Price Versus Condition - Vintage Airstream

Vintage Airstream Values

The question that always gets asked by newcomers and existing owners alike is, “What is an older Airstream worth?” There isn’t any Kelley Blue Book for older trailers, and the NADA Guide stops at 20 years. The premise is that beyond that point, the trailer is fully depreciated and any value left is intrinsic. Such value is very subjective and can vary by current economic conditions, geographical region, and the desires of the seller and buyer. What we hope to impart here is an awareness of the thought process behind how to arrive at a fair price between a willing seller and buyer. This way of arriving at a price is based on the Market Value (“comp” value) appraisal method. In our case, we take the determined value of the trailer in a set condition (Benchmark Value) and then subtract the costs necessary to make the trailer under appraisal equal to that trailer benchmark. The idea is simple, but it requires time to become familiar with values and costs.

Step 1: Determine the benchmark price

To determine this benchmark value, watch the ads for Bring a Trailer, Tin Can Tourists, and Vintage Camper Trailers. Vintage trailers roughly fall into three categories: restored, average, and “As found” (see Table A). This is where it becomes important to not jump at the first Airstream you come across, waiting until you are familiar with what’s available out there. For the impatient, I’ve prepared a rough “guide” of Airstream prices (Table B). A couple of words of caution:
Just because a price is listed in an ad doesn’t mean it sold for that price. We usually discount prices by 15% (for buyer counteroffers) and don’t use obviously absurd prices. Prices will always be higher on eBay because you have greater exposure to many potential buyers, and little effort is required from both parties to initiate interest.
It is also human nature to understate what they bought and overstate what they sold something for. Consider this when talking to folks about what a trailer sold for. Also, eBay prices can fool you. One in five sales fall through because the buyer backs out when they see the trailer, or the buyer never follows through. You have to watch for relists and feedback.

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Test Case Example: What is the value of a 1961 24′ Tradewind, routinely used each season, but with deferred items needing repair and determined to be just worse than Average condition? Per Table B below, the benchmark for an average condition in the 1960s Tradewind in 2024 is $17,001–$32,112. If your fine-tuned research has shown “that a 1961 Tradewind sells for more than a 1968 Tradewind on the West Coast in the middle of winter,” then use your value here.

Step 2: Apples to Apples …

If you were looking at a fully “restored,” “average,” or “as found” trailer for sale, your homework is done—you’ve solved the “What is it worth?” equation. But what if the trailer is somewhere in between, as is the usual case? This is the second step, subtracting anticipated repair costs from the benchmark value. Once again, to keep from paying too much, you have to do some research. How much does it cost to have something repaired, replaced, or overhauled? I’ve provided a table of shortcuts (Table C), but for those items where a price is not listed, multiply what you would expect the repair to take by the shop labor rate ($129–$189/hr at dealerships, $100–$150/hr at independent shops, and $140–$170/hr for mobile repairs, based on warranties and insurance claims) and then estimate parts and materials. Study the links to suppliers and become familiar with parts costs. The key is assigning a value to items that need to be repaired. It will all average out. This is also when it pays to inspect the trailer from front to back or have it inspected by a mechanic or Airstream-knowledgeable person. Not only should obvious items be looked at, but the originality and finish should also be scrutinized. It is amazing how fast restoration and repair costs can add up, even on items that appear to be OK at first glance; after all, you are dealing with 25- to 55-year-old RVs.

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This is where we now take our Tradewind example and adjust it for its shortcomings. Let’s say it has a soft floor near the door, someone has installed a cheap plastic RV toilet, the cabinets have some water damage, the LP tanks are not current OPD, the trailer lights don’t work and the front skylight is a piece of plywood. Using Table C, the total anticipated equalizing cost comes to $2,200 in our example.

Step 3: Simple subtraction

Take the total equalizing fix-it cost from Step 2 above and subtract it from your benchmark value from Step 1. If you are in your right mind, this should be the price to pay for the trailer under scrutiny. But it is very possible that you end up with a price far below the asking price, or even a negative number. We call this the Airstream price/condition axiom. “The more perfect condition a trailer is in, with minimal deferred repairs and damage, the better the deal.” You will always come out ahead by paying more up front and getting a well-maintained Airstream in as good a condition as possible.

