8 Cool Pop-Up Campers with AC to Beat the Heat


Pop Up Camper with AC

Gone are the days when camping in a pop-up meant sweating it out in a stuffy uncomfortable tent, as today’s top-of-the-line pop-up campers come with a variety of comfort features, including air conditioning, full kitchens, and even bathrooms.

However, it’s not always easy to find these best-in-class models, as many pop-up campers either don’t offer air conditioning at all or only as an available option.

So we created this list highlighting some of the best pop-up campers with AC that offer this highly sought-after feature standard.

Best Pop-Up Campers with AC:

1. Forest River Rockwood Tent Limited Series 1940LTD

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $13,500
  • Dry Weight: 1,685 lbs
  • Closed Length: 13′ 9″
  • Open Length: 20′ 2″
  • Slide-Outs: None
  • Sleeping Capacity: 6
  • AC Type: Roof-mounted AC (13,500 BTU)

The Forest River Rockwood 1940LTD has been a popular pop-up camper for years, combining simplicity with comfort.

This 10-foot box pop-up features a straightforward layout with a front queen bed, rear full bed, dinette, and kitchenette. Making it a great choice for families or couples looking for a comfortable camping experience without sacrificing basic amenities.

What sets this model apart from other pop-ups though is its roof-mounted air conditioner and power lift system, as these features provide significant comfort and convenience, especially in hot weather. The power lift system also makes setup easier, compensating for the added weight of the AC unit.

Forest River Rockwood Tent Limited Series 1940LTD Floorplan

Forest River Rockwood Tent 1940LTD Floorplan

The 1940LTD also offers several other premium features, including carpetless, ventless flooring for easy cleaning, a direct venting furnace for efficient heating, and a full one-piece entry door. As well as heated mattresses, a portable cooktop that can be used inside and outside, a three-way refrigerator (12V, shore power, and propane), roof solar prep, and a side solar prep plug.

With its compact size and luxury features this Forest River floorplan offers a good balance of amenities and camping authenticity, perfect for those who want to upgrade from tent camping without going full “glamping.” Plus, thanks to this pop-up camper’s ultra-lightweight it can be pulled by a wide variety of tow vehicles.

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood Tent Limited Series 1940LTD, visit Forest River’s website by clicking here.


2. Aliner Evolution 12: A-Frame Camper with AC

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $32,000
  • Dry Weight: 2,000 lbs
  • Closed Length: 15′
  • Slide-Outs: None
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • AC Type: Side-mounted AC/heat pump

The Aliner Evolution E12 is a compact, hard-sided pop-up camper that combines the convenience of an A-frame design with modern amenities.

This lightweight camper is designed for adventurers who want to go off the beaten path without sacrificing comfort.

The Evolution E12 features a unique lifted design with rugged tires, providing extra clearance and good off-road capability.

Its exterior boasts a large solar panel on the dormer roof, perfect for boondocking. The camper also includes three exterior storage compartments, an outside shower, and an additional solar port.

Aliner Evolution 12 Floorplan

Aliner Evolution 12 A-Frame Camper Floorplan

Inside, the E12 offers a surprisingly spacious layout. The front area features a dinette that converts to a bed, while the rear houses a queen-sized sleeper sofa. The kitchen area includes a two-burner propane stove that can be used inside or outside, a sink with hot and cold water, and a 3.0 cubic-foot 3-way refrigerator.

Plus, with its hard-sided walls and dormers, the Evolution E12 provides better insulation than traditional pop-ups, which allows the standard side-mounted air conditioner to cool the camper faster and keep it cool more easily.

For more information on the Aliner Evolution E12, visit Aliner’s website here.


3. Forest River Rockwood Tent High Wall Series HW277

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $22,000
  • Dry Weight: 3,334 lbs
  • Closed Length: 19′ 3″
  • Open Length: 25′ 9″
  • Slide-Outs: 1 (U-shaped dinette)
  • Sleeping Capacity: 6
  • AC Type: Roof-mounted AC (13,500 BTU)

The Forest River Rockwood High Wall HW277 is a premium pop-up camper that offers the comforts of a travel trailer in a more compact, towable package.

This “suitcase camper” is designed for those who want full-fledged amenities without the bulk of a traditional travel trailer.

The HW277 features an impressive interior with a ceiling height of over 7 feet when fully extended, making it feel spacious and open. It includes a large U-shaped dinette slide-out, further expanding the living area. The camper sleeps six people comfortably, with a king-sized bed (70″ x 80″) in the front, a queen-sized bed (60″ x 80″) in the rear, and a convertible U-shaped dinette booth.

Forest River Rockwood Tent High Wall Series HW277 Floorplan

Forest River Rockwood Tent High Wall Series HW277 Floorplan

This pop-up camper with AC also offers a full kitchen, complete with a double-basin sink, oven, microwave, and a three-way refrigerator (12V, propane, and shore power). As well as ample counter space and storage.

One of the biggest stand-out features of this luxury pop-up though is its fully self-contained bathroom, complete with a toilet/shower and fresh, gray, and black water tanks, as opposed to a cassette toilet found in most pop-ups.

