A Swiss company has launched a lightweight minicaravan designed to be towed by a bicycle. The Eco Slide Out expands at your destination, sleeps two, and includes a dedicated space for a portable toilet. Its compact build and practical features target cyclists seeking more comfort on the road.
Weighing just 52 kilos, the Eco Slide Out from Alpencamper is redefining what’s possible for cyclists who want more than a tent on their journeys. This Swiss-made minicaravan attaches to most bicycles and e-bikes, offering a rigid, weather-resistant shelter that expands to provide real comfort at the end of a ride.
During travel, the Eco Slide Out keeps a slim profile—2.14 meters long, 97 centimeters wide, and 1.3 meters high—making it manageable behind a bike without the hassle of setting up fabric structures. Once parked, a section of the side wall slides out by 50 centimeters, transforming the interior into a space measuring 2.08 meters by 1.4 meters, with enough room for a double bed. Four stabilizing supports keep the trailer steady when expanded.
Expandable Comfort
The structure combines aluminum and composite materials, with three-centimeter-thick insulated walls designed for summer and mild weather. According to Alpencamper, the cabin offers better protection from rain and wind than a standard tent, making it a practical choice for unpredictable conditions.
Smart Storage and Toilet Compartment
Beneath the bed, there’s a 270-liter storage compartment for luggage, food, and camping gear. The design also includes a dedicated space for a portable separating toilet, though a full bathroom is not part of the standard equipment. This feature is intended to give cyclists more autonomy when traveling far from campsites or public facilities.
Other features include a 50x35 cm insulated window with mosquito net and blind, battery-powered lighting, a bed frame, table, insulated food box, and a shelf for personal items. The entrance is designed to shield users from the elements.
Compatibility and Pricing
The Eco Slide Out uses a Weber hitch compatible with most bikes and e-bikes, and rides on 20-inch wheels. In Switzerland, the maximum authorized weight is 80 kilos, but Alpencamper advises checking local regulations in other countries. The official price is 8,350 Swiss francs, with a production time of four to six weeks and delivery to EU countries taking an additional five to ten working days.
As cycling tourism grows in popularity, solutions like the Eco Slide Out reflect a shift toward more comfortable, self-sufficient travel for those who prefer two wheels over four. While the minicaravan is not a substitute for a full camper van, it offers a unique blend of mobility and convenience for adventurous cyclists.