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Using our Tradewind example, we subtract the adjustment estimate of $2,200 from the benchmark value of $17,001–$32,112, arriving at a fair market value price of $14,801–$29,912. This is a realistic price range for a 1960s-early ’70s Tradewind in just less-than-average condition.

Step 4: Labor of Love

What if your net adjusted price is less than, maybe even much less than the asking price? You have three options.

Make a reasonable offer, or
Run the other direction. There are plenty of Airstreams out there, or
Evaluate the acquisition based on what price you place on convenience and how it meets the needs of what drove you to want a vintage Airstream in the first place. This could be such things as the interior condition not being important because you plan to build your own custom interior, to the other extreme of the importance of a completely original but poor condition interior. Also, what if you are able to do most of the work yourself, paying only for materials and parts? Here is where the therapeutic factor and satisfaction of restoration and rescue come into play. If you are able to adjust the repair costs in Step 2 downward by excluding labor, then doing so will result in some of the less fortunate trailers moving back into the positive region; it then becomes a “labor of love”, instead of making economic sense.

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Using our Tradewind example again, let’s say the seller asked $17,000; you talk them down to $16,000, leaving a spread of $1,000. The questions come down to:

Is this exactly what I’ve been looking for?
Have I looked at many Airstreams now, or is this the first one that came along? Too often, buyers will buy the first trailer they come across, ignoring common sense and economics.
Do I have the talent and time to do some, if not all, of the labor realistically?

These questions will or will not justify the difference between a sensible buy and the price of convenience.

A note about “For Sale” ad prices

The above exercise raises the question of how those sellers arrived at their prices.

Sellers probably determine their asking price by doing the same thing you should: Studying what other trailers are listed for and then setting their price higher or lower based on economic need and how they feel their trailer compares to other examples.
This is also where you can pick up “deals;” unwitting sellers setting low asking prices, unaware of current market values.

Caution: If you see a trailer relisted in ads, that indicates that the seller did not get their asking price the first time and that the first sale price should not be counted.

When purchasing or selling vintage Airstreams, or used Airstreams in general, it’s crucial to remain aware of common scams designed to trap unsuspecting buyers and sellers. One of the more prevalent scams involves the buyer offering to purchase a trailer, sight unseen, and sending a cashier’s check via a shipper who will also pick up the trailer. What’s the catch? The cashier’s check is fake, and the trailer is long gone by the time the seller realizes it. To protect yourself from this or similar scenarios, always verify the legitimacy of the payment and insist on meeting in person whenever possible. Remain vigilant and aware of the most recent scams. Trust your gut to avoid falling victim to these schemes.

Table A: Condition

“Average” Condition

The definition of “average condition” is:

The definition of “average condition” is:
The shell should have no more than one or two very small shallow dents and no punctures or scrapes.
It is most likely not polished, and if the clear coat is still on it, it may be peeling in certain locations.
All original exterior vents and doors will be present, and the windows should not be broken. They should have working openers and close securely.
The interior furnishings (cabinets, fixtures, appliances, and linings) should be 90% or more original and in good condition.
The soft goods (curtains, mattresses, and upholstery) may be worn originals or recently replaced. This area makes no difference to value since most everyone will replace these during a restoration to suit.
All the original appliances, such as a heater, water heater, A/C, and refrigerator, work. If replaced, they should be of appropriate size and design.
The electrical, propane, and water systems should all be fully functional.
The tires, including the spare, aren’t cracked from UV damage, and the brakes are in good working order. The owner should have invoices showing fairly recent shock absorber replacement and wheel bearing repacking.
External features such as utility connections and servicing ports are fully functional.
The sub-floor shall be solid throughout with no soft spots. The original or replacement floor covering should be in good, unstained condition.
Outdated items such as hydraulic brakes and split-rim wheels may or may not have been replaced.
The trailer has seen regular annual use and care.

These are also the types of questions you can ask a seller to determine the condition of a trailer.

