Best Camper Trailers rating criteria

We worked hard this year to refine the scoresheet that the campers were judged against. We used a detailed 10-point system aimed at evaluating the many different components that go into making a truly great offroad camper.

Best Camper Trailers categories

1. Suitability for intended purpose

Judging camper trailers can sometimes be like comparing apples and oranges, with different rigs aimed at different markets. This point allowed judges to assess how well each camper suited its stated market.

2. Innovation

New features and options are highly regarded at CTOTY!

3. Self-sufficient

How long will the camper sustain you for in the bush? Things like water and power capacity are important here.

4. Quality of finish

The quality of fittings, welds and paint can mean the difference between a good camper and an exceptional camper.

5. Build quality and construction

The structural integrity, engineering quality and durability of the camper’s components, including canvas, are assessed here.

6. Performance offroad (trailers)/ Weight and its distribution (slide-ons)

How well the camper performs offroad is one of the most important factors. For slide-ons, the ability to preform offroad is only as good as the vehicle it sits on, so instead we assessed the important issue of weight and its distribution. Is there enough payload left for people and gear? Is the majority of the weight positioned forward of the vehicle’s rear axle?

7. Specifications and comforts

Let’s face it, camping is more like “glamping” these days, and we’re perfectly okay with that. The added extras that make your time in the bush more comfortable are judged here, including the kitchen, bedding arrangements, electronics, hot water etc.

8. Ease of use

Our judges are a lazy bunch, so they were looking for rigs that were quick to set up, and easy to use once erected. Campers with efficient layouts and speedy set-up times rated highly.

9. Value for money

We want you to get what you pay for, as well as a tidy resale price if you should ever choose to upgrade.

10. X-factor

The hardest point to articulate, here the judge decides if the camper just has that certain something. Does it have the “wow” factor?

More on the Best Camper Trailers test