airsteam

Airstream is the well-known American brand of travel trailers and touring coaches, commonly misspelled as “airsteam.” The term airsteam is often used to refer to the brand, which is recognized for its distinctive aluminum exterior and aerodynamic, rounded–line design.

The company was founded in 1931 by Wally Byam to create self-contained, portable homes for road travel. After an early period of development, Airstream trailers gained fame in the postwar era for their riveted aluminum construction and the distinctive “silver bullet” appearance. The design emphasizes lightweight construction, durability, and a sense of mobility that contributed to a lasting cultural association with American road travel.

Airstream trailers and motorhomes are characterized by an exterior made of aluminum panels riveted to a skeletal frame, producing a smooth, reflective surface. Interiors typically feature compact, efficiently planned layouts with built-in cabinetry, seating, and sleeping areas designed to maximize use of limited space. Over the decades, the brand has produced a range of models, including compact and mid-sized travel trailers, long-range luxury models, and touring coaches, with popular lines such as compact Bambi variants, and larger Flying Cloud and International-series trailers.

Manufacturing and corporate status have centered in the United States, with production historically located in Ohio. Since the 1980s, Airstream has been part of Thor Industries, a major RV group. Today, Airstream continues to market new trailers and coaches while maintaining a strong enthusiast community and a presence in travel and lifestyle media. The brand remains a recognizable symbol of leisure travel and mobility.