“As Found” Condition

The definition of an “as found” is a trailer having some of the following:

Larger or numerous dents, punctures, or scrapes.
Missing some of the exterior vents, doors, or windows.
Interior furnishings and features are less than 75% original or water-damaged.
Some of the original appliances, such as the furnace, water heater, stove, and refrigerator, are missing.
The electrical, propane, and water systems aren’t functional.
The tires, including the spare, are cracked from UV damage, and the condition of the axle components is unknown.
External features such as utility connections and servicing ports are damaged or missing.
The sub-floor has soft spots or rot damage.
The cabinetry or interior walls have been painted over in other than original finishes.
The trailer hasn’t been used or maintained in many years.
Modifications may have been made to the layout or systems.

Most of the trailers that end up for sale fall into this category.

“Restored” Condition

The Restored term is often misused (see “Renovated” condition below). Most Airstreams are in a state of “undergoing renovation or restoration”. Truly Restored means:

Interior

The interior layout is original or typical of the period and Airstream design (no computer desk instead of sofas, wet bars, moon roofs, or kitty doors).
Interior components are aesthetically original (may have improved function or internals).
Interior components and appliances have been cleaned, repaired, and restored to a serviceable condition with no damage or degradation, using appropriate materials and methods.
Unique features, appliances, and fixtures specific to that model and year should still be present (Propane lamps, Service Control Centers, Byam burners, and Panel-ready heaters are examples).
Replacements or additions to appliances and fixtures should have been done with correct period units or with modern units installed in such a way they blend into the layout.
Cabinetry, shrouds, and linings should be original or replaced using period materials and methods.
The cabinetry finish should be applied as per the original (painted, varnished, or oiled wood). Interior wall linings should be as per the original—green/tan paint (’40s), Zolatone Paint (1952+), or Vinyl lining (1970s).
Upholstery and soft goods should be clean, in good condition, and in period cloth or neutral/earth tones.
Any sub-floor rot has been removed and repaired or replaced. Floor Covering should be clean, solid, and made from appropriate materials. Carpeting, Linoleum, or vinyl tiles are the norm.
The plumbing system should be complete and leak-free. The water system should supply water from an onboard tank through a hand pump, demand pump, or compressor, as appropriate. The street water system should supply water to all the appropriate fixtures.
The wiring should be in a safe condition. Any modifications should be to the code. Electrical fixtures should be original or period reproductions.
Potable water tanks should have been cleaned & disinfected. Any new tanks should be installed unobtrusively.
The toilet should be an original or equivalent replacement (porcelain for porcelain, etc.)
Any new black or gray water tanks should be installed unobtrusively.

Exterior

If any major dents, scrapes, and punctures have been removed or repaired, minor shallow dents (small hail dents or bumps) are OK.
The exterior skin has been polished within the last few years. It does not have to be clear-coated. The panel edge seams and openings have been neatly sealed with Parbond, Vulkem, or similar sealant.
Belly Skin is complete and secure.
The original window weather-stripping is tight or has been correctly replaced.
Window openers all work. All screens are present & in good condition.
The door works smoothly; the hinge is in good condition, and handles, locks & latches are in good working order and are original or appropriate replacements.
Roof vent mechanisms are working originals or appropriate-looking replacements.
Running gear (brakes, tires, bearings, shocks, springs) are in good working order and condition. Should have records showing servicing dates within the last four years. Wheels (rims) are appropriate with hubcaps (baby moon) pie-plate hubcaps or spoked aluminum for the later models. It is OK to have the original split-rim wheels replaced. It is OK to have original hydraulic brakes converted to electric brakes. It is preferable to keep the original hydraulic hardware in place.
Propane tanks have OPD valves and are polished aluminum or silver-painted steel.
All exterior vent fittings are original or appropriate replacements.
Exterior lamps are working originals or newer historical reproductions. Trailer wiring works, and the wire harness is in good condition.
All exterior placards & nameplates should be present and have been repainted if necessary.
The tongue and bumper shouldn’t have any exposed rust and should be painted silver.
Any attached awnings are ZipDee or A&E and are in good working order. Extra points are available for original or reproduction free-standing pole/staked awnings.
The step should be original, painted silver, and in good working condition.

