In a world where prices are constantly climbing, finding true bargains can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. While some staples like AriZona iced tea and Costco hot dogs remain surprisingly affordable, the same can rarely be said for big-ticket items. When it comes to vehicles, the notion of “cheap” often goes out the window. The title of America’s Least Expensive New Car currently belongs to the Nissan Versa, with a starting price hovering around $16,290. And if you venture into the realm of RVs, prepare for sticker shock, as many models easily reach six figures and beyond. However, for those willing to look beyond the massive and luxurious, there are still affordable options to be found. Believe it or not, you can snag a brand-new, fully functional camper for less than the price of that budget-friendly Nissan Versa.
Consider the Coleman Lantern LT 17, a travel trailer that rings in at an astonishingly low price of just $13,000. Yes, you read that right. For the cost of a used compact car, you can own a brand-new RV, complete with all the essentials for camping adventures. But before you get swept away by the incredible value, it’s important to understand what you’re getting – and perhaps more importantly, what you’re not – at this price point.
Alt text: Promotional video thumbnail for Coleman Lantern LT camper, highlighting its affordability and basic features.
RV shows often overwhelm attendees with displays of gigantic, opulent motorhomes. These rolling mansions, while impressive, represent the high end of the market and are financially out of reach for many. While manufacturers certainly cater to the luxury segment, some are recognizing the demand for more accessible options. Enter the Coleman Lantern LT series, designed for those seeking adventure without emptying their bank accounts. While many travel trailers are priced below the average new car price in America, the Coleman Lantern LT stands out as the absolute lowest of the low, truly challenging the definition of “least expensive vehicle.” It’s even cheaper than some used cars!
Coleman: A Legacy Brand Embracing Budget-Friendly Camping
Coleman’s name is synonymous with outdoor gear, from iconic lanterns and stoves to coolers and tents. The brand has a long history of making the outdoors accessible to everyone. While you might know Coleman for its camping equipment, they also produce travel trailers under the Dutchmen RV umbrella, which is itself part of the massive Thor Industries. This lineage connects the Coleman Lantern LT to a vast network of RV manufacturing expertise.
Dutchmen, the parent company, has focused on entry-level RVs since its inception in 1988. Coleman’s venture into campers began in 1967 with pop-up tent trailers, quickly becoming the top seller in America by 1979. After some shifts in ownership and brand revivals, Coleman-branded camping trailers are now manufactured by Dutchmen, continuing the tradition of affordable outdoor solutions. The Lantern LT series is a testament to this heritage, offering a no-frills camping experience at a price point that rivals the least expensive new car on the market.
Inside the Lantern LT: Basic but Functional
The Coleman Lantern LT isn’t a newcomer; it has been in production for several years, predating the pandemic. As production has continued, the price has surprisingly decreased, making it an even more compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. Coleman states that the Lantern line is specifically designed to minimize both cost and weight while maximizing the camping experience – focusing on the essentials.
Both the 17B (with bunk beds) and 17R (with more open space) floorplans of the Lantern LT share a length of 21’ 5”. The 17B weighs in at a light 2,985 pounds, while the 17R is slightly heavier at 3,013 pounds. The similarities extend beyond dimensions, as both models share the same cost-saving design philosophy. Stepping inside reveals where those savings are realized.
The exterior immediately signals the Lantern LT’s budget nature. Noticeably absent are power tongue jacks and front stabilizer jacks – features common on many modern trailers. Outdoor speakers, fancy entry steps, and outdoor kitchens are also forgone to keep costs down. The design aesthetic is reminiscent of trailers from the 1990s – a simple box for sleeping and basic living, prioritizing function over frills. The corrugated metal siding further reinforces this retro, no-nonsense approach.
Even the entry door provides a clue to the cost-cutting measures. Instead of robust metal or heavy-duty plastic door holders, the Lantern LT utilizes flimsy plastic arms. These are so basic that even a moderate gust of wind can cause them to bend and detach – a small detail, but indicative of the overall philosophy.
Despite the stripped-down approach, the interior is surprisingly well-equipped with essential living amenities. You’ll find a refrigerator, sink, microwave, stove, a full bathroom (though without a sink in the bathroom itself), a heater, and an air conditioner. Sleeping arrangements are also ample, with a large bed in both floorplans and a dinette that converts into an additional bed. The 17B model further adds bunk beds, maximizing sleeping capacity in a compact space.
However, a closer look reveals how these features are delivered at such a low price. The air conditioner is a simple wall unit, and the heater is a simulated fireplace, neither utilizing ductwork. Heating and cooling are localized, meaning this camper isn’t designed for extreme temperatures, especially a Chicago winter.
Further cost-saving measures are evident throughout the interior. The main bed is a thin pad resting on a hard board, suggesting an upgrade to a more comfortable mattress is advisable. The kitchen sink is a single, basic plastic basin. While you get a flushing toilet and shower, the bathroom lacks its own sink, meaning all washing is done in the kitchen. The stove is a compact two-burner unit, sufficient for basic cooking but not elaborate meals.
Despite these compromises, the Lantern LT does include holding tanks for fresh water, grey water, and waste, each with a 28-gallon capacity – a practical feature for self-contained camping.
From the cabinetry to the countertops, everything in the Coleman Lantern LT is built to a price. The dinette backrest is thin and lightly secured, a reminder of the lightweight construction. It’s not designed for roughhousing. In essence, the Coleman Lantern LT is the RV equivalent of a Mitsubishi Mirage – basic, functional, and incredibly affordable.
However, despite the budget-conscious components, there’s evidence of reasonable assembly quality. No glaring installation errors or factory defects were apparent. Even small details like properly installed light switches are noteworthy, given the extreme focus on cost reduction. The frame is powder-coated, a step up from bare metal and a testament to some level of durability consideration, even in a budget model. Construction is typical for this class of trailer, featuring wood framing, lauan plywood walls, a rubberized roof, and fiberglass insulation. Like any RV, regular roof and seal maintenance will be crucial to prevent leaks and extend its lifespan – a common challenge for RV owners.
The MSRP for the Coleman Lantern LT starts at $13,995, but some dealerships are advertising them for as low as $13,000. With negotiation, the price could potentially be lowered even further. While not intended as a forever RV, the Lantern LT offers a compelling entry point into RV ownership. With diligent maintenance, it could provide years of camping enjoyment. And when its lifespan is over as a primary camper, it could even find new life as a hunting cabin or a backyard guest space.
The Verdict: Affordable Adventure with Realistic Expectations
The Coleman Lantern LT proves that owning a brand-new RV for less than the price of the least expensive new car is indeed possible. It achieves this remarkable affordability through a focus on essential features, basic materials, and a no-frills design. It’s not luxurious, and it’s not built for extreme conditions or heavy use. However, for budget-minded individuals or families seeking an entry-level camper for occasional trips, the Coleman Lantern LT offers undeniable value. It’s a testament to the fact that adventure doesn’t always require a massive investment. Just like the $16,290 Nissan Versa offers basic transportation, the $13,000 Coleman Lantern LT provides a basic, functional, and incredibly affordable way to experience the joys of RV camping. Just remember to temper your expectations and appreciate the incredible value proposition of this truly budget-friendly camper.
