AIRSTREAM - what makes them so expensive?

Terryallan wrote:
I don't get why any one that camped a lot would want one. They have much less room inside than a same size regular TT.
I guess it'a all about the name. Me, I don't buy anything based on name.

After 10 years with a Class C, we downsized to a 23' Airstream in 2017. Couldn't be happier.

We didn't buy it for roominess. When camping, we don't spend much time in it. We sleep, shower, and cook in it. Otherwise we are outside.

We bought it because we want it to last 20 years, then be handed down to one of our kids. With an Airstream, getting routine care, that is possible. I don't know of any other brand that can claim that.

As far as camping a lot, last year we left home on Aug 28 for a trip to the 4 corners area. We got back home on Oct 10. That is 6 weeks on the road.

This year, we will be doing a 6 week trip up the northeast coast. When we get home, we will stay there 2 or 3 weeks, then do a 6 week trip down the southeast coast. That will be 12 weeks on the road.

That does not include the once a month that we camp with a Good Sam Club (when we are not on the road).

Everyone has their own preferences. Personally, we don't understand getting a huge RV, limiting the places you can get into, when the idea is to get out and enjoy nature. However, we don't put down the people who prefer to carry every convenience they have at home when they camp. Some of the people in our club have 40+' diesel pushers. That is fine. For them.

What we wanted, and got, was a TT big enough to have a full bath, queen size walk around bed, full kitchen, and dinette big enough for two to eat at comfortably. More than that would have been a waste for us.

No doubt they are of good quality. I'm sure better than most other trailers being built.

However, just because they are riveted, doesn't mean there isn't stuff that doesn't work loose.

Friend of mine who we RV a lot with bought a used 1991 34 ft long behemoth, triple axle model. Twice while we have been caravaning together to football games, we'd had to stop to fix some sheet metal, or rock shields that have come loose. One of the required tools he carries is a rivet gun.


So, in due course, even Airstreams have repair issues on structural components.

KD4UPL wrote:
Airstreams are all metal, no wood to rot. They are welded and riveted so there's really nothing to ever work lose. They don't require caulking either. They are built basically like an automobile, or, really more like an airplane. That takes a lot more expensive materials and a lot more workmanship. Of course, they also last for many decades. I'd love to have one but I just can't spend the money.

I paid as much for my previous Class C Motorhome as I did for the Airstream. Fit and finish has been top notch and it's one of the most stable towing platforms out there due to low center of gravity and shape. There are more used Airstreams on the road than any other brand. Yes...they do require some maintenance and internal items can wear out however, they are also amongst the most customizable out there if you have the time and money. Been RV'ing for 30 years.....had a pop up, travel trailer, fifth wheel, Class C, and now the Airstream. I have no doubt it will outlast me......One of the best built and most durable RV's I have owned.

Because people will pay it.

I think Chris Bryant has one with a couple hundred thousand miles on it.

None of the Elkhart junk could do that.

I'm not suggesting Airstream's are a good value for the price. However they tend to last longer than conventionally built trailers.
There is a market for used Airstreams. Simply because there are old Airstreams still around in some sort of salvageable/rebuildable condition.
Conventional trailers do not have the longevity record that Airstream has.
Airstreams are still viable long after conventional units have disintegrated.

I don't get why any one that camped a lot would want one. They have much less room inside than a same size regular TT.
I guess it'a all about the name. Me, I don't buy anything based on name.

Lynnmor wrote:
Just Google "Premium pricing" and you will begin to learn how prices are set. The actual costs involved in building a product is just a part of the equation.

Correct. There people who buy the most expensive item available.

Just Google "Premium pricing" and you will begin to learn how prices are set. The actual costs involved in building a product is just a part of the equation.

Same reason a Harley-Davidson is so expensive.