Airstream Trade Wind FAQ

What are the dimensions of an Airstream Trade Wind?

The Airstream Trade Wind is offered in two floor plans: the 23FB and the 25FB. Both travel trailers feature a factory-installed 3-inch lift kit that provides added ground clearance for exploring desert roads and high-country camping areas.

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 give you the choice of a queen bed or twin beds in the bedroom area. Selecting the twin bed configuration opens up the center aisle, creating more space to move throughout the interior. The factory lift kit delivers improved clearance for exploring New Mexico's forest service roads and desert camping locations.

How many people does an Airstream Trade Wind sleep?

The Trade Wind 23FB can sleep up to four people, while the Trade Wind 25FB can sleep up to five people. Both models include:

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

The 23FB has a U-shaped dinette in the front section that converts into sleeping space for guests. The 25FB features a more spacious dinette area with room for an additional sleeper. Both configurations work well whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or hosting friends during 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 adequate towing capacity. Here are the essential weights to consider:

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 tow these weights.

You'll also need a weight distribution hitch system for proper towing. Always verify your vehicle's owner's manual for its exact towing capacity and requirements. If you're uncertain about your vehicle's suitability, the team at Airstream of New Mexico 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 New Mexico! Our dealership is located in Albuquerque, centrally positioned to serve the entire state.

We provide full service and maintenance for all Airstream models, regardless of their age or year of manufacture. 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 preparing your trailer for storage 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 your 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 learning to own an Airstream Trade Wind is reasonable, even if this is your first RV. While there's information to absorb, most new owners feel comfortable after just a few camping trips.

When you buy from Airstream of New Mexico, you'll receive a thorough delivery walkthrough that covers all the systems and features. We suggest taking your first trip to a campground within a couple hours of Albuquerque. This allows you to get familiar with your trailer in a comfortable environment while staying relatively 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 battery monitoring
• Using the Smart Control Technology app from your phone
• Basic maintenance like inspecting seals and checking tire pressure
• Getting your trailer ready for storage between trips

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 smartphone. 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 Mexico?

Absolutely! New Mexico is an ideal state for Airstream ownership, and the Trade Wind is particularly well-suited for Land of Enchantment camping and outdoor adventures.

Year-Round Camping: New Mexico offers camping opportunities throughout the entire year. The state's high desert climate and 310 days of sunshine annually mean you can camp in any season. Spring brings wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. Summer camping at higher elevations provides relief from the heat. Fall offers perfect weather across the state with beautiful aspen displays in the mountains. Winter camping is popular in lower elevations where temperatures stay mild and sunny.

Outdoor Adventures: New Mexico is home to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, White Sands National Park, numerous national monuments, and vast public lands. The Trade Wind's manageable size makes it easy to navigate New Mexico's varied campgrounds. Whether you're exploring the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, camping in the Gila Wilderness, visiting Santa Fe, hiking in the Jemez Mountains, or stargazing in dark sky parks, the Trade Wind fits perfectly into the New Mexico outdoor lifestyle.

Off-Grid Power: The Trade Wind comes standard with 600 watts of solar panels and a substantial 810Ah lithium battery bank. New Mexico's abundant sunshine and clear skies make these solar panels incredibly effective year-round. You can run the air conditioner and microwave simultaneously without shore power, which is especially valuable for desert camping and dispersed camping on public lands.

Equipment Features: The Trade Wind's 30,000 BTU ducted furnace and air conditioning with heat pump handle New Mexico's temperature variations perfectly. The air conditioning is important for warm days, while the furnace handles cool mountain nights and winter camping at elevation. The 3-inch suspension lift kit and rugged Goodyear Wrangler tires are perfect for New Mexico's varied terrain, from desert two-tracks to mountain forest roads. The rear hatch door makes it easy to load hiking gear, mountain bikes, and camping equipment.

High Altitude Performance: New Mexico's high elevation (Albuquerque sits at over 5,000 feet) means the Trade Wind performs well throughout the state. The lithium battery system and solar panels work efficiently at altitude, and the propane furnace and appliances are designed to function properly in high-elevation conditions.

Local Support: With Airstream of New Mexico located in Albuquerque, you have convenient local service and support. This makes maintenance, repairs, and upgrades simple throughout your ownership.

Storage Considerations: New Mexico's dry climate is excellent for RV storage. Many Albuquerque area owners keep their Trade Wind at home or in nearby storage facilities year-round. While winters can be cold at higher elevations, winterization requirements depend on where you store your trailer and whether you plan to camp during winter. If storing at elevation or planning to leave your trailer unused during freezing weather, basic winterization is recommended. Many New Mexico owners camp year-round by heading to lower, warmer elevations during winter months.

The Trade Wind's aluminum construction and quality insulation work beautifully in New Mexico's dry climate. From weekend trips to the mountains to exploring desert landscapes, this Airstream is built for New Mexico adventures.