Scamp vs. Casita Travel Trailer: Which Small RV is Better?

Before we became full-time RVers, we did hours of research to determine what lightweight travel trailers would be best for us as weekend warriors. We spent a lot of time going to look at different models, reading reviews, and watching Youtube videos and ultimately decided that a fiberglass camper was the best option for us. We then narrowed it down to Scamp vs. Casita for the final purchase.

With their ease of maintenance, low weight, unique look, durability, and suitability for all kinds of weather, we felt a fiberglass camper like a Scamp or Casita would make for the perfect RV for more stress-free camping. As an added bonus, fiberglass trailers hold their value well, making them a more sound investment than other RVs on the market. So when it comes to it, how do you decide on a Scamp vs. a Casita, two small fiberglass RV manufacturers with a direct-to-consumer approach? In this post, we share our research to help you choose the best fiberglass model for you.

About Fiberglass Trailers

When it comes to fiberglass trailers, there are similarities you will find across brands, including both Casita and Scamp.

Fiberglass trailers are a unique type of RV that are made with a complete fiberglass shell. They are lightweight, durable, and can include features such as kitchens, bathrooms, and comfortable sleeping areas, while also having the ability to be towed behind smaller vehicles such as mid-size SUVs and quarter-ton trucks. With their fiberglass exterior, they are also well known for their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a popular choice for camping trips in all seasons.

In hot weather, fiberglass campers can provide a comfortable and cool interior space, thanks to their insulating properties. Fiberglass campers can also provide a warm and cozy interior space in cold weather. While fiberglass is not a particularly good insulator in terms of blocking heat transfer, the molded design can help prevent drafts and heat loss when properly sealed and insulated. 

Design & Construction Materials

Fiberglass campers come in a variety of designs, making it easy to find a layout that meets your camping needs. As they are molded, it also helps them to be shaped into more aerodynamic designs great for gas mileage and to better use internal space. They are less prone to leaks and can require less maintenance than traditionally built RVs. It is not uncommon to see 20-year-old fiberglass campers on the road looking brand new. Our 2010 was often mistaken for a 2020 model! There are typically two designs of fiberglass campers, depending on the size:

One-piece fiberglass: A one-piece molded shell is made from a single, continuous piece of fiberglass, which results in a seamless exterior that is less likely to leak or allow water damage. This construction method is typically used in smaller fiberglass campers, such as the “egg” or “teardrop” designs, as it allows for a compact and lightweight shell.

Two-piece fiberglass: Made from two separate fiberglass pieces that are bonded together, typically along the roofline. This construction method is used in larger fiberglass campers, such as the “scamp” style, as it allows for a more spacious interior with more headroom. The two-piece design can also allow for more complex camper shapes and designs including fifth wheels.

Resale Value of Fiberglass RVs

One major benefit of fiberglass trailers, which is true for both Scamps and Casitas, is their strong resale value. This is because fiberglass is a durable material that can withstand the elements and maintain its appearance and functionality over many years of use.

Additionally, fiberglass trailers are often designed with timeless, classic styles that do not become outdated quickly, which can also contribute to their resale value. We bought our 2010 Casita for $13,500 in 2020 and sold it for $19,500 in 2022. Even with the crazy things Covid did to RV prices, making a profit on an RV is rare and fiberglass trailers have great resale potential even as they age.

Fiberglass Maintenance 

Fiberglass campers typically have more ease of maintenance compared to other types of RVs.  One of the benefits of fiberglass is that it is a non-porous material that is resistant to moisture, rot, and corrosion. This means that fiberglass campers do not require regular sealing or painting, unlike other types of campers. Our fifth wheel requires frequent sealing of seams and caulking that our Casita did not require.