“Renovated” Condition

This defines trailers that have been fixed up but do not maintain originality (see Table D). They are in the same functional condition as the restored ones but don’t meet the originality requirements. These may have been used as a low-cost family camper for specialized applications (live-in, office, etc.), or rescues of previously neglected trailers. They may have layouts not found in the original or have non-period cabinetry and finishes. Appliances and fixtures are usually modernized. The interior usually has been custom painted (non-Airstream original). Valuation usually falls somewhere between “Restored” and “As Found”. How far is determined by how close the buyer and seller’s preferences and tastes are.

“Custom Renovations” are classified as completed re-dos of an Airstream from the ground up like those from Vintage-Vacations and other full-time commercial restoration outfits. They can run from the high $30K’s to well over $80K. Such re-dos rarely recover the initial cost of the mod when resold. Customized trailers are meant just for the satisfaction of the customer. Once again, when buying a used trailer, it will always be in the best condition and deal, no matter the price. If you can purchase one of these trailers, you will always have money ahead of you, compared to paying to do it on your trailer.

Table B: Vintage Price Guide

Every collectible book you open has a price guide in the back, so why not a website? They are not “official” or gospel, just the author’s take on what he or she sees as ballpark prices for items. That sums up this table and is intended to be just a guide for those who haven’t formed their own opinion of values based on experience. This price guide is based on adjusted sale ad asking prices and known sales from talking to buyers/sellers. Higher prices are summertime West Coast prices. Make sure to understand the condition criteria. Most Airstreams sold fall between “As Found” and Average condition. With that said:

CAUTION!! Do not use the values listed here until you have read and understand the text relating to conditions and the items that influence the price. Too many people automatically assume their trailer is in Average or Restored condition. Restored trailers are very rare, and unless a trailer has been well maintained and used, it will not be in Average condition.

Era	Size/Model	“As Found” (See Table A)	“Average” Condition (See Table A)	Restored (See Table A)**
Post War	1940’sPipe Frames
	16′ Wee Wind	$7,000– $18,000	$20,000–$40,000	$50,000–$70,000
	18′-19′ Trailwind & Clipper	$4,000–$11,000	$23,000–$43,000	$50,000–$70,000
	22′ Liner	$9,000– $12,000	$17,000–$34,000	$50,000–$70,000
The 1950s	(1951–1960)
	15′ Cruisette	$8,000– $13,000	$24,000–$35,000	$40,000–$60,000
	16′ Bubble	$9,000– $13,000	$25,000–$40,000	$77,000–$100,000
	17′ Clipper	$5,000– $9,000	$10,000 – $12,000	$13,000 – $15,000
	16′ Pacer	$5,000– $9,000	$10,000–$24,000	$25,000–$30,000
	18′ Globetrotter/Caravel/ Traveler/ Pacer/Other	$6,000– $11,000	$15,000–$25,000	$30,000–$38,000
	21′-22′ Safari/Flying Cloud/Caravanner/ Custom	$4,000– $9,000	$21,000–$37,000	$66,000–$96,000
	24′ Tradewind (1959+)	$4,000 –$10,000	$17,891–$32,000	$61,000–$95,000
	26′ Cruiser/Overlander	$3,000–$7,000	$17,000–$29,000	$60,000–$90,000
	28′ Ambassador	$6,000–$9,000	$12,000–$28,000	$30,00–$40,000
	30′ Liner/Sovereign	$4,000–$6,000	$15,000–$18,000	$18,000–$20,000
The 1960s	(1961–1968)
	16′ Bambi	$3,000– $10,000	$11,000–$30,000	$50,000–$80,000
	17′ Bambi II/Caravel	$3,000– $5,000	$22,000–$30,000	$65,000–$115,000
	19’–20′ Globetrotter	$3,000– $10,000	$20,000–$39,000	$50,000–$97,880
	22′ Safari/Flying Cloud/Caravanner	$3,000– $9,000	$15,000–$30,000	$50,000–$90,000
	24′ Tradewind	$3,000– $10,000	$17,000–$32,000	$61,000–$92,000
	26′ Overlander	$3,000– $7,000	$15,000–$30,000	$50,000–$90,000
	28′ Ambassador	$2,000– $6,000	$10,000–$27,000	$61,000–$105,000
	30′ Sovereign	$3,000– $6,000	$10,000–$29,000	$61,000–$95,000
The 1970s	(1969–1981)
	18′ Caravel	$6,000– $13,000	$15,000–$25,000	$30,000–$50,000
	21′ Globetrotter	$5,000– $12,000	$15,000–$20,000	$25,000–$60,000
	23′ Safari/Caravanner	$3,300– $10,700	$12,000–$18,000	$25,000–$70,000
	25′ Tradewind	$3,000– $10,000	$16,000–$25,000	$59,000–$90,000
	27′ Overlander	$4,000– $8,000	$13,000–$25,000	$57,000–$92,000
	29′ Ambassador	$3,000– $8,000	$15,000–$34,000	$57,000–$98,000
	31′ Sovereign	$5,000– $8,000	$15,000–$38,000	$57,000–$97,000
	31′ Excella 500	$5,000– $12,000	$21,000–$42,000	$60,000–$96,000
				* Too few known sales to determine

