Both Avion and Airstream are legendary names in the recreational vehicle industry known for their premium build quality and luxurious materials. They both produce Recreational Vehicles that can range from 30 to 45 feet in length and that can cost anywhere from $100,000 to $300,000 depending on the model.
Both Avion and Airstream RVs are designed with a blend of classic styling and modern convenience which have made them some of the most desirable units on the market today. However, they do have some differences which potential buyers should be aware of before committing to a purchase.
Bottom Line Up Front
If you are on a tight budget, have kids who are too tall for the upper bunk bed, or care more about interior space than exterior styling then go with an Avion. Airstreams usually have only one bathroom whereas most Avions have two bathrooms.
However, if you’re looking for something with exceptional attention to detail and a long-lasting frame, choose an Airstream, because it will likely last for 50 years or more.
Main Differences Between Avion vs Airstream
The Main Differences Between Avion And Airstream Are:
- Airstream charges consistently more for their trailers across all sizes, whereas Avion charges more for larger trailers.
- Airstream uses aluminum alloy on the exterior of their units, which is lightweight and corrosion-resistant but also very soft and susceptible to dents; whereas Avion uses powder-coated steel throughout their units, which is much stronger than aluminum alloy but also heavier and may require painting over time.
- Airstream interiors are more modern and stylish, whereas Avion interiors are a bit more old-fashioned.
- Airstream exteriors have much sharper lines and shapes, whereas Avion exteriors have a more rounded and aerodynamic appearance.
- Airstream RVs are built on a cut-steel frame, whereas Avion RVs are built on a welded steel chassis.
- Airstream units feature high-end luxury amenities such as hydraulic leveling systems and tanks that heat the water; whereas Avion units often come with basic accessories that are then upgraded upon special order.
Avion Overview
Avion is a traditional company that has been making RVs for over 60 years. Avion prides itself on the overall quality of its units, which are made with durable steel and feature luxurious interiors with elegant wood veneers for an overall classic appearance.
Avion models
Avion models range from 24 to 39 feet in length and start at $100,000. Some of their most popular models include the Grand Tour, the Signature Series, and the Diva.
Grand Tour
The Grand Tour is a 29-foot fifth wheel that features an outdoor kitchen with a fridge, sink, and grill; two opposing swivel chairs on the exterior of the unit; hardwood cabinet doors with stainless steel hardware throughout the interior of the unit; and extensive counter space with plenty of storage space.
The Grand Tour has three slide-outs that provide 320 square feet of interior floor space and comes with a gas furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, two LCD TVs, electric fireplace, washer/dryer unit, exterior shower station, outside stereo speakers, and full body paint on the exterior.
Signature Series
The Signature Series is a 35-foot fifth wheel with multiple floorplans to choose from.
It has an outdoor kitchen with a fridge, bar sink, and grill; one or two opposing swivel chairs on the exterior of the unit; hardwood cabinet doors with stainless steel hardware throughout the interior of the unit; and large picture windows with an expansive view of the surrounding area.
It has two to three slide-outs and comes equipped with a central vacuum system, outdoor shower station, exterior speakers for an MP3 player, gas furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, TV/DVD combo in the bedroom and living room; deluxe fixtures throughout; and full body paint on the exterior.
Diva
The Diva is a 39-foot fifth wheel with multiple floorplans to choose from. Some of its most popular features include an outdoor kitchen with a fridge, sink, and grill; side sofa sleeper in the living room; hardwood cabinet doors throughout the interior of the unit; elegant wood veneer paneling on the exterior of the unit; and large picture windows with an expansive view of the surrounding area.
It has two or three slide-outs and comes equipped with a washer/dryer combo, central vacuum system, outdoor shower station, exterior speakers for an MP3 player, gas furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, TV/DVD combo in the bedroom and living room; deluxe fixtures throughout; and full body paint on the exterior.
Avion design
There are several distinctive design features that can help you identify an Avion travel trailer. First, Avion travel trailers are made with aluminum exterior siding. Second, the nose of the unit features a streamlined shape similar to an airplane or rocket ship.
The inside of their RVs are no less luxurious than the outside, featuring elegant wood veneer paneling on all cabinets and storage areas, built-in microwaves in some models, and full paint on the exterior.
Avion structure
Avion travel trailers are made with the same high-quality materials that you would expect from an Airstream or Winnebago, but are available at a more affordable price point.
Avion uses high-grade steel and features very little plastic on their units; whereas other luxury brands such as Winnebago often use aluminum exteriors and lots of plastic to cut costs.
Avion units are made with the same durable components as other high-end brands; however, Avion travel trailers do not have a custom luxury exterior shell like Airstreams and Winnebagos. For this reason, they can’t be customized like Airstream or Winnebago brand trailer units.
Avion amenities
Avion RVs are available with a variety of additional amenities, including an outdoor kitchen that features a gas grill, refrigerator, and sink; swivel counter stools; hardwood cabinets throughout the interior of the unit; deluxe fixtures throughout; three TVs (living room, bedroom, and exterior) with DVD/CD player combos; spacious master bedroom with a king or queen-size bed; a central vacuum system; a washer/dryer combo; exterior speakers for an MP3 player; outdoor shower station; and full body paint on the exterior.