Here are the important maintenance tasks suggested to ensure the longevity and functionality of a fiberglass camper:

• Washing the exterior of the camper regularly to remove dirt and debris
• Inspecting the roof and seams for cracks or leaks; checking rivets
• Protect exterior from UV damage with covers
• Keeping the interior clean and dry to prevent mold and mildew growth

Casita Travel Trailers

Casita has been manufacturing fiberglass trailers since 1983. Based out of Rice Texas, the company prides itself on its Christian values and its mission to help people travel better. With its lightweight design and a variety of options and add-ons, it is easy to find a Casita that meets your camping needs, wrapped up in a small, durable, lightweight package. The carpeted interior walls make for well-insulated units and a cozy feel and their new gray interior options make for a bright and modern take on a tried and true classic RV. 

Website: Casita Travel Trailers

Design:

• 2 pieces of molded marine fiberglass with only one seam

Size Options:

Casita trailers are currently being produced in only the 17-foot option, although previously there were 16-foot models. In the past, Casita also produced a 13-foot model (the Patriot), that you may be able to find on the used market.

Casita Models:

As of 2023, Casita offers 5 models

• The Spirit: Two convertible dining/bed areas and the option for a front bath or bunk beds
• The Freedom: Features two captain swivel chairs and a mid-galley kitchen
• The Liberty: Rear dinette can be a double bed and 4-person seating area or transformed into 1 large king bed
• The Heritage: The floorplan with the highest possible sleeping arrangement (6) with two sets of bunk beds 
• The Independence: The only floorplan with fixed twin beds

All of these models come in either a Standard or Deluxe Version

• Standard: No bathroom 
• Deluxe: Wet bath (shower and toilet)

Estimated Weights:

Fiberglass trailers tend to be smaller and lighter than other trailers in the RV market. This being said it is important to practice safe towing practices and check your specific fiberglass trailer configuration’s dry and wet weight, tongue weight, and the specifics of your tow vehicle.

Standard

• Dry Weight: 2,200 lb

Deluxe

• Dry Weight: 2,500 lb

Standard Options:

• 14” wheels
• Electric Brakes
• Two 20lb Propane Tanks
• LED running lights
• Safety egress window (emergency escape window)
• Two burner stove
• 4 cubic foot fridge with small freezer
• LED brake lights

Add-Ons:

• Microwave
• Portable Solar Panels
• 15” wheels
• High-lift suspension package
• Roof-mounted A/C (standard on Deluxe)
• Roller Window Shades
• Outdoor Shower
• Furnace
• Electric Tongue Jack
• Andersen “No Sway” Weight Distribution Hitch
• Video Entertainment Package
• Awning 
• AGM Deep Cycle Battery

Tank Sizes:

Tank sizes are an important factor when purchasing an RV if you plan to boondock or camp in spots without full hook-ups (water, electric, and sewer). Without full hook-ups, you will need to tow your RV to the dump station or invest in a portable waste tank and water bladder as your grey and black tanks become full or your fresh water tank becomes empty.

• Fresh Water: 16 or 23 gallons
• Grey Water: 32 gallons
• Black:  15 gallons

Price

• The base price for a Standard (no bathroom) new Casita starts at $30,000, Deluxe models start at $32,000. The final price will vary depending on the options and features added
• To purchase new, there is a wait time of about 12-18 months

Scamp Trailers

Manufactured in Minnesota, Scamp has been producing fiberglass trailers and fifth wheels since 1971. Scamp is a family-owned business that touts its products’ durability, with models from the 1970s still on the road today. Their maneuverability, resale value, ability to camp in a range of temperatures due to quality insulation, and their great fuel economy due to their aerodynamic design and lightweight build make them one of the best fiberglass travel trailers. Scamp travel trailers are built to be towed by minivans, SUVs, trucks, and small cars and provide camping opportunities with more safety and comfort than a tent or other canvas camping solution.

Website: Scamp Trailers

Design:

Like Casita Travel Trailers, Scamp Trailers have a hard fiberglass shell and an aerodynamic design.