Price Trends and “Value”

In the above chart you will notice a few things:

Current Market Trends: The pandemic changed much, though the trends weren’t necessarily specific to Airstream. Rather, Airstream was caught up in the increased demand spurred by the desire for safer travel options and freedom from restricted movement. It certainly helps that new Airstream prices remain relatively stable from the beginning of the pandemic through 2024. That’s not to say prices have seen zero movement. An increase in demand, coupled with supply chain issues, facilitated and continues to facilitate price increases on specific models. Used Airstreams, including vintage Airstreams, have seen a significant rise in prices, reflecting popularity, growing demand for vintage and retro styles, historical significance in the minds of consumers, and general nostalgia. Though it’s safe to say that “found as” Airstreams command the lowest price tier and usually require significant renovations, the quality and durability of Airstream aluminum bodies and frameworks are storied. In addition to these factors, many Airstreams are repurposed as mobile kitchens, food stores, mobile boutiques, and tiny homes, adding an additional dynamic to rising prices. Word of mouth, social media, and a strong community of Airstream enthusiasts push prices upward, converting growing interest into sales. Overall, the basic economic rule of supply and demand is at work. As used Airstream models, especially those made before 1970, become rarer, their value increases. Increased demand for a scarce product drives prices up.
Prior Market Trends: By June 2010, prices were in turmoil throughout a period of 32 months. It may have been that most used trailers were bought using cash or equity loans on people’s homes, both of which had been in short supply since the housing meltdown. As we got closer to the 2008 winter and again in 2009, the number of trailers being offered for sale did not increase as it had in the past. With prices down in general, it may have been that folks realized that the days of ever-increasing prices (making a quick buck) were over for a while or were going to hold on to them and wait it out. We watched the market during the 2010 selling season and looked for trends or price range changes. Prices had dropped remarkably over the last three years on larger trailers, especially those in less than ready-to-use condition. This may have been attributed to higher gas prices but may be even more related to the rise in interest rates and the reduction in home equity loans and refinancing – the prime source of funds to buy and fix up a used trailer like an Airstream. It may also have been that the eBay crowd found out just how much work and cost were required to get an older trailer usable again. Many sellers were also getting sneaky by overclassifying the condition of their trailers, so buyers should beware.
Prices for Airstreams rocketed dramatically in the mid to late 1990s, possibly owing to the rise of the internet and the ability to share information and find for-sale units outside of your local area. Prices then cooled off from 2000–2004 as the economy cooled, except for small trailers, which have continued to rise slowly, especially those in very good condition. In 2005, prices rose again until the 2008–2010 gas/interest rate/equity loan issues. eBay prices have actually stabilized over the last few years–maybe owing to the wising up of buyers on the amount of work and money it takes to fix up one of these diamonds in the rough. What is of note is the number of retreads you see on eBay, trailers that sold on eBay just a few years prior but are now back on the auction block in a little worse condition, with some interior parts disassembled or with a half-hearted attempt at polishing a section of the trailer accomplished.
“As Found” prices rise as the trailer age gets newer. This does not necessarily mean they are worth more; it is because they are less likely to be found in as poor a condition as the earlier year models.
The restored values of 1970s models are not as high as those of 1950s and 1960s models. This is because there are very few Restored examples. (Update: Over the past decade, more 1970s Airstreams have been restored as they have aged and required more maintenance. This has led to an increase in the number of restored examples available. As a result of these increases, the values of 1970s Airstream models have seen a significant jump. While they still may not reach the levels of their restored 1950s and 1960s counterparts, the gap has narrowed.) They have not deteriorated enough to need restoring—most are still in an arrested state of decline at best. This may change with time.
