We have owned our 40-year old Scamp 39 years, and towed it more than 50,000 miles.  Across the years and miles, we have accumulated considerable experience SCAMPing (as we call it).

Our 13’ Scamp is the basic unit: the exterior has nothing attached; the interior has no optional amenities.  We have chosen to “keep it simple,” but we supplement our SCAMPing experiences with portable devices.  

For cooking (additional to the two-burner propane stovetop), we regularly bring along our Half Pint 500w microwave (else wise used in the cottage), and sometimes an electric burner, griddle, toaster/oven, and/or the Cobb cooker.  These devices can be used either inside or outside the Scamp.

For cooling food (additional to the icebox), we use a 12v thermocooler.  This unit--which we have owned for more than 20 years--is plugged into the car when traveling, and regularly used going back and forth to our cottage and else wise when traveling.  On-site, using a 12v-110v converter, the thermocooler is plugged into an electric outlet (either inside or outside the trailer, typically outside).  Recently we purchased a vintage (red Coca Cola) 1.7 cu ft 110v refrigerator for use during extended stays. 

For heating, we use a portable unit: either an electric heater (with 600w, 900w, 1500w and fan settings) or our canister propane Mr. Buddy heater (else wise used in the boat).  We recently removed the built-in propane furnace, which had been seldom used and felt unsafe.

For AC (if and when needed), we have a small 5000 BTU unit, which is hung in the right (old style) jalousie side window.  This simply entails removing the lower pane (held in place by four small screws), setting the AC unit--from the outside of the Scamp--on the bottom of the window frame, and cranking down the upper pane to hold it in place.  The surrounding window space is closed off by a fitted panel of aluminum foil.

We always carry an exterior carpet, table and chairs (plus, on most trips, a picnic table that folds into a suitcase, with accompanying umbrella.)  For an “awning,” a small tarp is tied to the Scamp--to strategically placed U-bolts on the roof, front and rear--and stretched to tent poles. 

We have a deep-cell battery, battery charger and solar charger available, as needed.

For entertainment, we bring along, as desired, the Grundig shortwave radio or a TV/DVD combo, kites, lawn and/or board games.

All of these items are portable, not built-in or fixed to the trailer.  They complement our simple Scamp, and provide (as we wish) “all the luxuries of home.”  Most are carried in the tow vehicle, as is our bedding.  

If your trailer is better equipped, you can dismiss some of these “tips”; we only share them as possible ways to enhance your own camping experiences.