How to Camp in a Pop-Up Camper

Pop-up campers allow you to haul a camper trailer with a smaller towing vehicle, as pop-ups are among the lighter of camping trailers. Pop-ups give full shelter via fabric-hardshell walls and ceiling. Many pop-ups have outside showers allowing you to wash off and clean up after a day of adventure. Kitchens, sleeping quarters and entertainment centers are found inside the camper. Because pop-ups are lighter in weight and use fabric walls, certain precautions are needed to keep the camping experience fun.

Instructions

    • 1

      Zip up all windows and mesh enclosures during sandstorms and high winds when desert pop-up camping. Pop-ups are more susceptible to particles getting blown in through the mesh windows and doors during such storms.

    • 2

      Purchase and bring several silicone gel-packs from hobby stores. Place them under the sleeping mattresses and bench seat cushions to absorb moisture and humidity when you're using the pop-up in extreme heat and moist environments. These packs absorb the moisture and help prevent mildew and mold.

    • 3

      Empty the gray and black water tanks before towing the pop-up. Gray and black water holding tanks take in the waste and sewage. Empty these at certified dump stations in campgrounds or roadside rest areas to reduce weight. This improves gas mileage for the towing vehicle as a result of the reduced weight.

    • 4

      Unzip the windows, leaving the mesh up, during winds without sand. This keeps air flowing through the pop-up and alleviates much of the vibration from the winds. In addition, if it is hot, open windows keep air moving to cool the camping cabin.

    • 5

      Keep a small broom handy in a pantry closet. Sweeping out the pop-up is recommended each day, as dirt accumulates rapidly in the small space.

    • 6

      Level the camper when pulling into a camping space. Most pop-ups have a set of leveling jacks designed to level the camper in uneven or off-camber terrain A flat camper is easier to move around in and makes for better sleep.