In 1931, Airstream began with Wally Byam’s dream: to build a travel trailer that would move like a stream of air, be light enough to be towed by a car, and create first-class accommodations anywhere. Best airstream hotel.

The first Airstream trailer started out as a tent contraption that he built on a Model T chassis, but proved it wasn’t a lot of fun in the rain. So he replaced the tent with a teardrop-shaped permanent shelter – and added a stove and ice chest, too. It was easy to tow and caught the eye of other travelers, so much so that enough people asked Wally about it for him to decide it might be “a pretty good business to get into.” History of Airstream trailers.

85 years later, when it comes to spotting one on the road, no other travel trailer comes close to the classic, instantly recognizable “silver bullet” look, and after decades of touring the roads and campsites of America (and the world), the Airstream has gone from being an oddity to a true American icon.

For those who have ever wanted to spend a couple of nights in an iconic Airstream travel trailer, a new glamping experience awaits you on Australia’s NSW South Coast. Having come a long way since Wally’s first design, modern Airstream trailers now resemble a luxury home.

Overnight in an Airstream: Glamping on the NSW South Coast

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The Bambino at the Bower

The Bambino at the Bower

Tucked away in the forest behind Broulee which is just South of Batemans Bay on the South Coast of New South Wales lies a new addition to The Bower at Broulee. A truly funky ‘silver bullet’ travel trailer they have nicknamed “The Bambino”, this is the ultimate glamping experience for anyone who has ever wanted to experience a couple of nights in an Airstream.

It was in late 2015 that we had the glamping experience of our lives in the sleek and romantic luxury cabins at the Bower, so when we heard about this new glamping experience on offer our bags were packed in record time at the prospect of heading back to Broulee. Can I glamp in an Airstream?

We were right to be excited. When it comes to glamping, staying in the Bambino at the Bower is a real treat. With amazing attention to detail and an innovative and unique design, we were truly blown away with how many creature comforts fitted into a mid sized van. Australian glamping.

The Bambino at the Bower

What You Get

We quickly learned that every inch of an Airstream has a function. There is an internal toilet and shower, extra long double bed and the quality fit-out that Airstream is renowned for. There is air conditioning, TV, DVD, plus 2 X bedside USB ports, bar fridge, radio, and full kitchen. And we were ridiculous impressed with the creativity which went into maximizing storage space.

A smart floor plan maximised space and minimised waste. It was spacious and airy with its own lights, water, shower and fuel for cooking. We had access to more creature comforts than you would expect from some trailers twice its size. Can I stay overnight in an Airstream trailer in Australia?

But if inside is impressive, outside is equally so. The Bambino has been built into the Bower landscape, in a truly private location with an expansive view of the surrounding clearing to the large newly completed pond.

When you step out of your Airstream you step onto a grassed terrace area. This area includes outdoor lounging, a Weber gas BBQ, reclining chairs and table, and an extra luxurious outdoor shower for 2, where we chose to shower under the stars. There is a fire-pit with ample wood, outdoor lights, and an A-Frame filled with bird-feed to attract exotic Rainbow lorikeets.

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An extra luxurious outdoor shower for 2, where we chose to shower under the stars.

Extra long double bed and the quality fit-out that Airstream is renowned for.

A smart floor plan maximised space and minimised waste.

There is air conditioning, TV, DVD, plus 2 X bedside USB ports, bar fridge, radio, and full kitchen.

Breakfast provided by the Bower.

There is air conditioning, TV, DVD, plus 2 X bedside USB ports, bar fridge, radio, and full kitchen.

We quickly learned that every inch of an Airstream has a function. There is an internal toilet and shower, extra long double bed and the quality fit-out that Airstream is renowned for.

When you step out of your Airstream you step onto a grassed terrace area.

When you step out of your Airstream you step onto a grassed terrace area.

The Lorikeets have first pickings here. They have their run of the rainforest and make sure every other bird knows it too.

There’s nothing more picturesque than the views of the Australian bush. And there’s no better way to experience them than in an Airstream. Staying in the Bambino feels like you are in your own private paradise, yet just minutes away is the beach and all that the Eurobodalla Nature Coast has to offer.

Offering single night stays in a private forest location at an affordable rate, book online now or email Mark and Sue at recharge@thebower.com.au. We rate this glamping experience as exceptional with an enthusiastic 5 stars.

Practical Information

The Bower at Broulee is located 4 hours drive South of Sydney, 2 hours drive East of Canberra and 8-9 hours North of Melbourne on the South East Coast of Australia. You can access the Eurobodalla area via the King Highway [from Canberra] the Princes Highway or the Hume Freeway/Kings Highway from Sydney or Melbourne. Are there Airstream hotels in Australia?

If you’re considering breaking up your coastal drive between Sydney and Melbourne be sure to plan for a stop here. With 100 acres of beautiful Australian bushland, and private luxury cabins onsite, the Bower is a stunning location for a destination wedding. Best airstream hotels in the world.

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The Bambino at the Bower

The Bambino at the Bower

Megan is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging since 2007, with the main aim of inspiring others to embark on their own worldwide adventure. Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

Follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.