Avion pros:
- The Grand Tour and Signature Series come with a full body paint job on the exterior of the unit, giving the appearance of a more polished and luxurious RV.
- Some models include an outdoor kitchen with an island countertop, sink, and grill; hardwood cabinet doors throughout the interior of the unit; and deluxe fixtures throughout.
- Some models offer a washer/dryer combo and central vacuum system; exterior speakers for an MP3 player; and full body paint on the exterior.
Avion cons:
- The Grand Tour, Signature Series, and Diva are among Avion’s more expensive models.
- Although the amenities offered by Avion RVs are guaranteed to provide comfort and luxury, some people may wish to customize the interior of their unit.
Airstream Overview
Founded in 1929, Airstream is known as an American icon that has been around since the heyday of car camping. Airstream trailers are recognized by their sleek aerodynamic shape and aluminum exterior.
Due to their top-of-the-line build quality and reliability, Airstream RVs are popular with long-term travelers who spend extended periods of time on the road.
Airstream models
Airstream offers plenty of different models, ranging in length from 18 feet to 28 feet. Airstreams are available in multiple floorplans, with many featuring contemporary designs that give them a van-like appearance.
Airstream Hyperlite
The Airstream Hyperlight is a 19-foot travel trailer with multiple floorplans to choose from.
It has an exterior kitchenette with a fridge, sink, and grill; dinette booth with removable table; bar area in the living room; full body paint on the exterior of the unit; hardwood cabinet doors throughout the interior of the unit; and a variety of appliances including a small stove, microwave oven, TV/DVD combo in the bedroom, French door refrigerator with ice maker, washer/dryer combo, water heater, air conditioner, heat pump, central vacuum system.
Airstream Estate Brown Classic
The Airstream Estate Brown Classic has a master bedroom with queen-size bed, swivel counter stools, central vacuum system, full-body paint on the exterior of the unit, hardwood cabinet doors throughout the interior of the unit, and full appliance package including TV/DVD combo in living room.
Airstream design
The iconic design of Airstream RVs is instantly recognizable. Airstream trailers are known for their sleek aluminum exteriors, streamlined shape, and multiple windows on the sides of the unit.
Airstream structure
Airstream trailers are handmade in Jackson Center, Ohio. It features a central vacuum system and full-body paint on the exterior of the unit.
Unlike other RVs, Airstreams have a polished aluminum exterior that is both sleek and durable. This luxurious look can’t be matched by many other brands, making them popular with those who desire an aesthetically pleasing mobile home.
They feature a 5-inch frame that doesn’t flex or bend, a feature that helps them maintain structural stability and prevents sagging over time.
Their interiors are made of high-quality Birchwood veneers and real hardwood doors. They also have FSC certified wood flooring throughout the unit.
Snow loads up to 70 pounds per square foot can be supported by the Airstream’s 5-inch frame.
Airstream rooftop units come in many shapes and sizes, including penthouse models that feature retractable roofs to capture more headroom inside the RV.
Airstream amenities
Many Airstream models are available with different amenities, including exterior kitchenettes or full kitchens; exterior speakers for an MP3 player; hot water heater; central vacuum system; washer/dryer combo; hardwood cabinet doors throughout the interior of the unit; and full body paint on the exterior of the unit.
Airstream pros:
- Airstream units come with built-in aluminum exterior storage compartments and bathtubs/showers; kitchens with stainless steel sinks and faucets.
- The sturdy build quality of Airstreams makes them perfect for long-term travelers who spend extended periods of time on the road.
Airstream cons:
- Airstreams are more expensive than other RVs; some Airstreams do not come with exterior speakers or appliances such as a microwave oven or TV/DVD combo.
- Although the iconic design of Airstream trailers is instantly recognizable, it may take some time to get used to driving them in tight spaces.
Interesting Read: How to Find the Best Airstream Alternatives.
FAQ
If you’re considering either an Avion or an Airstream travel trailer, these frequently asked questions can help you.
Question: Are Airstream RVs difficult to drive compared to other travel trailers?
Answer: With their streamlined shape and aluminum exterior, Airstreams can be difficult to drive in tight spaces such as parking lots.
Question: Is the build quality of Avion RVs comparable to that of Airstreams?
Answer: Both companies use high-quality materials to build their RVs. However, Airstreams are a bit more well-known than Avion, and have been known to last decades because of their build quality.
Question: Can Airstreams be customized with appliances not offered by the company?
Answer: Airstreams are fully customizable, allowing you to choose from a range of different options when it comes to appliances or decorating your unit.
Question: How long do the warranties last on Airstreams and Avions?
Answer: Airstreams come with 3-year limited warranties on structural components and electrical systems, while Avions come with a 5-year limited warranty.
Final Thoughts
Both Avion and Airstream offer plenty of amenities, high build quality, and many floorplans to suit your travel needs.
Although Avion tends to be less expensive than the average Airstream, both companies offer high-quality RVs that will last for many years.