Enjoying the great outdoors is a popular pastime, but many people still appreciate the convenience of a camper or trailer to sleep and prepare meals. One of the most iconic trailer manufacturers is Airstream, easily identifiable by their aluminum panels and rounded shape. Their classic design has stood the test of time, on the outside at least. The inside, that’s a different story. This 1967 24ft Airstream Trade Wind is highly original, and you can tell when you step inside. If you want to take a trip back 55 years while you take a trip to the woods, this is the trailer for you! It’s currently up for sale here on eBay in Belmont, North Carolina. The bid at the time of writing is $7,800 with the reserve not met.
In the owner’s manual for this trailer, Airstream really romanticizes the camping lifestyle by telling the new owner: “When you bought your Airstream, you not only received the finest travel trailer ever built, you entered a new way of life…a way of life filled with new friends and adventures to come. Those who travel the byways of the world in their Airstream are called Caravanners, and they never say ‘Goodbye,’ they simply say, ‘We will be seeing you on the road.’”
Well, at some point the owners of this trailer said goodbye to using it, because even though the seller makes a big deal of this being unrestored and mostly original, I don’t think that’s a benefit here. It looks pretty run down, with some soft spots in the floor and a few plumbing leaks. The seller does say it has a new power cord and recently repacked wheel bearings, so at least it should transport well. There were a variety of Airstream Trade Winds, but I think this is the Trade Wind Double.
One of the benefits of aluminum is the resistance to rust and corrosion. The exterior looks to be in good shape, with maybe just some polishing needed to shine it back up. The frame looks to have some surface rust and there are a couple small dents here and there, but really the only major item that should probably get replaced are the propane tanks.
The interior is where all the work will be needed, although the seller does say that most of the appliances work. Other than repairing the previously mentioned plumbing leaks and floor, most of the stuff is cosmetic, and the shag carpeting in the bathroom should be the first to go! I will say that nothing really appears to be missing or broken, just well-used and outdated. I’m sure that there have been many fun memories made in this Airstream, and many more to be had by the next owner. Personally, I’d restore it to be period correct, just with a better color palate. Would you go with a modern approach, or keep the 60s-era vibe?
About the best I’ve seen in original state – must have had shelter for a few years – lets see where this goes.
My 67 Overlander has never been sheltered, has been in the family since 69, and is in just as good shape.. Except mine retains its original working AC and fridge.
@nick_stuckley, they’re made of aluminum.
You’re right, thanks for the correction! That’s what I get for writing this late at night 😆 Edited the article.
I will be surprised if the bidding doesn’t pass $20k these things have a cult following people love them. And this one is about the same age as me and in better condition
Cult following indeed! Back when I worked at Iowa State, the campus played host to a gathering of the Wally Byam Airstream Caravan club. Ames was overrun by thousands (well, it seemed like thousands) of these gleaming beauties, and their owners liked nothing better than telling all and sundry how great it is to travel around with an Airstream.
These are made of aircraft grade aluminum.
It’s in pretty nice shape for an unrestored 53-year-old Airstream.
(I don’t EVEN want to know what that stain is on the carpet next to the trash can!)
$8,400 now with only 7 hours left. Reserve not met.
Stainless steel would not only be cost-prohibitive, but also a weight issue for trailers that need to be lightweight.
Yes aluminum not stainless. The new ones are sheet steel painted to resemble aluminum.
Sold $11,500.
Bargain of the week!
They’re nuts,,,for this tin can? Nice, but same old thing, do people actually boast to their friends, “hey, check out this vintage camper, and it ONLY cost me $11 GRAND”,,,Apparently so,,
too many advancements in the technology to spend money on the retro.
UNLESS
going ‘whole hog’ (rest0mod) and THAT’s big bucks.
Besides, a lill too long for me w/this one.
Cassitia or big Scamp/Escape’s better for this solo trekker~
I had an near identical unit. The beds were very uncomfortable.
What do you recommend for cleaning the exterior aluminum?