Restored prices are substantially higher than Average condition prices. **Restored or renovated trailers are rare and represent just a small percentage of the population. Making a 25–55-year-old trailer like new takes much time and money. Most everyday usable Airstreams will fall somewhere in the high Average value range.
Values top out in the $25K area. It is really hard to justify anything higher. If someone spent $2,000 on a poor condition trailer and puts $25,000 into it. Sorry, it comes back to our axiom of better condition trailers are the better value for the buyer.
Truly restored Airstreams rarely come up for sale—as noted earlier, most trailers advertised are usually “As found” or “Undergoing renovation.”
Each system must be in perfect working order when entering the $35,000–$100,000 range. The structure must have been gone through and repaired, all missing parts repaired or replaced, all surfaces cleaned and ready to go, the trailer polished, and all soft goods replaced—in other words, “like new condition—ready to use, but using the old fixtures and materials.”
Another maximum limit is what new “equivalents” sell for. In the case of the shorter trailers, the 1998+ Bambis can be had for $30,000 used in like-new condition, and new Bambis and 22-footers are about $55K–$70K. That sets an upper limit unlikely to be crossed1. Another influence is new SOBs (Some Other Brand). Conventional 17–25-foot travel trailers can be had for $18,000–$35,000 new, another price factor.
Rarely can a seller get their cost out of a completely restored or customized trailer. This comes back to the fact that the best value for buyers is for the trailers to be in the best condition. With the right market, with a small (Globetrotter & smaller) trailer completely restored and polished, the limit is about $40,000–$45,000 (Bambis included). Everything else is downhill from there. Large older trailers (Ambassadors, Overlanders, etc.) seem to attract the “Park it” or “Live in it” set. Historically, there has not been as much fevered restoration or nostalgia interest. That has changed lately, as many people are remodeling these larger Airstreams for cabins and guest houses, mini homes, mobile kitchens, and food stores.
Prices are higher in the Western US. Be it because of the weather, camping and travel opportunities, too much extra money, or whatever—it’s just a fact of life.
Smaller trailers will usually bring more than larger trailers of the same vintage. This is because present-day weekend campers and travelers seek out smaller trailers, and restoring a small trailer is less formidable. Small trailers are equated with being easy to tow and easy to maintain. There is also a certain “cute factor” involved. Even Airstream has caught onto this fact with the introduction and success of the modern Bambi.
As recently as Oct 2002, a 1955 Flying Cloud stored in a barn since 1960 fetched $23,000 at auction, in untested but complete original condition. (Update: In 2024, recent sales on similar models have sold at auction for more than $27,000.)
The recent focus on Airstream by mainstream shows such as the DIY Network’s 10-part restoration of a 1970 Overlander has boosted the desirability of the longer and 1970s-era trailers. Also, many people are becoming more savvy about the condition of the floors and the amount of work it takes to restore the older trailers.
Remember to factor in the cost of obtaining an Airstream when buying. Thanks to the internet and eBay, many buyers have bought a trailer only to find that shipping it across the US costs $3,000– $4,000. Even in-state deliveries can run $500+.

What does this all mean? All fingers point to condition and desirability. The highest prices are for those in ready-to-roll restored condition, bought by people who don’t have the time or skills to do a restoration themselves. that means higher prices for good original condition trailers for people interested in restoring; average prices for neglected, mostly original examples; and bargain-basement prices for messed-up and butchered trailers. The smaller the trailer, the higher the interest and price per foot.

