Airstream Trade Wind FAQ

What are the dimensions of an Airstream Trade Wind?

The Airstream Trade Wind is offered in two floor plans: the 23FB and the 25FB. Both travel trailers feature a factory-installed 3-inch lift kit that adds ground clearance for exploring backcountry roads and remote camping areas.

Trade Wind 23FB:

• Exterior Length: 23 feet 11 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet
• Exterior Height (with A/C and Lift Kit): 9 feet 10.5 inches
• Interior Width: 7 feet 7 inches
• Bed Dimensions: Queen 60 inches x 75 inches or Twin 34 inches x 80 inches

Trade Wind 25FB:

• Exterior Length: 26 feet 2 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 5.5 inches
• Exterior Height (with A/C and Lift Kit): 10 feet
• Interior Width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 7 inches
• Bed Dimensions: Queen 60 inches x 75 inches or Twin 34 inches x 80 inches

Both layouts give you the option of a queen bed or twin beds in the bedroom area. Choosing the twin bed configuration opens up the center aisle, creating more room to move throughout the interior. The factory lift kit delivers improved clearance for exploring South Carolina's state forest roads and coastal camping spots.

How many people does an Airstream Trade Wind sleep?

The Trade Wind 23FB can sleep up to four people, while the Trade Wind 25FB can sleep up to five people. Both models include:

• A queen bed (60 inches x 75 inches) or twin beds (34 inches x 80 inches) in the rear bedroom
• A convertible dinette that changes into additional sleeping space

The 23FB has a U-shaped dinette in the front section that converts into sleeping space for guests. The 25FB offers a more spacious dinette area with room for an extra sleeper. Both configurations work well whether you're traveling as a couple, bringing the family, or hosting friends during your camping adventures.

What kind of vehicle do I need to tow an Airstream Trade Wind?

To safely tow a Trade Wind, you need a vehicle with adequate towing capacity. Here are the essential weights to consider:

Trade Wind 23FB:

• Unit Base Weight: 6,200 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 885 pounds
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 6,300 pounds

Trade Wind 25FB:

• Unit Base Weight: 6,200 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 885 pounds
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 7,300 pounds

Your tow vehicle should have a towing capacity above these GVWR numbers. For the 23FB, look for at least 7,000 pounds of towing capability. For the 25FB, you'll need at least 8,000 pounds or more. Most mid-size and full-size trucks, SUVs, and some larger crossovers can tow these weights.

You'll also need a weight distribution hitch system for proper towing. Always verify your vehicle's owner's manual for its exact towing capacity and requirements. If you're uncertain about your vehicle's suitability, the team at Airstream of South Carolina can help match you with the right model.

Where can I get service for an Airstream Trade Wind?

You can get service for your Trade Wind right here at Airstream of South Carolina! Our dealership is located in Lexington, just west of Columbia in the Midlands region.

We offer full service and maintenance for all Airstream models, regardless of their age or year of manufacture. Our certified Airstream Service Technicians have completed factory training in Jackson Center, Ohio, and participate in ongoing training programs to stay up to date on the latest features and repair techniques.

From routine maintenance like seal inspections and preparing your trailer for storage to warranty work and major restoration projects, our service team is ready to assist. We also maintain an inventory of common Airstream parts to minimize your downtime and get you back to camping quickly.

Schedule your service appointment by visiting our service page or calling our dealership directly. We're committed to supporting you for years to come.

What is the learning curve for owning an Airstream Trade Wind?

The good news is that learning to own an Airstream Trade Wind is reasonable, even for first-time RV owners. While there's definitely information to absorb, most new owners feel comfortable after just a few camping trips.

When you buy from Airstream of South Carolina, you'll receive a thorough delivery walkthrough that covers all the systems and features. We suggest taking your first trip to a campground within a two-hour drive of Lexington. This allows you to get familiar with your trailer in a comfortable setting while staying relatively close to home.

Key things to learn include:

• Setting up and leveling your trailer when you arrive at camp
• Connecting utilities (electric, water, and sewer connections)
• Understanding the electrical system and battery monitoring
• Using the Smart Control Technology app from your phone
• Basic maintenance like inspecting seals and checking tire pressure
• Getting your trailer ready for storage between trips

The Trade Wind comes with features that simplify RV ownership, such as four manual heavy-duty stabilizer jacks, a powered hitch jack with light, and Airstream Smart Control Technology that lets you monitor and control many systems from your smartphone. These modern conveniences make learning easier compared to older RV models.

Airstream offers plenty of online resources through Airstream Academy, with videos, articles, and answers to common questions. Plus, every new Airstream comes with three years of Coach-Net 24/7 roadside assistance, so professional help is always available when needed.

Most owners report that while the first trip involves learning, by the second or third trip, everything starts to feel routine. The key is being patient with yourself and remembering that every Airstream owner was once learning for the first time.

Does owning an Airstream Trade Wind make sense living in South Carolina?

Absolutely! South Carolina is a wonderful state for Airstream ownership, and the Trade Wind is particularly well-suited for Palmetto State camping and outdoor adventures.

Year-Round Camping: South Carolina offers camping opportunities throughout the entire year. The state's mild climate means you can camp comfortably in any season, from coastal camping along the Atlantic to exploring the Upstate mountains. Spring and fall provide ideal temperatures with lower humidity, while summers are warm and perfect for lake and beach camping. Winter camping is popular in South Carolina, with temperatures that rarely drop to uncomfortable levels in most areas.

Outdoor Adventures: South Carolina is home to Congaree National Park, numerous state parks, beautiful beaches, and mountain foothills. The Trade Wind's manageable size makes it easy to navigate South Carolina's varied campgrounds, from oceanfront RV parks to lakeside sites to mountain camping areas. Whether you're exploring Hunting Island, paddling blackwater rivers, hiking Table Rock, fishing Lake Murray, or visiting historic Charleston, the Trade Wind fits perfectly into the South Carolina lifestyle.

Solar Power: The Trade Wind comes standard with 600 watts of solar panels and a large 810Ah lithium battery bank. South Carolina's abundant sunshine makes these solar panels highly effective year-round. You can operate the air conditioner and microwave together without being plugged into shore power, which is especially valuable during South Carolina's warm weather.

Equipment Features: The Trade Wind's 30,000 BTU ducted furnace and air conditioning with heat pump are perfect for South Carolina's climate. The air conditioning is particularly important for dealing with South Carolina's heat and humidity during summer months. The furnace handles cooler winter evenings and early spring camping. The 3-inch suspension lift kit and rugged Goodyear Wrangler tires let you access dirt forest roads and backcountry camping locations throughout the state. The rear hatch door makes it easy to load fishing gear, kayaks, and beach equipment.

Local Support: With Airstream of South Carolina located in Lexington, you have convenient local service and support in the Midlands. This makes maintenance, repairs, and upgrades simple throughout your ownership without lengthy travel.

Storage Considerations: South Carolina's mild winters make storage easy compared to northern states. Many Lexington area owners keep their Trade Wind at home or in nearby storage facilities, ready to go whenever the camping mood strikes. Full winterization typically isn't necessary in the Midlands, though you may want to take basic precautions during occasional cold snaps. Year-round camping is possible in South Carolina, so many owners use their trailers throughout the winter months.

The Trade Wind's aluminum construction and quality insulation handle South Carolina's heat and humidity well. From weekend trips to the coast to exploring the Upstate, this Airstream is built for South Carolina camping.