Travelander Evron SC2 Trayback/ Geo Convert 2 Camper

WHAT WE LIKED:

• Rugged off-road quality and attention to details
• Versatility - trayback or trailer, take your pick!
• Available in single or dual cab traybacks

NOT SO MUCH

• Steep climb to top bed

Versatility is something we expect of our camper trailers; something that can function as a workable, user-friendly unit. But it’s not often you get multi-functionality when it comes to carting them around the countryside.

The range of Travelander RVs has that versatility in that they come as a fully functional module that can be lowered onto the tray back of a utility (single-cab and now dual-cab) or onto an off-road trailer chassis. Just add supplies and get on the road or outback track!

We had a look at both styles recently -- in the form of the Evron SC2 Premium Single Cab Trayback and Geo Convert 2 Premium Off-road Camper trailer -- and came away impressed.

OUT THE BACK

Built on an aluminium frame base measuring 2450mm long, 2000mm wide and 1150mm high when collapsed, the module has a dry weight of 670kg which makes it a viable proposition for a standard tray back of the order of Toyota LandCruiser, Hilux or Nissan Patrol without the need to beef up suspension components.

The lid to the camper is clipped down manually to the main superstructure. Once released a switch activates an electronic device which lifts the top up and over to the near side forming an elevated floor with the full tent unveiling as it goes.

This area is large enough to put in a couple of camp stretchers to cater for extra bodies during your travels.

Access to one of the two drawers in that side of the module may be via one of the lockable hatches on the outside. The drawers slide easily and extend almost to their full length on a sturdy roller system.

Access up onto the standard queen double berth is via a sturdy step system which forms part of the lid hinging frame. A second set of steps may be installed at the foot of the opposite side of the bed.

There are two shallow, top access trinket stowage areas close to the mattress.

The canvas work on the Travelander is heavy-duty and fitted with robust zips with ample ventilation all round the top bed and in the entry area.

The roof is fitted with a tropical fly which automatically extends when the unit unfolds; a bonus when in searing sun and needing to be inside for any length of time.

COOKING DUTIES

On the back end is a small kitchen awning that can be rolled up and stowed in a zipped bag. Just above it is a large hatch that opens to reveal a fold down stainless steel gas cooker and sink that can be secured in two positions to shield the burners from drafts.

The gas is connected via a quick release snaplock fitting for easy pack away and duel glass hinged covers allow either or both sides to be used as a preparation area when the facility underneath is not in use.

A 40-litre fridge slides out of the kitchen wall which also features amply storage shelves for condiments and the like.

If pulling up for some time, a more substantial annex that follows the main roof pitch can be attached and closed in with fly screens and walls if desired for insect-free relaxation.

Another short annex coming off the far side roof offers some shade over that wall which is armed with a number of hatches and appliances.

Here a second 40-litre fridge slides out on tracks and as mentioned earlier, the double access draw system is here also.

Access to a 4.5kg gas bottle which supplies the gas hot water system for the shower and the gas cooker in the kitchen is via another hatch and yet another houses the extendable shower rose and tap system; all of these being lockable.

A heavy-duty privacy curtain completes the ablution area which along with the other three sides and internal areas is well lit with LED lighting.

ANOTHER OPTION

So the tray back version is not your cup of tea? Travelander’s camper trailer is another option, comprised of a super heavy duty frame system that has been welded together and then hot dip galvanised.

It has a drop down goose neck drawbar system with what is arguably the best off-road hitch available in the Hitchmaster DO35. Rated to 3.5 tonnes it offers the most articulation of any hitch on the market.

The drum brake system is electric with the actuator vehicle- mounted and there is a manual hand-operated park brake fitted.

The running gear comprises independent wish bone suspension with air bags and shock absorbers.

The Travelander module is mounted on the rear of this chassis and on the front is a stylish fibreglass storage module with an aerodynamic shape designed to lessen the wind drag on the open road.

Its sides are perforated with plenty of hatches and located in one is a 12-volt air compressor that allows adjustment of the air bag suspension pressure and on which can be attached an air hose to inflate vehicle tyres at the end of a sandy trip.

The hatches here feature single rubber dust seals and those in the Travelander are fitted with double rubber dust seals for extra protection.

BOTTOM LINE

The Travelander, in either tray back or camper trailer form, offers plenty of storage space in a variety of areas and the build quality from what we could see is excellent.

The recommended retail price of the Evron SC2 Premium Single Cab tray back camper tested is $34,000 while the top-spec Geo Convert 2 Premium off-road camper trailer version is $44,500.

Visit the Travelander website for full specifications and pricing..