Outside, the HW277 offers a camp kitchen with a griddle, two-burner stove, and sink. It also features a power lift system, making setup easier. And most importantly for this list, the camper also comes with a roof-mounted air conditioner, furnace, and a MaxAir vent fan for climate control.

Additional standard features include heated mattresses, multiple storage compartments, a Thule awning, solar prep, and stabilizer jacks.

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood High Wall HW277, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here.


4. TAXA Outdoors Mantis: Trailer with AC

Quick Specs:

  • Starting Cost: $45,750
  • Dry Weight: 3,115 lbs (Standard) / 3,486 lbs (Overland)
  • Closed Length: 19′
  • Slide-Outs: None
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • AC Type: Side-mounted AC (8,000 BTU)

The TAXA Mantis is a unique pop-up camper designed for adventurers who want to combine off-grid capabilities with modern comforts. This NASA-inspired habitat offers a spacious interior, yet remains compact enough to fit in a standard garage when closed.

The Mantis features a pop-up roof that increases interior height from 4 feet 7 inches when closed to up to 7 feet 10 inches when open. It sleeps 4 adults comfortably, with a full-size bed (78″ x 54″) and a folding couch-to-bunk bed system. The interior is also cleverly designed with flexible spaces that can be configured for various activities.

Key features of the TAXA Mantis include a full galley kitchen equipped with a 2-burner stove, sink, and space for a cooler. The camper also offers a standing shower with a portable cassette toilet for added convenience, as well as a 20-gallon fresh water tank and a 22-gallon grey water tank for off-grid camping.

TAXA Outdoors Mantis Floorplan

TAXA Outdoors Mantis Trailer Floorplan

The Mantis comes in two versions: standard and Overland. The Overland edition offers increased ground clearance (14″ vs 11″), larger tires, and a more robust suspension system for off-road adventures.

With large windows and a rear hatch, the Mantis can be opened for an indoor-outdoor living experience, which is increased even further thanks to the camper’s 8-foot awning (180° Batwing awning in the Overland version).

When the outside temperature starts to rise though, the Mantis comes equipped with an 8,000 BTU side-mounted air conditioner, perfect for keeping cool during summer camping trips.

For more information on the TAXA Outdoors Mantis, visit Taxa Outdoor’s website here.


5. Aliner Expedition: A-Frame Pop-Up Camper with AC

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $28,500
  • Dry Weight: 1,850 lbs
  • Closed Length: 18′
  • Slide-Outs: None
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • AC Type: Side-mounted AC/heat pump

The Aliner Expedition is a hard-sided A-frame camper that offers the comfort of a travel trailer with the convenience of a pop-up.

When closed, it’s only 68 inches tall, making it garage-friendly. However, when opened it offers full standing height, featuring an 8-foot peak height.

This A-frame camper from Aliner offers a spacious interior with a queen bed or convertible sofa, a convertible dinette, and a full galley kitchen with a 3-cubic foot 3-way refrigerator, microwave, two-burner stove, and sink. The camper also includes a cassette toilet (optional) and plenty of storage options.

Aliner Expedition A-Frame Pop-Up Camper Floorplan

Aliner Expedition Sofa Bed Floorplan

The Expedition also comes standard with an 11-gallon fresh water tank, water heater, water pump, furnace, and a Command air conditioner/heat pump. It also features a Fantastic Fan for ventilation, three interior electrical outlets, and an exterior outlet.

Optional features include hard or soft dormers for additional headroom and light, an outside grill, and an extreme off-road package with a heavier axle and off-road tires.

Thanks to its lightweight design the camper is also towable by many smaller tow vehicles, including SUVs and small trucks. And because of its fold-out A-frame design, this pop-up camper with AC can be set up in as little as 30 seconds.

For more information on the Aliner Expedition, check out Aliner’s website here.


6. Forest River Rockwood Hard Side Pop-up Campers A213HS

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $20,000
  • Dry Weight: 2,728 lbs
  • Closed Length: 20′ 4″
  • Slide-Outs: None
  • Sleeping Capacity: 3
  • AC Type: Side-Mounted Under Bunk AC (11,000 BTU)

The Forest River Rockwood Hard Side Pop-up Camper A213HS is a unique blend of travel trailer durability and pop-up convenience.

This model offers the compactness of a pop-up when closed, with a height of just 5 feet 8 inches, making it easier to tow and store compared to traditional travel trailers.

The A213HS is also built using hard-sided pop-up construction, providing better insulation and durability compared to traditional tent pop-ups.

Forest River Rockwood Hard Side Pop-up Campers A213HS Floorplan

Forest River Rockwood Hard Side Pop-up Campers A213HS Floorplan

In addition, the camper also comes standard with an 11,000 BTU under bunk AC and a separate furnace for year-round climate control, as well as a full kitchen, featuring a 3-burner range with cover and a 12V refrigerator. The A213HS is also solar-ready, equipped with a 100W roof solar panel and an additional solar port.

