Pop-up / folding caravan

Typical value	Notes
Travel height when closed	Under about 1.10 m travelling height
Unladen weight	500–1,300 kg (typical unladen)
Berths	2–6 people
Potable water	Often 20–60 L, sometimes none at all

Typical value

Notes

Travel height when closed

Under about 1.10 m travelling height

Unladen weight

500–1,300 kg (typical unladen)

Berths

2–6 people

Potable water

Often 20–60 L, sometimes none at all

What these vehicles look like

Strengths

Tows behind almost any small car
Compactly parked on a pitch
Cheap to buy second-hand

Limitations

Pitching and packing time
Canvas upkeep
Cold nights and hot days

Best for

Weekend tripsSmall car ownersFirst-time buyers starting small

What it is

If you own a small petrol car and still want an RV, this is the only practical answer. A pop-up's closed height lets you drive where a normal caravan has to detour, and its low weight keeps fuel consumption to something sane.

Why people choose it

Canvas has consequences. Pitching and packing take time, fabric leaks when it ages, and it holds heat and odour. Budget for annual re-proofing and for a decent waterproof cover over the bed.

What to check before you buy

Check the unbraked weight and compare it with your country's limit for unbraked towing — commonly 750 kg or 1,200 kg. Many pop-ups sit right on that boundary, and being one kilo over means brakes and a different licence class. Confirm the figure with the authority in your country.

Also calledTente dépliante (FR: folding tent)