THEN AND NOW: How the Airstream evolved from an aluminum trailer to a modern tiny house on wheels

Frank OlitoAug 14, 2020, 19:52 IST

The Airstream has changed throughout the years.Courtesy of Airstream

Airstream has been operating in the US since the 1930s and changed dramatically over the years.
The Clipper was Airstream's first model, which slept four people and cost $1,200.
The Safari model was first introduced in the 1960s as a trailer with a bathroom and lounge area. The model was resurrected in the '90s.
Today, the Airstream models are much smaller and use smartphone technology.

When shopping for a trailer or RV, you're guaranteed to come across an Airstream for sale.

Since the 1930s, Airstream has been a prominent name in the industry, overcoming the Great Depression, World War II, and changing consumer needs. Throughout its decades-spanning history, Airstream has created several models, adapting to the times.

Here's how the Airstream has evolved throughout the years.

Before Wally Baym founded the Airstream company, he was making trailers of plywood and hooking them to cars.

Baym with his trailer in '30s. Courtesy of Airstream

The first official Airstream was the Clipper, which was made out of aluminum.

Airstream in the 1903s. Courtesy of Airstream

In 1947, Baym introduced the Airstream Liner, which was 22-feet long.

Airstream Liner and Baym. Courtesy of Airstream

Toward the end of the '50s, the International Line was introduced, which had battery power and tanks.

The International. Courtesy of Airstream

The Bambi model was introduced in 1961 as a smaller option for Airstream consumers.

The Bambi. Courtesy of Airstream

During the '60s, the Safari model also became popular for its large bathroom and lounge area.

Inside a '60s Airstream. Courtesy of Airstream

Airstream created its first motor home in the '70s called Argosy.

Argosy Motorhome. Courtesy of Airstream

Like most things in the '80s, the Airstream models became bigger and flashier.

Airstreams in the '80s. Courtesy of Airstream

In the '90s, the company reintroduced the Safari model, which was aimed at attracting younger buyers.

The Safari trailer in the '90s. Courtesy of Airstream

At the turn of the century, Airstream partnered with Mercedes-Benz to recreate the sprinter van.

Airstream sprinter van. Courtesy of Airstream

Recently, the company launched two smaller trailers for easier travel: the Basecamp and the Nest.

The Nest. Courtesy of Airstream

Today, Airstream has officially adapted to the world of modern technology.

Airstreams now have smartphone technology. Courtesy of Airstream

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