My plan was to start shopping for my home on wheels in Spring, 2011. But when your hairdresser notices you reading a book about campers and tells you there’s one for sale in the back of his shop, you kind of have to check it out. Sadly, I didn’t have my camera but I did get some okay shots with my phone (see below).
The model is a little later than I wanted (it’s a ’77 Layton), and it’s a little larger than I imagined toting across the country (18′). But it has potential. Even though I’m not ready to make a purchase now, I’m glad I checked it out. I realize I shouldn’t discount the younger 70s’ campers. And who knows? This trailer might still be on the market next spring, so I’ll keep it on the ReCamp list for now. I started this list of pros and cons about the lovely Layton:
| Pros | Cons |
| Relatively cheap at $2500. | I don’t have $2500. Plus, I think it’s slightly overpriced compared to some other Laytons I’ve investigated. |
| Has tons of windows and storage space (cabinets and a decent-sized closet). Screen door is also in good shape. | Paneling and cabinets are pretty terrible. |
| Exterior is in great condition. Paint looks good. I love the two-toned yellow stripes. | The boxy style isn’t my favorite (though it is more practical). Still, I prefer the 50s-60s rounded models. |
| Looks like there would be easy cosmetic fixes. | Pineapple wall paper—yikes! (And stickers everywhere.) |
| The original cushions look good, even though I’d update them. | Bunk mattress over banquette needs replacing. |
| Comes with electric brakes and brake controller. | What the hell are electric brakes??? |
| Has working A/C and water heater. | |
| Sleeps at least three comfortably (five could squeeze in). | |
| Fridge works off propane or electricity. | |
| It’s located in Raleigh. | |
| Bathroom has a shower. | |
| Other than being dated and showing usual signs of age, it doesn’t look like it has seen much use. | |
| Would look great decked out in some tiki or lounge décor. | |
| I’m thinking I could talk the seller into throwing in the dashboard Elvis that’s hanging in the kitchen so mine would have company. |
So, there are a lot of pros. I’d love to hear what others think about this camper, so take a look.
The exterior. Could become a great blank canvas for me.
A glimpse at the mini kitchen, the doorway, and the groovy couch that turns into a double bed.
A closer view of Elvis and the pineapple wallpaper; the banquette, kitchen sink and cabinets; and entry close up.
The outside looks really clean and solid. The first thing I noticed on the inside was Elvis, and I wondered if you Photoshopped him in 🙂
I love it. I think the people that had this ol’ gal, maybe were into motocross or something like that from what I get from the stickers. I think this would be rocking in the woods.
I like the Layton campers. This one was pretty sweet. I saw another (same model) renovated in butter yellow like a salty beach cottage!
I think it is beautiful, BUT if your not “into” the square boxy type, you may always wish you hadn’t, get your hearts desire that way no regrets ever.
I love these Layton skylines, ive got a 1976 tandem axle 18′ skyline & love it (lots of sentamental value, my great grandpa bought it way back in 1986 & was the 2nd ower of it, now im the 3rd owner.
For that price and in that condition, I wish I could buy it right this minute!