these trailers tend to be heavy, which means they can only be towed to the campsite by a truck or SUV. But a company called Happier Camper is looking to change that by introducing the HC1 Travel Trailer, a lightweight camper designed for those of us who don’t own a large vehicle. In fact, the company claims that its models are so small and light that they can even be towed by a Mini Cooper.

Recommended Videos

When creating the HC1, the company took some design cues from vintage campers of the past, giving the trailer a look that resembles something straight out of the 1950’s, but that has been melded nicely with modern sensibilities. The HC1 also received inspiration from the tiny home movement, which uses modular design to utilize the interior space to its fullest. The result is a surprising number of features squeezed into a compact environment.

Please enable Javascript to view this content

Featuring a 100-percent insulated double-hulled fiberglass shell, the HC1 is built on a sturdy reinforced frame that includes a torsion axle independent suspension, 13-inch aluminum wheels, and an electronic braking system. It also comes equipped with built-in rear stabilizing jacks for use on uneven terrain and a spare tire hidden away in its undercarriage. Beyond that, Happier Camper has given the camper a swivel-back tongue and a 2-inch hitch receiver, making it compatible with common tow packages.

Inside, the HC1 has been built to easily adapt to its owner’s needs and Happier Camper says that it can be quickly reconfigured for use while camping, or to serve as extra storage or living quarters while back home. The interior includes plenty of storage space, stylized panoramic windows complete with premium blinds, a rear hatch that opens to the outside, and space for a fold-out table. This model comes with built-in bunk beds and can reportedly sleep five comfortably.

Happier Camper HC1

The basic model ships with a solar panel and a basic electrical system for charging devices, but other than that the interior is a bit spartan. This allows Happier Camper to not only keep the price down but also gives buyers the chance to configure the trailer to fit their needs. Add-ons include a stove, refrigerator, interior toilet, a portable propane heater, power generator, and a heated shower. Many of those items are included on other camp trailers of course, but they also cause the weight and price to increase as a result.

The stock version of the HC1 weighs in at a mere 1,100 pounds, which is a large part of its appeal. The camper comes in seven different colors and starts at about $25,000. Happier Camper offers several different packages that range in price, or buyers can completely customize the trailers, picking and choosing the options they want.

Find out more on the Happier Camper website.

Kraig Becker
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Kraig Becker is a freelance outdoor writer who loves to hike, camp, mountain bike, trail run, paddle, or just about any other…
Aventon Abound SR combines thoughtful design, enhanced security, and smart connectivity
Aventon Abound SR hero image with couple on the e-bike

Electric bikes are nothing new at this point, and while there are many styles, few purportedly do-it-all, and even fewer actually offer smart or more advanced features. They tend to do one thing particularly well, like cruising, carrying cargo, or sightseeing -- like city riding -- but the biggest way they push the envelope is by offering that long-range electric power. The Aventon Abound SR, a new do-it-all bike, goes far and beyond anything that's come before it.

For starters, it's the first bike equipped with Aventon's electronic control unit (ACU) which empowers intelligent safety features. That gives you 4G and GPS tracking built-in, plus remote locking, an alarm system, and much more. But also, this top-of-its-class bike is incredibly versatile and is suitable for everything from commutes to tough exercise rides and daily routines. It features a top speed of 20 miles per hour, has a range of up to 60 miles per charge, and can carry a payload of up to 440 pounds. Impressive, indeed. Let's take a closer look and get a little more friendly with it, shall we?

Read more
Velotric: One of our favorite e-bike brands is having a huge sale right now
Velotric T1 ST Plus bike couple riding on the road

Take a minute to browse through the e-bike category, and you'll see lots of options but not many that I would classify as accessible. As far as technology goes, they can be pretty expensive, especially compared to your everyday traditional pedal bike. So, it makes sense that most people would wait until the holiday season, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday, to get a great deal on a new bike. Prices are at their lowest ever, and it's a great time to save some money. But guess what? You don't have to wait until later in November to save big because Velotric, a premium-quality e-bike maker, is hosting a huge sale right now. You can head over now to take a look, otherwise, we're going to explore some of those Velotric e-bike deals that are available.
save Now
 
What are these "Lower-Than-Black-Friday" Velotric e-bike deals?

Velotric is claiming these deals are "better" than Black Friday, so they better be good, right? Don't worry, they are. For example, you can grab the Velotric Go 1 Ebike for $400 off, while still getting it in a bundle that includes two free gears. That price is currently $1,299, normally $1,700. The Go 1 features a 500-watt motor, supports a maximum load of 440 pounds, and can travel up to 55 miles on a single charge. Pretty impressive. It's also designed to lug cargo, like a picnic basket, day bag, or even camping gear. That's mostly thanks to a lower center of gravity for the frame and hydraulic suspension system.

Read more
Yamaha offers sales of 60% on e-bikes as it pulls out of U.S. market
Yamaha Pedal Assist ebikes

If you were looking for clues that the post-pandemic e-bike market reshuffle remains in full swing in the U.S., look no further than the latest move by Yamaha.

In a letter to its dealers, the giant Japanese conglomerate announced it will pull out of the e-bike business in the U.S. by the end of the year, according to Electrek.

Read more