The Fold-N-Roll Trailer from Irv Perch
It seems that the more I look at camping trailers, the more interesting things I find. For example, the Fold-N-Roll Trailer. It was created in 1996 by Irv Perch, the original founder of Aristocrat Trailers, but they are a far cry the from canned ham design of his past.
It’s not as pretty as an old Aristocrat trailer, but you can’t argue with its utilitarian design. Unlike the A-Frame trailers or even the TrailManor trailers, the Fold-N-Roll unfolds entirely differently. The top slides up and over, creating a sloped roof on the front and a handy awning over the door on the back.
It was easy to find photos of the trailer in its extend position, but I could only find one photo of it closed up. It looks like a clunky and awkward mess to me.
When compared to the streamlined design of this 1959 Aristocrat trailer, the Fold-N-Roll looks like a monstrosity.
What it lacked in beauty, it more than made up in utility. It was equipped with a queen-sized bed, a separate dinette and a full bathroom. And it all folded down into an ingenious bit of trailer origami.
Sadly, the Fold-N-Roll was not long for this world and are no longer made today, so if you want one of these babies, you’ll have to find one on the used market. With gas prices as high as they are, a small trailer that folds so compactly, yet opens up into such a roomy space is exactly what most people need.
See more photos after the break:
Info and photos via:
- RV News September 1996
- 1996 American Clipper Fold N’ Roll , Boise ID – 100330442 – RVTraderonline.com
- 1999 fold n roll by (american clipper)Aristocrat Trailers for Sale in Stockton, California Classified | ShowMeTheAd.com
- American Clipper Owners Club – Index
- Aristocrat Trailer, 1959 – a photo on Flickriver
I own one of these and Ive had it for about 8 years. Its a very fun little camper. I love how easy it is to set up and it has everything I want. There is a cabinet on the bottom for a window A/C so Im always comfortable and dry. Its perfect for me and the dog. The only thing thats annoying is the amount of people who want to see the inside. Im a rather private person and every time I go camping 4-5 people come over and want to see the inside. The best part is that it fits inside my garage so I dont have to pay storage fee’s.
Comment by Joe — September 2, 2012 @ 6:22 pm
I have one, and if anyone wants to purchase it, just let me know. It’s in Central California.
Comment by Sharon — September 25, 2012 @ 11:24 am
Sharon, How would I find you to find out more about your trailer?
Comment by barbara — September 26, 2012 @ 7:42 am
Hi, Our Fold-N-Roll was totalled 2 summers ago and e miss it. We wold love to buy another on as our current 27 footer just doesn’t have the charm of the Fold-N-Roll.
If anyone is interested in selling, contact us at doniec@hotmail.com
Thanks
Comment by Drew — October 21, 2012 @ 9:20 pm
I have a fold n roll and really like it. The problem we have at present is the refrigerator. I have had someone work on tne refrig and still not keeping food cold. Do you have any suggestions. We live in Southern California and would be interested in knowing if there is an approved RV repair outlet for our Fold n Roll RV in our area.
Thanks, Joe Batistelli
Comment by Joe Batistelli — February 17, 2014 @ 7:55 pm
I have a 1997 Fold and Roll and love it. I dont have and manuals or literature on it. If anyone has and is willing to share it i would appreciate it. I will pay for duplication costs and postage.
Comment by Wayne ONeil — June 20, 2014 @ 7:46 pm
I have a 1997 Fold N Roll here in WI. I have a problem that is making me cry. The wood in the roof is rotten and falling apart. I either need to find someone to customize refurbish a new roof, or possible find a second Fold N Roll that is no longer in service but might have a usable roof I can swap out. If anyone is aware of a unit that I could buy please send me some info.
Joe cognitojoe@yahoo.com
Comment by Joe — July 21, 2014 @ 11:33 pm
I’m looking for a Fold N Roll to buy 713 504-8585
Comment by Karen J — August 22, 2014 @ 7:23 pm
Bought one but needs restoration. Any knowlege, manuals etc is greatly appreciated! 713 504-8585
Comment by Karen J — September 26, 2014 @ 8:35 am
Restoration almost complete. For sale 713 504-8585
Comment by Karen J — September 10, 2016 @ 1:03 pm