Size Options:

Scamp campers are currently being manufactured in 3 different size lengths: a 13-foot trailer, a 16-foot trailer, and a 19-foot fifth wheel that requires a gooseneck hitch.

Estimated Weights

Fiberglass trailers tend to be smaller and lighter than other trailers in the RV market. This being said it is important to practice safe towing practices and check your specific fiberglass trailer configuration’s dry and wet weight, tongue weight, and the specifics of your tow vehicle.

13-foot model:

• Dry Weight: starting at 1,500 lb (Standard, without bathroom)

16-foot model:

• Dry Weight: starting at 1,900 lb

19-foot model:

• Dry Weight: 2,400-2,900 lbs

The tongue weight for Scamp trailers typically ranges from 200-400 pounds before adding any cargo and depends on the varying layouts and options included in the model.

Standard Options:

Scamp models come in two options: the standard Scamp trailer and the deluxe Scamp trailer. For the most part, the Standard and Deluxe offer similar features, with a few key distinctions:

Standard Features

• 44” bed
• Fiberglass cabinets with wood panel interior doors
• 1.9 cubic foot fridge

Deluxe Features

• 54” bed
• Choice of all hardwood interior with Oak or Birch cabinets
• The 19-foot fifth wheel only comes in the deluxe model and features a 44’ bed.

Add-Ons Features:

• Sink in Bathroom
• Sani Potti
• Roof Fan
• Roof Air Conditioner
• Heatstrip for Air Conditioner
• Microwave Oven
• Glass Stove Top (Upgrade)
• Conventional Oven (Upgrade)
• Front “L” Shape Cabinet (for 19′ Deluxe model only)
• Furnace (16,000 BTU)
• Wireless Brake Control
• Backup Camera
• 12 ft Awning; 8 ft awning for 13′ model
• TV Antenna
• TV Cable Hookup
• TV Package
• Generator
• Outdoor Shower
• Solar Panel Kit
• Aluminum Wheel Upgrade
• Dual 20lb propane tanks (for 13′ and 16′ models)
• Group 27 Battery Pack (for 13′ and 16′ models)
• Electric Tongue Jack (for 13′ and 16′ models)
• Entrance Grab Bar
• Door step (13′ model)

Layouts:

Scamps have flexible floor plans, in that tables can be converted to beds for additional sleeping or living space, as desired. In addition, they all offer varying amounts of storage space inside, ranging from closets and pantries to overhead cabinets.

13-foot trailer:

• Front bunkbed layout with no bathroom
• Front wet bath with no bunk bed

16-foot trailer:

• Front bunk bed with fridge and side dinette table
• Front bunk bed with side wet bath replacing the dinette
• Front wet bath and closets replacing side dinette and bunk bed
• Front sofa/bunk bed with larger side dinette, moving kitchen all to the door side of the trailer

19-foot fifth wheel:

• 3 layouts with raised queen bed loft and varying options for sofa bed, wet bath, and kitchen configurations 

Tank Sizes:

Tank sizes are an important factor when purchasing an RV if you plan to boondock or camp in spots without full hook-ups (water, electric, and sewer). Without full hook-ups, you will need to tow your RV to the dump station or invest in a portable waste tank and water bladder as your grey and black tanks become full or your fresh water tank becomes empty.

• Fresh Water: 12 gallons
• Grey Water: 26 gallons
• Black Tank: 6 gallons

Pricing:

• Base prices for a 13-foot Standard Scamp start around $20,000, with prices increasing as you move up in size and options to the starting price of the 19-foot fifth wheel at around $35,000. As with Casita, you can expect a long waiting period when purchasing new, potentially up to a couple of years.

Buying A Used Casita or Used Scamp

The great thing about fiberglass trailers is that their great build quality means that they last a long time. Our 2010 Casita felt and looked like new when we purchased it in 2020 and saved us a lot of money compared to buying it new from the factory. Buying a used RV is a great way to save money and avoid long wait times if you can find the right trailer that has been well cared for (which is typically the case in the fiberglass trailer community).

