1965 Airstream Trade Wind

“ This classic camping trailer has benefited from a full frame-off restoration, inc. UK axles/brakes/hitch. It's now ready for self-contained off-grid camping. ”
Full Alde wet heating system and underslung gas tank.

Background
Wally Byam’s dream was to create a travel trailer that would “move like a stream of air”, be light enough to be towed by a normal car, and yet offer its occupants first-class accommodation wherever they pulled up for the night.

In production since the 1930s, Airstream’s aircraft-inspired engineering fulfilled every one of his goals – and the fact they’ve been in production for almost a century means they’re probably the most proven caravans in the world. In fact, the design is so well engineered it’s said that two-thirds of the Airstreams ever built are still in use.

A large part of this longevity is that Airstream Land Yachts were designed from the ground up to last; they’re almost infinitely rebuildable and the aluminum skin not only looks terrific, it also resists corrosion much better than steel and has a far longer lifespan than GRP.

And yet, practicality be damned: You buy an Airstream as much for its iconic good looks as you do its practicality, and this one is every inch the movie star caravan of your dreams.

Overview
The Tradewind Land Yacht is the American firm’s off-grid option, designed to take you to take it even further afield.

Built in Ohio in 1965, this one also benefits from having had a frame-off restoration – and it was a Proper Job too, being carried out by the world-famous Haynes Motor Museum workshop, whose work included fitting it with UK-spec axles and braking system as well as a new towing hitch.

The seller bought it as a rolling chassis in 2020 and spent lockdown putting it all together. He maintained the Tradewind’s off-grid credentials by fitting solar panels, twin batteries, an internal water tank, and an underslung LPG tank; thus equipped, it’s completely self-sufficient – and you’ll able to enjoy it all-year-around thanks to an Alde wet heating system.

At 6.76m long, 2.54m wide, and 2.75m tall, there’s also plenty of internal space for even extended off-grid living, and yet that clever aluminium design means it weighs just 1,780kgs, so can be towed by most full-size SUVs.

Estimate: £30,000 - £40,000

View Current Bid Price HERE