Finding an Airstream for sale is not necessarily difficult depending on your location, goals, and budget. However, everyone chooses to go about their journeys differently, thus making the entire Airstream community a diverse, friendly environment to share stories, tips, and so much more with one another.

If you're planning on starting your adventure on your own or maybe you'll have someone tag along with you every now and then, knowing which model to choose can be overwhelming.

I primarily travel solo, but every so often my sister or parents tag along (might need an upgrade soon). When I was going through the process of finding which Airsteam I wanted, I created a list and took into consideration the activities I enjoy doing (cooking, hiking, fishing) and chose a size I thought would be suitable for my goals. Counterspace, storage, and size were the biggest factors contributing to my decision.

I also considered the fact I had never towed before in my life--yet alone drive a vehicle larger than a mid-size truck. 5 months before finding the right Airstream for sale, I drove a Toyota Tundra around until I felt comfortable and successfully backed-up and manouviered the vehicle with ease (bare with me, I am only 23 years-old). Even still--I had never towed until the day I got my Airstream and immediately headed towards the freeway.

Obviously, the biggest conern and framework for deciding which model to chose is your budget, but also make sure to take into consideration your vehicle towing capacity, which layout, storage needs, and activites you would like to partake in while you travel (i.e., kayaking, biking, etc.). Don't forget about where you are going to store your Airstream for when you are not traveling (rent a spot, driveway space, etc.)

Once you have a clear envision of what you'd see you life as in an Airstream, you can start finding Airstreams for sale ranging between $46,000 to anywhere around $200,000 if you want to go all out for a current 2023 model. Of course, previous Airstream models sell for less or if you're looking for a major yet rewarding DIY project, you can find a used Airstream for sale on platforms like Craigslist around $15,000 to $30,000 depending on the year, size, and model.

To help make the selection process perhaps a bit easier, below are 5 great beginner Airstream models you might want to consider.

1. Basecamp

The basecamp camp model is the only travel trailer differing in appearance compared to the other models with their iconic silver bullet shape. You can find a Basecamp for sale with only two sizes: 16' and 20'. The 16' model is 1 axile and sleeps 2 while the 20' is also 1 axile but sleeps 4.

Pros:

• Small compact size perfect for storing when not in use
• Afforable
• Perfect for a weekend adventure
• Don't need a fancy, expensive truck to tow

Cons:

• Might be too small for your needs (if you want to live in it full-time)
• Not much storage or counter space
• Wetbath (if you don't prefer this style)

2023 models start around $50,000, but older models can be found around $25,000 depending on the dealer.

For all the REI fans out there, there is even a special edition REI Basecamp model that has all the same functionality features as the regular Basecamp but is simply designed differently.

2. Bambi

The Bambi begins the line of iconic silver bullet designs offering sizes like 16, 19, 20, and 22 feet. All Airstream Bambi's for sale have a single axile and can sleep up to 4 people. Be aware that every length offers a different floorplant to choose from.

Pros:

• Versitle floorplans depending on your needs
• Easy to tow compared to a 30' trailer!
• Again, you won't need an expensive truck to tow

Cons:

• Wetbath (depends on your preference and model)
• Space is limited, but of course always functional

2023 models start around $60,000, but again you can find older Airstreams for sale for a much cheaper price if you are willing to take on a DIY project.

3. Caravel

The Caravel is simply a more high-end version of the Bambi, but functionality wise, they both operate the same. It comes in the lengths 16, 19, 20, and 22 feet, it has a single axile and can sleep 4 as well. As you can notice, the interior offers a different environment. Once again, keep in mind, each length offers a different floor plan depending on your needs.

Pros:

• Nicer interior design compared to Bambi
• Easy to tow and back up (just like the Bambi)
• Will not require a heavy duty truck

Cons:

• Wetbath (if you don't prefer one)
• Space and storage is again limited

The Caravel price makes a huge jump compared to the Bambi, starting around $75,000, so be sure to have a clear budget in mind and understand the differences betwen each models to make the best choice for your needs.

4. Flying Cloud

The Flying Cloud model makes a jump in sizes offered. There's a 23', 25', 27', 28', and 30'. Obviously I would not recommend starting off with a large sized trailer if it is your first time towing and adventuring like this! It is easier to start small, then once it surpasses your needs, consider trading in your current model or a larger one.

Pros:

• Great storage
• Comes at a 23' size, making it easy for towing on your own
• More solar pannels can be added on the roof compared to smaller models

Cons:

• Interior is not as luxurious compared to larger models (i.e., Classic)

2023 Airstream models for sale will start in the six figure zone around $96,000, but older models can be found around $70,000 depending on the dealer and condition of course.

5. International

The International is also offered in the same sizes as the Flying Cloud--23', 25', 27', 28', and 30'. The only main difference is the interior design of the International compared to the Flying Cloud. Regardless, both models are very nice and suitable for your needs.

Pros:

• Stylish interior
• Again, more solar panels can be added

Cons:

• Less storage compared to Flying Cloud models (this is what I've been told by couple who upgraded from their Flying Cloud to an Internation)

2023 models start above $110,000, but as with all the other models, you can find older Airstreams for sale (some needing rennovations and other don't).

Conclusion

Hopefully a simple breakdown of some perfect beginner Airstream models can make your selection process go by faster. No matter what, make sure to sleep on your decision and envision yourself traveling in that trailer before taking an firm actions.

As you can see, there are not too many cons about owning an Airstream. It truly depends on your personal needs and goals when buying one.

As for myself, after a 5 month search process and a couple walk throughs, I decided on the 2023 23' Flying Cloud model due to the storage, layout, width, and counterspace.

I've talked to other fellow Airstreamers who have upgraded over the years and many (most are couples) start with the Bambi and eventually upgrade to the Flying Cloud. I cannot speak from experience, but one couple told me the Flying Cloud has more storage compared to their current Airstream, the International.

If you're still having trouble deciding, always go to an Airstream dealer to do a walk through and be sure to check out the Airstream forum for other's advice. It's an amazingly resourceful community ready to help you anytime!

Regardless, I hope I could provide at least a sliver of guidance in find your Airstream.