Here are some great places to look for a good deal on Scamps and Casitas in the used RV market:

• Fiberglass Classifieds
• Fiberglass RVs 4 Sale
• Fiberglass RV

Facebook Groups can also be a great place to look for used Scamps and Casitas, as well as ask questions. The community of owners will be eager to provide guidance and assistance. This is how we ended up purchasing our Casita and it was a great experience.

• Casita Owners RV Classifieds
• Casita Owners of America
• Scamp Trailer Classified
• Scamp Owners of America

Our Personal Experience As Casita Owners

While our Casita was a small RV, it had everything we needed to go on big adventures. Our Casita traveled all over the East Coast and allowed us to camp comfortably in the chilly Vermont temperatures in late fall, as well as the Georgia summer heat. Fully self-contained with a wet bath and kitchen, we used our Casita at campgrounds with full hook-ups as well as boondocked without amenities and had the same “glamping” experience. 

Every time we stepped into our Casita, we felt an instant jolt of excitement. There is truly nothing like getting out into nature, waking up to the sounds of birds and the breeze through your window, and enjoying days disconnected from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was those moments of pure and simple happiness that catapulted us to full-time RV life and we truly feel spoiled by the experiences we had with our little fiberglass egg. We had surprisingly little maintenance, no major issues, and could take it almost anywhere. 

The features we loved most about our Casita were its higher interior height compared to the Scamp, its larger interior space due to the 17-foot model, and its layout with the larger fridge, side dinette, and wet bath. We were also able to find a great deal on a used model with many upgrades, which made our purchase decision that much easier.

Scamp vs. Casita Overall

If you are looking for a small travel trailer that can be easily pulled by a smaller tow vehicle like a minivan or SUV, fiberglass trailers are a great lightweight option. When you decide to purchase a fiberglass RV, you are investing in camping memories that will last you a lifetime. Both Scamps and Casitas are well built, durable, lightweight, and have lower maintenance than other mainstream RVs manufactured by large RV companies. You are also joining a great community of people who are passionate about their fiberglass “eggs” and who are eager and happy to help with any questions you might have during your ownership.

With their small size, both Casitas and Scamps will fit into almost any RV park, National Park, State Park, and a large amount of boondocking sites. 

When it comes down to Scamp Vs. Casita:

• Casitas have higher interior heights on the 17′ models, larger holding tanks, and a larger refrigerator. They also have the only floorplan between the two brands with two permanent twin beds rather than a fixed or convertible East-West bed that requires climbing over your camping partner
• Scamps have more layout options, with smaller versions still being produced today, as well as larger fifth wheel options also being produced, and tend to be lighter weight overall and have lower tongue weights
• Both are small fiberglass trailers that offer a more aerodynamic design than other trailers, offering better gas mileage and making them both very economical options that you may be able to tow with a vehicle you already own
• Safety Features: Scamp has all the basic safety features, while Casita offers electric brakes and safety chains for added security

If you are still unsure about what fiberglass model or brand might be best for you, we encourage you to compare Scamp and Casita to some of the other great fiberglass travel trailers, such as Oliver Travel Trailers or Escape Trailers.

We have a complete guide to the 13 best fiberglass travel trailers on the market to help you further compare and contrast features, determine the best fiberglass travel trailer for you, and make a worthwhile investment in your camping future.

And remember, fiberglass campers age well so don’t be afraid to look at used models that have been well-maintained! You can save a lot of money by doing so and get a very similar unit to what is being produced today.

Still not sure whether a Scamp or Casita is right for you? Consider renting each RV and see how it feels to really spend some time camping in them! RV Share is a great resource for finding RVs for rent in your area. We used this service when renting out our Casita and found them to be high quality and easy to use!

Once you have selected the perfect camper for you, check out all of our best RV Travel Guides and RV Tips and Resources to help you make the most of your RV adventures!

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