Airstream’s Newest Affordable Trailer Is Optimized for Off-Grid Adventures

The Basecamp Xe features solar and electrical enhancements that allow it to operate independently for longer away from civilization.

Airstream Basecamp Xe Adventure Trailer shown sitting against a light blue background

By Ben Bowers

Published March 3, 2025

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Updated March 3, 2025

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Airstream has long been the go-to name for sleek, modern adventure trailers, and now, the brand has significantly upgraded its most affordable model line.

The Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer is the newest 20-foot, single-axel addition to the company’s entry-level Basecamp family.

As the “e” in the name suggests, the iconic American adventure trailer brand has augmented the original Basecamp trailer design with key electrical upgrades that should make the unit highly appealing to those heading far off the beaten path or anyone just looking for a more sustainable way to travel.

The Most Off-Grid Ready Airstream Basecamp Yet

The Airstream Basecamp Xe adventure trailer is shown parked on a concrete pad next to a picnic table in front of a small pond, which reflects the trailer. — The Airstream Basecamp Xe significantly leaps the solar capabilities introduced recently on other Airstream Basecamp models.

The Airstream Basecamp Xe builds on the optional solar-powered improvements introduced to the Basecamp line in 2023.

The new model boasts 600W of rooftop solar panels, a fully inverted 30A electrical system, and a 10.3-kWh lithium Battle Born battery pack supported by a 3,000W inverter. Together, the system gives owners the flexibility to run even high-draw appliances like air conditioners and microwaves.

Airstream has also upgraded the pre-wire port to connect up to 300W of additional solar panels, further boosting energy collection.

An interior image of the cabin of the Airstream Basecamp Xe trailer showing the galley, rear seating area, fridge and door to the bathroom — Inside, Airstream has swapped out traditional gas-powered appliances for all-electric alternatives, including a portable induction cooktop that can be used outside with any 110-volt outlet and an electric refrigerator.

Inside, Airstream has swapped out traditional gas-powered appliances for all-electric alternatives, including a portable induction cooktop that can be used outside with any 110-volt outlet and an electric refrigerator. This setup makes the trailer more efficient and eliminates the need for extra fuel sources.

That said, Airstream hasn’t entirely abandoned propane. A 20-pound onboard propane system is still in place for outdoor grilling via an integrated outdoor hookup. The trailer also features a Truma Combi eco plus two-in-one RV furnace and water heater that can operate using only electricity, only propane, or both.

The Airstream Basecamp Xe bathroom and shower area. — A Truma Combi eco plus System allows the trailer’s furnace and hot water heater to run exclusively on electricity or propane, or both.

This allows the propane tank to act as a backup power source for the trailer’s interior heating system and hot water supply, ensuring flexibility for travelers who need reliable warmth in colder conditions.

Ready to Tow Anywhere

A close-up of the rear and wheel area of the Airstream Basecamp Xe adventure trailer. The trailer is shown against a grainy light blue background. — A factory-installed 3-inch lift, rugged tires and stone guards allow the Basecamp Xe to be safely towed on rougher roads.

Designed for rugged excursions, the Basecamp Xe features a factory-installed 3-inch lift, rugged Goodyear Wrangler tires, and stone guards that protect the trailer from rough terrain. A redesigned LP shroud shields the propane system and creates extra storage space.

An interior image of the Airstream Basecamp Xe showing a floor storage compartment that can hold wet gear — A floor storage compartment inside the trailer can hold wet gear or double as a cooler.

Inside, the adventure-ready design continues. A dedicated wet storage compartment helps keep damp gear separate from the living space. The same space can also work as a cooler. The shower features L-track mounting points to hang and dry wet clothes too.

Creature Comforts You’d Expect

An interior image showing the gallery seating area of the Airstream Basecamp Xe adventure trailer which can convert into a sleeping area. — The trailer’s galley seating area transforms into an additional sleeping space.

Despite its rugged nature, the Basecamp Xe doesn’t skimp on comfort. The interior is designed to handle up to four people and features an expansive galley, a dedicated sleeping space, and a convertible dinette that transforms into an additional bed. As our contributor, Andy Cochrane, noted in his review of the original 16-foot Basecamp, “the inside feels much larger than it looks from the outside,” and we’re sure the same holds true for this bigger, upgraded edition.

A gods-eye rendering of the interior cabin setup of the Airstream Basecamp Xe adventure trailer — As with all Airstream trailers, the interior of the Basecamp Xe offers plenty of smart design choices and interior creature comforts.

Airstream also includes thoughtful features like an optional composting toilet for a more sustainable waste solution and a microwave for added cooking convenience. A Bluetooth-enabled premium sound system rounds out the creature comforts.

Pricing and Availability

A woman holding a child. Both are dressed in fleeces and warm clothes. They are standing in front of the open rear door of the Airstream Basecamp Xe trailer — With a starting price of $76,900, the off-grid living enhanced Airstream Basecamp Xe costs nearly twice as much as the most affordable entry in the Basecamp family.

The Airstream Basecamp Xe is available now, starting at $76,900. That’s a steep jump in cost compared to the entry-level 16-foot standard Basecamp which starts at $48,300.

That said, with its enhanced off-grid capabilities, rugged build, and all-electric efficiency, we won’t be surprised if the Xe quickly becomes the best-selling version of the Basecamp family in short order.