Compact, versatile, rugged, expandable camper
Imagine setting out on an adventure, knowing your gear is more than ready to tackle the wild. The Hardkore Campers Xplorer 2.0 “Shorty” is a marvel of engineering, fitting snugly in your garage yet expanding into a haven of comfort and practicality once you reach your destination. This compact trailer is an overlander's dream, a mobile fortress that's as easy to store as it is to deploy.
At just 198 cm tall, the Shorty is designed to slide effortlessly into standard garages, both in Australia and the U.S. But don’t let its diminutive stature fool you; once at the campsite, it transforms into a sprawling base camp. With a full slide-out kitchen, including a dual-burner stove and a removable sink, preparing meals is a breeze. The adjacent built-in pantry and slide-out fridge, complete with an extra prep table, ensure you have all the culinary tools you need right at your fingertips.
On the opposite side, the shower tent offers a hot outdoor shower, while the integrated staircase makes ascending to the queen-sized bed in the pop-up hard-shell tent a cinch. This isn’t just any stairway, though; it’s equipped with storage compartments and guided lighting, turning a simple climb into a smooth ascent.
The 270-degree freestanding awning is a stroke of genius, providing ample shelter in seconds. It's hard to believe all this fits into something so compact when buttoned up, but Hardkore’s design makes it happen without compromising on any essential features.
What sets the Xplorer 2.0 apart is its rugged build. With a lightweight aluminum body and a dry weight of just under 2,867 lbs., it’s towable by most off-road vehicles. Its galvanized chassis, big-bore gas shocks, and nearly 20 inches of ground clearance mean it's ready for the roughest terrains. This camper is not just about getting out there; it’s about thriving in the wilderness, no matter where the road—or lack thereof—takes you.
Storage in the Shorty is nothing short of impressive. Despite its smaller footprint compared to the original Xplorer, it still boasts 3,450 liters of storage space. You might miss the extra 450 liters the larger model offers, but you’ll be hard-pressed to fill what’s available. With spaces for gas bottles, jerry cans, and two water tanks (100L and 70L), it’s equipped for extended adventures.
The Xplorer 2.0 isn’t just functional; it’s also a bargain. Starting at around $23,500 USD, it's a steal considering the features packed into it. Though currently unavailable in the U.S., plans are underway to bring this Aussie marvel stateside. Expect prices to climb a bit with import costs, but it will still offer incredible value.
The Hardkore Campers Xplorer 2.0 “Shorty” is more than a trailer; it's a statement. A declaration that you can have the best of both worlds—compact storage and expansive, comfortable living. It’s for those who yearn to explore without sacrificing the conveniences of home. So, whether you’re hitting the bush or the beach, this camper is your steadfast companion, ready for anything and everything.
Pros:
- Compact Storage:
Fits in Standard Garages: At just 198 cm tall, it easily fits into most garages in Australia and the U.S.
Ease of Storage: Designed to be stored conveniently at home, reducing the need for additional storage facilities. - Expandable Design:
Transformative Capability: Expands significantly at the campsite, offering more space and functionality.
Quick Setup: Can be fully set up in under five minutes. - Comprehensive Kitchen:
Full Slide-Out Kitchen: Includes a dual-burner stove, removable sink, and a built-in pantry.
Additional Prep Space: Features a slide-out prep table and a large refrigerator slide. - Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements:
Queen-Sized Bed: Pop-up hard-shell tent with a queen-sized bed.
Integrated Staircase: Easy access to the rooftop tent with guided lighting and storage compartments. - Outdoor Amenities:
270-Degree Freestanding Awning: Provides ample shelter quickly.
Exterior Shower Tent: Offers a hot outdoor shower for added comfort. - Rugged Build:
Lightweight and Durable: Aluminum body with a dry weight of under 2,867 lbs.
Off-Road Capabilities: Features a galvanized chassis, big-bore gas shocks, and high ground clearance. - Generous Storage:
Ample Storage Space: 3,450 liters of storage, accommodating various camping gear.
Specialized Storage Areas: Includes spaces for gas bottles, jerry cans, and water tanks. - Value for Money:
Affordable Pricing: Starts at around $23,500 USD, offering significant features for the price.
Cons:
- Limited Storage Compared to Larger Models:
Reduced Capacity: 450 liters less storage space than the original Xplorer model. - Availability:
Not Yet Available in the U.S.: Currently, it cannot be purchased in the U.S., though plans are in place to change this. - Potential Price Increase:
Import Costs: Prices may rise when it becomes available in the U.S. due to import costs. - Specific Towing Requirements:
Off-Road Vehicle Needed: Requires a capable off-road vehicle for towing, which may be a limitation for some buyers. - Smaller Living Space:
Compact Design: While convenient for storage, the smaller design may feel cramped for longer trips or larger groups.
Starting $23,500
