Affordable Clipper 17BH trailer gives families a quick, budget-friendly way to hit the road
“The most popular and best-selling single-axle bunkhouse floorplan in the industry”—that’s how Coachmen RV describes its 17BH Clipper travel trailer. It’s a big claim, so naturally, it raises the question: what makes this camper stand out?
A big part of the appeal comes down to price. Right now, you can find a 17BH listed for as little as about $13,000, which is honestly hard to ignore. On the higher end, depending on options and dealer pricing, some units can climb closer to $20,000.
At that entry-level price, buyers get a travel trailer that can handle a typical American family, sleeping up to five people—possibly six if kids are small. Still, hitting that price point does mean a few compromises, and those are worth looking at a bit closer.
Step inside, and the interior feels pretty basic in terms of styling. That said, it still manages to include all the essentials: a full kitchen, dinette, sleeping area, bunk beds, and a dry bathroom.
The bathroom isn’t fully equipped, though—it’s missing a sink. That means you’ll be using the kitchen faucet or shower for washing hands or brushing your teeth, which might not be ideal for everyone.
Kitchen space is another area where things get tight. Counter space is limited, even though the stovetop cover sits flush with the counter. Meal prep can take a little planning, especially if you’re cooking and chopping at the same time. The dinette table can double as extra prep space if needed.
The 17BH also skips slide-outs entirely. Because of that, the dinette and bunks extend into the main walkway, so moving around inside can feel a bit cramped with a full group. It’s manageable—but expect to squeeze past each other now and then.
Still, it’s not all trade-offs. There are a few pleasant surprises here beyond the price. For one, the refrigerator is a decent size and offers enough storage for groceries on a short trip.
Coachmen also packed in more features than you might expect at this level. The trailer includes a tankless water heater, a 20,000 BTU furnace, GE Appliances equipment, roof-mounted A/C, a range hood, USB ports, and more.
Optional upgrades are available too. Buyers can add solar panels for off-grid use, a TV, all-terrain tires, and a powered tongue jack. There’s also an E-Z lube axle system included.
Another plus: the bunk beds are reportedly strong enough for adults, which could come in handy for group trips.
Storage is fairly solid for a trailer this size. Inside, you’ll find overhead compartments at the front, storage under and around the main bed, space beneath the dinette seats, and a small cabinet above the kitchen.
For outdoor gear, there’s a large pass-through storage compartment at the front, accessible from both sides. Additional items can be stored in a front-mounted cargo box.
As expected for a budget RV, construction uses a mix of materials—a so-called “hybrid” build. That includes wood in key structural areas like the frame and flooring. The exterior is finished in aluminum, including the front cap, along with a stone guard to help protect against road debris.
Put it all together—a lightweight, single-axle trailer with an awning—and you’ve got a simple setup for weekend getaways. Add some folding chairs, a small grill, and you’re pretty much ready to roll.
The 17BH comes in with a gross vehicle weight rating of up to 3,860 pounds, with about 826 pounds available for cargo. That’s respectable, though some of that capacity may go toward extra water if you’re planning to camp off-grid. The freshwater tank holds 27 gallons as standard.
No, it’s not perfect—but for the price, it delivers a straightforward, affordable way to get out of town and spend more time outdoors.