Airstream Trailers Post Index - Polly Auyeung

This post is to provide a brief summary of the Airstream trailer and link to more in-depth posts on the blog. Cited sources for each category are in the linked posts.

Subject: Airstream (photographs)

Inventor: Wally Byam (bio)

Purpose: Byam first designed the Airstream to be the perfect trailer. At a time when road culture and exploration were becoming popular, it was to be aerodynamic, light, and provide luxurious accommodations anywhere in the world. (origin of the airstream name), (the Wally Byam Creed)

Size and Scale: Small and compact, they are meant to be towed by vehicles. They range from 17' x 8'x 7' to 31' x 8'5" x 9'7". We are studying the largest model, the Classic 31'. (trailer plan), (elevations), (section)

Timeline: The Airstream company was formed in 1932 and is still making trailers. It is one of the oldest trailer manufacturers in the world. It has changed its trailer design over the years but overall it has retained its sleek aluminum shell. (company history), (design morphology timeline)

Construction: Airstreams are carefully hand-constructed of quality materials such as aircraft grade aluminum, steel, and wood. They are meant to provide a luxurious environment and last for a long time. 70% of all airstreams ever built are still in great condition. As a result, they cost much more than regular trailers, at roughly $70 000 USD. (how it's built video), (Airstream construction guide), (wall detail), (trailer 3D render), (exploded axonometric)

Address, Location and Site: As they are self-contained trailers, Airstreams can travel anywhere. However many Airstream enthusiasts choose to have rallies at Airstream-only parks. At the grassy, scenic sites, trailers are arranged in circular formations to encourage socializing. (rally arrangement patterns), (site pictures), (site plans), (site organization parti), (site freedom parti)

Community: The Airstream has many enthusiasts united by its iconic idea of "freedom to put the world at your doorstep". They set themselves apart from typical RV-ers by holding ambitious Airstream only caravan trips and regional rallies. They often discuss these expeditions on their Airstream online forums. (airstreamer culture), (airstream caravans)

Relationship to the Site: Airstreams are constantly moving, traveling from one place to the next. They never dwell in a place for more than a week. (tracking airstream rallies), (major airstream camps over two years)