Table C: Common Repairs Needed

Polish external skin, per foot of total trailer length: Up to $200 per foot or $490 in DIY materials	Replace refrigerator: $1,000–$3,000+
Strip clear coat, per foot of total trailer length: $50–$60	Repair refrigerator: $200–$1,300
Wheels, steel/aluminum: Steel, $100–$170/Aluminum, $200–$300	Repair/replace water heater: Replace: $500– $3,000+; Repair: $50–$200 per hour, plus parts
Tires: $300–$400 each	Repair/replace air conditioner: Replace, $500–$1,500; Repair: $100–$700 depending on warranty and other factors
Brakes, repair/plates: $200–$300 per axle	Replace toilet: porcelain: Kits range from $180–$3,000+
Shocks: $100–$500 each	Window opener/seals, per window: Opener: $20–$130 (each); Seals: $1–$20 (each)
New axle: $1,000–$2,000+	Skylight, 14-by-25-inch mounting frame: $125–$150; Skylight: $100–$150
Propane tank OPD valves: $50–$75	Zolatone paint, interior: Up to $175 per gallon
Dent removal, end cap (per dent): Small: $50–$100; Medium: $125–$225; Large: Up to $3,500 for panel replacement	Sofa cushions: $15–$25 (each)
Flooring, carpet, vinyl, linoleum, per square foot: Carpet: $1–$8; Vinyl: $2–$13; Linoleum: $3–$10	Mattress, basic foam: $100–$300; Memory foam: $200–$600; Hybrid: $300–$800; Premium: $500–$1,500+
Propane tanks, aluminum: $35–$110	Repair/gelcoat fiberglass bathroom: DIY fiberglass repair: $50–$200; Pro fiberglass repair: $300–$800; Gelcoat, per gallon: $30–$60; Pro Application: $250–$500
Repair/replace stove/range: Repair: $85–$150; Replace: $170–$1,400	Replace water pump: $150–$300
Replace faucet: $100–$200	Replace curtains: $50–$200
Replace upholstery: $500–$2,000	Replace screens: $20–$50 (per screen)
Electric A-frame jack: $200–$500	1966–1968 Corning windows (material only): $179–$264
Propane regulator: $20–$50	Replace belly skin, material only (per linear foot): $10–$15
Rock guard: $200–$500	Additional bits and pieces: Add up in a hurry
Manual A-frame jack: $50–$150	Holding tanks with fittings: $125–$500
Overhaul windows (parts only): $100–$300	RV shop labor for repairs (per hour): $125–$175
*Includes labor. These costs will vary widely by locality and the quality of the material/product used and are for rough order of magnitude estimating.

Airstream Originality

We equate this to a little bit of history.

In the late 1920s and early 1930s, big ornate radio consoles were made by the tens of thousands. Post-WWII brought about a shrinking of radio size and improved reception and operation. By the thousands, the console radios were made into linen cabinets and spice racks, and their legs were cut off or their workings modified or replaced. Nobody thought otherwise; there were “plenty,” and these appliances were “outdated.” Today, a Spartan Equasonne can fetch between $1,200–$1,800, depending on their condition and completeness. A Stromberg-Carlson can fetch between $1,000–$1,500. Modified or incomplete sets can still be found for $100, which is less common than 10 years ago.

The same can apply to Airstreams.

There are plenty, but as each year passes, more and more bite the dust through neglect, export, loss, and/or “modifications.” Let’s face it: The old-time quality and period-look to attract people to vintage Airstreams rather than a new trailer or another brand/type is dwindling. I have been following Airstream sales closely for more than 11 years now, and notice that a vintage unit in original and undamaged condition will generate quick activity and a sale. We were recently looking for a 1950s 22-footer. We came across a trail of five over the course of a few months. Three were in fairly original condition with few mods—and each had been snapped up almost immediately. The other two were still for sale months later.

But you say your 1960s or 1970s trailer is not in that category? No one will care if it is original. “There are hundreds of these trailers?” and so on. That’s what the owners of those old radios, or the 1950s trailers, we looked at thought, too. For whatever reason that we who lived through the eras can’t explain, the 1960 and 1970 Airstream interiors will soon be found fascinating, too. That doesn’t mean that the internals can’t be improved or additions/modifications can’t be made using period materials and methods. Shoot, each Airstream is custom in its own way. For those who just have to have a modern or super-custom interior, there are many stripped-out or heavily modified trailers out there, just ready for such a make-over … and they are much cheaper than the others, too.

We think that should be a hint right there ….

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