Ashley Coyman brings us a glimpse into the past with her presentation of a rare U-Haul CT-13 travel trailer.
These fiberglass campers were a unique product from U-Haul, manufactured primarily in the mid-1980s.
While most production occurred in 1984 and 1985, some reports suggest that they were made until 1988, with U-Haul selling off their remaining fleet by 1992.
With only 1,725 units ever made, these campers are a rare find today, making Ashley’s acquisition quite a treasure.
Ashley’s journey to owning this rare camper began in 2019 when she was on the hunt for a Scamp camper.
Her search led her to Facebook Marketplace, where she stumbled upon the U-Haul CT-13 and decided to make the purchase for $6,000.
This serendipitous find connected her with a piece of RV history, and she’s been enjoying its unique charm ever since.
When U-Haul decided to sell these campers to private buyers, they removed most of the external branding.
However, remnants of the original U-Haul identity can still be found inside the camper, marking its value not just in rarity, but nostalgia too.
These little pieces of branding history provide a window into the past, making the camper not just a living space but a piece of U-Haul memorabilia.
Weighing in at just 1,250 pounds, the U-Haul CT-13 is a lightweight option for those with vehicles that have a towing capacity of at least 1,500 pounds.
This makes it an accessible choice for many RV enthusiasts who want a manageable and easy-to-tow camper.
Its compact size and lightweight design mean it can be taken on a variety of adventures without requiring a heavy-duty towing vehicle.
Despite its age, Ashley’s camper retains many of its original features.
The original stove and cabinetry are still intact, providing a vintage charm that modern campers lack.
Additionally, Ashley has made some customizations to suit her lifestyle, including a bunk bed for her cat, new vinyl flooring, and an aftermarket air conditioning unit.
These updates blend the old with the new, creating a comfortable and functional living space.
One of the fascinating aspects of Ashley’s camper is the original U-Haul emblems, warning labels, and sturdy lock.
These elements are proof of the durability and design of the camper, reflecting the attention to detail that went into its construction.
Such features also serve as conversation pieces, connecting current owners with the history of these unique trailers.
The program that produced these campers was discontinued due to mismanagement, leading U-Haul to sell the remaining units to private buyers.
This discontinuation turned these campers into rare collectibles, sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique design and history.
However, owning such a rare item comes with its challenges, particularly in terms of maintenance.
Common issues that owners face include rusting elevator bolts and fragile axles, which are typical problems due to the age of these campers.
Additionally, finding replacement parts can be a challenge, as many of the original components are no longer in production.
Water leakage is another issue that requires vigilant maintenance to ensure the camper remains in good condition.
Despite these challenges, Ashley has been living in her U-Haul camper for the past eight months, traveling and embracing the RV lifestyle.
Her experience highlights the joy of life on the road, where every day brings new adventures and discoveries.
Ashley’s journey with her U-Haul CT-13 is a lesson in why people have an adoring love for vintage campers and the unique charm they bring to the RV community.
Take the full tour in the video below.
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