Airstream Trade Wind FAQ

What are the dimensions of an Airstream Trade Wind?

The Airstream Trade Wind comes in two floor plans: the 23FB and the 25FB. Both travel trailers include a factory-installed 3-inch lift kit that adds ground clearance for exploring unpaved roads and remote camping spots.

Trade Wind 23FB:

• Exterior Length: 23 feet 11 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet
• Exterior Height (with A/C and Lift Kit): 9 feet 10.5 inches
• Interior Width: 7 feet 7 inches
• Bed Dimensions: Queen 60 inches x 75 inches or Twin 34 inches x 80 inches

Trade Wind 25FB:

• Exterior Length: 26 feet 2 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 5.5 inches
• Exterior Height (with A/C and Lift Kit): 10 feet
• Interior Width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 7 inches
• Bed Dimensions: Queen 60 inches x 75 inches or Twin 34 inches x 80 inches

Both layouts offer your choice of a queen bed or twin beds in the bedroom. Opting for the twin bed setup opens up the center aisle, providing additional room to move throughout the interior. The factory lift kit gives you better clearance for exploring Adirondack backroads and state forest camping areas.

How many people does an Airstream Trade Wind sleep?

The Trade Wind 23FB accommodates up to four people, while the Trade Wind 25FB accommodates up to five people. Both models feature:

• A queen bed (60 inches x 75 inches) or twin beds (34 inches x 80 inches) in the rear bedroom
• A convertible dinette that changes into sleeping space

The 23FB includes a U-shaped dinette up front that converts into sleeping space for overnight guests. The 25FB has a larger dinette area that can sleep one additional person. Both setups work well whether you're traveling as a couple, bringing family, or hosting friends on your camping adventures.

What kind of vehicle do I need to tow an Airstream Trade Wind?

To safely tow a Trade Wind, you need a vehicle with the right towing capacity. Here are the important weights to know:

Trade Wind 23FB:

• Unit Base Weight: 6,200 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 885 pounds
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 6,300 pounds

Trade Wind 25FB:

• Unit Base Weight: 6,200 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 885 pounds
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 7,300 pounds

Your tow vehicle should have a towing capacity above these GVWR numbers. For the 23FB, look for at least 7,000 pounds of towing capability. For the 25FB, you'll need at least 8,000 pounds or more. Most mid-size and full-size trucks, SUVs, and some larger crossovers can handle these weights.

You'll also need a weight distribution hitch system for proper towing. Always verify your vehicle's owner's manual for its specific towing capacity and requirements. If you're uncertain about your vehicle's compatibility, the team at Airstream of Albany can help match you with the right model.

Where can I get service for an Airstream Trade Wind?

You can get service for your Trade Wind right here at Airstream of Albany! Our dealership is located in Latham, just north of Albany in the Capital Region.

We provide full service and maintenance for all Airstream models, regardless of their age or model year. Our certified Airstream Service Technicians have completed factory training in Jackson Center, Ohio, and continue with ongoing training to stay up to date on the latest features and repair techniques.

From routine maintenance like seal checks and winterization to warranty work and major restoration projects, our service team is here to help. We also maintain an inventory of common Airstream parts to minimize downtime and get you back to camping quickly.

Schedule your service appointment by visiting our service page or calling our dealership directly. We're committed to supporting you throughout your Airstream ownership journey.

What is the learning curve for owning an Airstream Trade Wind?

The good news is that the learning curve for owning an Airstream Trade Wind is reasonable, even if you've never owned an RV before. While there's information to absorb, most new owners feel comfortable within their first few camping trips.

When you purchase from Airstream of Albany, you'll receive a complete delivery walkthrough covering all the systems and features. We suggest taking your first trip to a campground within a couple hours of Latham. This allows you to get familiar with your trailer in a comfortable environment while staying close to home.

Key things to learn include:

• Setting up and leveling your trailer when you arrive at camp
• Connecting utilities (electric, water, and sewer connections)
• Understanding the electrical system and how to monitor batteries
• Using the Smart Control Technology app from your smartphone
• Basic maintenance like inspecting seals and monitoring tire pressure
• Winterization and de-winterization procedures

The Trade Wind comes with features that simplify RV ownership, including four manual heavy-duty stabilizer jacks, a powered hitch jack with light, and Airstream Smart Control Technology that lets you monitor and control various systems from your phone. These modern conveniences make the learning process easier than with older RV models.

Airstream offers plenty of online resources through Airstream Academy, with videos, articles, and answers to common questions. Plus, every new Airstream comes with three years of Coach-Net 24/7 roadside assistance, so professional help is always available when needed.

Most owners report that while the first trip involves learning, by the second or third outing, everything becomes routine. The key is being patient with yourself and remembering that every Airstream owner was once a beginner.

Does owning an Airstream Trade Wind make sense living in New York?

Absolutely! New York is a fantastic state for Airstream ownership, and the Trade Wind is particularly well-suited for Capital Region camping and outdoor adventures.

Camping Seasons: New York offers excellent camping from late spring through mid-fall, with the best weather typically from May through October. Summers provide warm temperatures perfect for exploring the state's lakes, mountains, and parks. Fall camping in New York is spectacular, with incredible foliage displays throughout the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Hudson Valley. The Trade Wind's features make it suitable for cooler spring and fall camping as well.

Outdoor Activities: New York is home to the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park, the Catskill Mountains, Finger Lakes region, and hundreds of state parks. The Trade Wind's manageable size makes it easy to navigate New York's varied campgrounds. Whether you're exploring High Peaks trails, camping along Lake George, visiting Letchworth State Park, or touring the Hudson Valley, the Trade Wind fits perfectly into the New York outdoor lifestyle.

Off-Grid Power: The Trade Wind comes standard with 600 watts of solar panels and a substantial 810Ah lithium battery bank. This allows you to camp off-grid in New York's more remote locations, from backcountry Adirondack sites to state forest campgrounds. You can run the air conditioner and microwave simultaneously without shore power, which is valuable for warm summer days.

Equipment Features: The Trade Wind's 30,000 BTU ducted furnace and air conditioning with heat pump handle New York's temperature variations beautifully. The furnace is especially important for spring and fall camping when nights can be chilly. The enclosed, insulated, heated underbelly provides protection during cooler weather camping. The 3-inch suspension lift kit and rugged Goodyear Wrangler tires let you access forest service roads and backcountry camping areas throughout the state.

Local Support: With Airstream of Albany located in Latham, you have convenient local service and support. This makes maintenance, repairs, and upgrades simple throughout your ownership without lengthy travel.

Storage and Winterization: New York winters require proper preparation for your trailer. You'll need to winterize your Trade Wind before freezing temperatures arrive, or store it in a heated indoor facility. Many Capital Region owners winterize their trailers and store them either at home with protective covers or at dedicated storage facilities. Proper winterization protects your plumbing system from freeze damage. When spring returns, you'll need to de-winterize before hitting the road. Our service team at Airstream of Albany can help with both winterization and de-winterization.

The Trade Wind's build quality, including its riveted aluminum shell and quality insulation, makes it well-suited for New York's four-season climate. From summer weekends in the Adirondacks to autumn tours of wine country, this Airstream is built for New York adventures.