While this hard-sided pop-up doesn’t offer a full bathroom, it does at least have a portable port-a-potty, which allows you to skip those late-night treks to the campground bathhouse.

For more detailed information and to take a 3D tour of the Forest River Rockwood Hard Side Pop-up Campers A213HS, visit Forest River’s website here.


7. Black Series HQ12: Base Model with AC

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $45,000
  • Dry Weight: 5,080 lbs
  • Closed Length: 19′
  • Slide-Outs: None
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • AC Type: Roof-mounted AC (13,500 BTU)

The Black Series HQ12 is one of the most rugged pop-top campers on the market. Designed for off-road and overlanding adventures, this hybrid trailer offers a unique blend of durability and comfort.

Key off-road features of the HQ12 include an articulating hitch for improved maneuverability on rough terrain and independent suspension with off-road tires for enhanced capability.

The pop-top roof design increases interior headroom while keeping the overall height to a minimum when in travel mode.

Black Series HQ12 Floorplan

Black Series HQ12 Base Model Floorplan

Inside, there’s a compact but functional kitchen with a two-burner cooktop and small refrigerator, as well as a surprisingly spacious wet bath with shower and toilet.

The HQ12 is also equipped with solar panels and a comprehensive power management system for off-grid adventures. These features combine to make the HQ12 a capable and comfortable option for overlanding enthusiasts.

Built with overlanding in mind, the HQ12 boasts a durable exterior with rock guards, ample ground clearance, and multiple tie-down points.

As you might have noticed from the quick specs above, however, all these impressive off-road capabilities and features, come at a cost, as the Black Series HQ12 is one of the most expensive pop-top campers on the market.

If you’re looking for a pop-up camper with AC and excellent off-road capabilities though, the HQ12 is worth checking out.

For more information on the Black Series HQ12, visit the Black Series website here.


8. OPUS OP15: Hybrid Pop-Up Camper with AC

Quick Specs:

  • Average Cost: $50,000
  • Dry Weight: 5,159 lbs
  • Closed Length: 21′ 5″
  • Open Length: 23′ 4″
  • Slide-Outs: 1 (Rear Bed)
  • Sleeping Capacity: 4
  • AC Type: Dometic Rooftop AC (13,500 BTU)

The OPUS OP15 is a robust hybrid pop-up camper designed for off-road adventures and Overlanding, featuring impressive off-road capability with independent trailing arm coil spring suspension and off-road tires.

Inside, this pop-up camper with AC offers a spacious interior with over 6 feet 7 inches of headroom when set up and sleeping space for up to 4 adults with a king bed and two bunks.

A full bathroom with shower, sink, and flush toilet adds to the comfort and convenience of this camper, which comes in handy when camping in the backcountry away from campground facilities.

OPUS OP15 Floorplan

OPUS OP15 Floorplan

The OP15 is equipped with a powerful electrical system, including 300W solar panels and 300Ah AGM batteries (upgradable to lithium), ensuring ample power for all your off-grid adventures. In addition, ample water capacity (63 gallons fresh, 17 gallons grey, 10 gallons black) allows for extended trips.

Climate control is managed by a Truma Combi Eco furnace/hot water system and a Dometic Rooftop AC, it’s worth pointing out though that the AC only runs on 120AC power. This means for the AC to work you’ll either need to be plugged into shore power or have a generator.

With its rugged construction and comprehensive features, the OPUS OP15 is well-suited for adventurers who want to explore off the beaten path without sacrificing comfort.

Just be prepared to spend some money, as this premium pop-top overlanding camper comes with a hefty price tag.

For more information on the OPUS OP15, visit OPUS’s website by clicking here.

Pop-Up Camper with AC: FAQs

While most pop-up campers lack AC, many higher-end models include roof-mounted ACs as a standard or optional feature. Brands like Forest River, Coachmen, Jayco, and Aliner offer pop-up campers with AC.

To keep a pop-up camper cool in summer without AC use reflective window coverings, set up in shaded areas, use awnings, maximize ventilation with fans, keep doors closed during the day, cook outside, and use a portable AC unit if possible.

You can add AC to a pop-up camper. Options include roof-mounted units, portable floor units, or window units. Installation difficulty varies, with roof-mounted units typically requiring professional installation, while portable units are easier for DIY setup.

Adding AC to a pop-up camper typically costs between $500 to $2,000. A basic portable unit can cost $200-$500, while a roof-mounted unit with professional installation can range from $1,000 to $2,000 or more, depending on the model and labor costs.

Running an AC with solar power in a pop-up camper is challenging due to high power requirements. It’s possible with a large solar array (1000W+), substantial battery bank, and efficient AC unit, but it’s often impractical for most pop-up camper setups.

For most pop-up campers, a 5,000 to 8,000 BTU AC unit is sufficient. Larger units (10,000-13,500 BTU) may be needed for bigger campers or extremely hot climates.

Generally, pop-up campers with AC are more expensive than those without. The price difference can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the pop-up and brand. However, this cost is typically worth it for most RVers, as it adds significant comfort and value to the pop-up.

Additional Pop-up Camper Resources:

Jason Kidd

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

Recent Posts