Hot off the Press: Airstream Drops Hot and Off-Road Ready 'Trade Wind' Travel Trailer

Folks, Airstream has been in the mobile living and RV business since before my grandfather was born. Actually, it was around the same time, and G-pa is nearly 90 years old - Airstream is 92 years old. That's how much history and know-how accompanies this brand, and sure, that may sound a bit like I'm praising this brand, but then again, I'm not alone. Whenever this crew launches a new machine, typically, the whole world is watching, and the Trade Wind is bound to be no exception.

Now, as Airstream tells us, the Trade Wind is their "most independent travel trailer to date, catering to customers who seek immersive natural experiences without sacrificing residential comfort." It's also placed somewhere between the International and Globetrotter lineups, both in terms of price and features. Speaking of price, Airstream is asking us to drop at least $129,400 (€120,800 at current exchange rates) on a standard unit.

However, this is Airstream we're talking about, and "standard" typically means that a unit is complete with everything you'd need to live a full on-road life. Best of all, this unit draws some of its inspiration from the eStream Concept travel trailer, meaning that there's a large focus on electric and off-grid capabilities. I'm talking about, as Aistream states, "the largest battery bank, solar array, and power monitoring system in any Airstream travel trailer manufactured in the company’s 92-year history." That's quite the statement.

But Airstream really took things further with this one. I'm talking about the ability to handle off-road excursions, those that drive you deep into the woods or in the middle of nowhere with no one around but you, your family, and the local wildlife. This is achieved by a 3-in (7.6 cm) suspension lift, ensuring ample clearance when you decide to embark upon some light romping.

As for the nitty-gritty of things, let's dive a tad deeper into all that I've mentioned. Starting with the power setup, future owners will be able to access the juice stored in three 270 Ah batteries that are fed by a solar input of 600 W. Let's be honest: how much more juice do you really need? All this is handled by a 3,000 W inverter/charger and a Victron monitor that helps you keep an eye on this precious system.

A little side note regarding off-grid use is that Airstream decided to add a recirculating water heater, helping optimize water usage. A composting toilet only further improves available water levels, no matter where you are. Once you're all out of fresh juice, head back into town for a few hours, restock on supplies and life-giving liquids, and back into the wild with you.

As for those off-road abilities, I already mentioned the 3-in suspension lift, and that's all we really know at this time. But this lift kit is also accompanied by a set of 29.3-in Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse tires to unlock those dirt roads and wild trails. I can't wait until Airstream shows us the inner workings of this setup.

Finally, we arrive at the interior of the one and only available floor plan for this unit, the 25FB, 25 ft (7.62 m) of pure Airstream experience. Take a look at the images in the gallery if you haven't done so already, and tell me how you feel about it all in the comments. Personally, I'm seeing a blend of past and present styling and technology, which, if you like your Airstreams, is bound to appeal to you, as it did me.

What we see is made up of the classic Airstream aluminum shell they're known for, "highly textural" woven fabrics, and depending on the decor package you choose, oak laminate can also be spotted. Semiprecious metals make up features like sinks and faucets. Be sure to take in the countertop, oven, and cooktop too. I'm curious if we can switch out the gas top for an induction one; it just makes sense for such a unit.

At the front of the Trade Wind, a queen bedroom sits in wait, ready for your tired bones, but before you doze off, make sure to get a view of the world around you through the 270 degrees of visibility. This same visibility is also offered at the opposite end of the Trade Wind, where the dinette is found. This feature also transforms into another sleeping area, bumping this travel trailer's sleeping capacity to five guests, according to Airstream.

Furthermore, the manufacturer places a long list of optional features at your disposal, one of which is a rear hatch door that beautifully combines your interior and exterior worlds. If you can remove the dining table, it's Open House in a Trade Wind.

Since this is all the time we have for today, take a moment to place yourself in the center of a Trade Wind and dream a bit for the next few minutes. Picture yourself somewhere in the wilderness, with loved ones or friends around you, where the only sounds of mankind are caused by your group. Quite the feeling if you ask me, and the Trade Wind is ready to be the tool that gets you there.