Iconic Airstream

AIRSTREAM TEST “DRIVE” Not ready to buy, but want to try the lifestyle? California-based AutoCamp offers luxurious, modern Airstream accommodations for rent in Santa Barbara, Russian River and Yosemite.

Photo By Jack Guy

Tricked-Out Airstreams

AS ICONIC AS APPLE PIE by Nancy Erdmann

The Silver Bullet of travel trailers reigns supreme with customized, modern design.

Airstream’s polished-aluminum travel trailer is about as iconic as apple pie. The airplane-inspired coach began its journey in the early 1930s when Stanford graduate Wally Byam created a trailer for camping in comfort with his wife. Not long after, he opened his first Airstream factory. Often referred to as the Silver Bullet, today it is considered the Cadillac of recreational vehicles. From newly built, custom-designed vehicles to renovated-tothe-hilt, older models, Airstreams are reaching a new high in style, innovation and sheer fun.

Timeless Travel Trailers, a Colorado-based firm, recently restored a rare Western Pacific Airstream that serves as a vacation residence for its owner. Updated with Mid-century modern flair, it features an aluminum interior, wide-plank bamboo flooring, walnut veneer cabinetry and large horizontal windows for unobstructed views. “We’re seeing a high demand for an open floor plan, while creating functional storage space throughout the unit,” says Nicole Aulik, a business development consultant at Timeless Travel Trailers. “Solar and smart technology are also high on customers’ wish lists.” Tommy Bahama has also gotten into the game with its Relax Edition, designed in warm woods and green earth tones, with tropical bedding and ocean-blue towels. State-of-the-art kitchen appliances, woven yacht-like flooring and a builtin lighted bar bring the brand to life, including beach chairs, a cooler, glasses, bottle openers, whiskey stones and candles. And not too long ago, Airstream introduced The Nest—a compact, 112-square-foot luxury trailer big enough to accommodate a queen-size bed, bathroom and kitchen light enough to be towed by a large SUV.

Ultimate Airstreams offers several entertaining designs that might make you rethink your next glamping or client event. The Sophia I—a wine-tasting lounge—is a sophisticated ensemble of leather lounge seating, underlit translucent Brazilian granite countertops, a handcrafted oak barrel ceiling, dual-zone wine coolers and wine display cabinets. The Sophia II, includes dual TV monitors, making it ideal for work-related presentations, tailgating and guest lodging. The Hybrid Mobile Office is 30-foot-long office on wheels that provides the freedom to work from home anywhere—the ultimate freedom that Wally Byam imagined.