There was a time when the key trend in the travel trailer industry was to whittle down as much stuff as you could, which led to the rise of teardrop trailers. But smaller isn’t necessarily better. It all depends on the kind of camping one does. Some people prefer a smaller trailer that is equipped with bare essentials, while others yearn for bigger trailers that can elevate comfort to the next level.
For the latter, a regular-size teardrop wasn’t proving to be an ideal option in their pursuit. People wanted to maximize space and this is what predominantly led to the rise of customizable, modular, and expandable trailers, in contrast to the simpler versions popular in the mid-2010s.
I don’t ridicule the decision of people opting for an expandable version over a basic camper, after all, a camper trailer is more or less a second home for many. So when families and friends gather, they need space that is capacious enough to cook, bathe, and sleep, making brands like Invader a top choice among camping enthusiasts.
The South African trailer manufacturer is garnering a lot of acclaim in the camper trailer communities for its latest build, the Invader Duo X. The 14.1 feet ‘squaredrop’ trailer boasts both off-road and off-grid capabilities and seems tailor-made for those who crave adventure without sacrificing comfort.
Weighing in at a tare weight of 2006lbs and gloating a gross weight limit of 3417lbs; it is undeniably hefty and requires a vehicle with a tare weight of 3306lbs or more for towing. What’s intriguing here is the Duo X’s impressive payload capacity of 1336lbs that allows adventurers to bring along all their essential gear without worry.
Starting from the bottom, the Duo X trailer chassis is built from galvanized ladder-type construction, ensuring durability and resilience. It further comes equipped with a 2.5-ton Burquip brake axle and an automatic brake system, hence providing a safe towing experience. The Duo X also features all-terrain tires mounted on 245/75 R15 mag rims enabling the camper trailer to handle diverse landscapes with ease.
Moving up, the body of the trailer is crafted from seamless, hand-laminated fiberglass, which is not only visually appealing but also remarkably resilient against harsh conditions. Here, the trailer includes a spacious nose box that offers versatile storage options, featuring heavy-duty fridge sliders and ample space for gas cylinders and jerry cans. The trailer also features a slide-out kitchen that flaunts a fold-down work surface equipped with an LED light and a bamboo cutting board, making meal prep a breeze.
Other features include crockery drawers that offer convenient storage for wine glasses, plates, and bowls, while a two-burner gas stove with a windshield allows for cooking in various weather conditions. One cannot ignore the addition of hot and cold water alongside a sink that ensures a convenient cooking and cleaning experience, making the outdoor kitchen a true highlight of the trailer.
A common problem with camper trailers has always been the absence of night lighting, which Duo X solves with its exterior LED lights that enhance visibility during nighttime setups, thus ensuring a hassle-free camping experience. As exquisite outside, the trailer is equally impressive inside. The durable vinyl flooring with a wood finish gives a warm feel, and the fiberglass cupboard construction offers durable and modern storage solutions.
The interior has two distinct seating areas with embroidered cushions that add to the comfort. The seating area is complemented by a vanity basin that provides hot and cold water for freshening up. While I was already mesmerized by these features, it turned out Duo X had more to offer. The Duo X is equipped with a canvas tent featuring mosquito netting and all-weather PVC window covers, ensuring comfort regardless of the conditions outside.
Hat tip to New Atlas that points out the trailer’s tent roof rises vertically with the use of electro-pneumatic actuators activated by a button. After that, smaller actuators tilt the roof to effectively direct rainwater away. The website further notes that the front section of the tent is stored under the trailer’s roof and can be manually extended forward, supported by two poles, to create a complete tent floor for two people.
This innovative two-stage tent design creates a front room that functions as an indoor bathroom with a hidden portable toilet and a mini kitchen with a sink, as mentioned above. To ensure the area stays dry throughout, Invader has positioned the shower hookup outside with an optional privacy enclosure available.
A major problem why most trailer companies fail is because they tend to focus on the durable aspect and leave the technical side at the mercy of a camper. But that is not the case with Duo X. In terms of electrical and gas systems, the Invader Duo X is fitted with a comprehensive setup designed for convenience and efficiency. The trailer is accoutered with the Victron energy system including a 30Amp battery charger, a 375W inverter, and a solar controller to keep devices charged while on the road. Not to mention, a 120-litre chassis-mounted water tank that ensures ample fresh water for your trips, further enhancing its practicality.
Also Read: Opus O4 Off-Road Trailer Inflates to Sleep More People Than a Tiny House
If this doesn’t blow your mind, the Duo X comes with a lot of customizable options ranging from patio extension to shower cubicle. We cannot confirm the actual price of the camper but New Atlas mentions it will be upward of $23K.
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