Shopping for a compact travel trailer usually means making compromises. Many lightweight campers are easy to tow, but they often sacrifice durability, storage, or features that make camping more enjoyable.
The 2026 Hopper 1 by Modern Buggy was created with a different goal in mind.
Rather than building another basic lightweight camper, Modern Buggy partnered with Bish’s RV to evolve the original Wayfinder Cloudbreaker concept into something more refined. The result is a rugged, adventure-focused travel trailer designed for campers who want to spend more time exploring and less time worrying about where they can tow or set up their RV.
Whether you’re heading into the mountains for a fishing trip, exploring state parks for the weekend, or simply looking for a lightweight camper that’s built with better materials than many entry-level models, the Hopper 1 offers a refreshing, functional approach.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the Hopper 1 unique, who it’s designed for, and whether this compact travel trailer is the right fit for your camping style.
Table of Contents
Why the Hopper 1 Was Created
Quick Specs & Features
Who Is the Hopper 1 Best For
Living Space & Floorplan
Kitchen & Bathroom
Sleeping Arrangements
Exterior Features
Construction & Towing
Pros & Considerations
Similar Campers
FAQ
Final Thoughts
Why the Hopper 1 Was Created
One of the most interesting things about the Hopper 1 isn’t just its floorplan, it’s the story behind it.
The Hopper series traces its roots back to the original Wayfinder Cloudbreaker, a Bish’s RV exclusive that was designed after one of the company’s executives wanted a simple camper for weekend fishing trips with his son. They couldn’t find a lightweight trailer that offered the right combination of durability, functionality, and versatility, so they built one. That concept eventually evolved into the Hopper lineup through a partnership with Modern Buggy, making the design available to more RVers across the country.
Instead of trying to compete with luxury travel trailers, the Hopper 1 fills a different niche. It’s built for people who spend more time outside than inside and want a camper that complements their adventures rather than becoming the destination itself.
What Makes It Different?
- Inspired by the original Bish’s RV Wayfinder Cloudbreaker
- Designed for outdoor adventures instead of extended indoor living
- Rugged construction with upgraded materials
- Large campsite windows for better natural light
- Flexible interior with room for longer gear
- Excellent ground clearance for reaching more remote campsites
Why That Matters
Not every camper needs residential-style amenities. For many RVers, the perfect weekend means hiking, fishing, kayaking, or exploring new places! Spending time outside is more appealing than spending hours sitting inside the trailer.
The Hopper 1 reflects that philosophy by keeping the interior simple while focusing on durability, visibility, and versatility.
Bottom Line: The Hopper 1 isn’t trying to be a tiny apartment on wheels, it’s designed to be a comfortable basecamp for your next adventure.
Quick Specs & Features
While exact specifications may vary slightly, here are some of the standout features that make the Hopper 1 unique.
Interior Features
- Flexible front cargo area
- Large panoramic campsite windows
- Convertible sofa/sleeper
- Television prep
- Dedicated workspace or charging station
- GE Profile air conditioner
- Wet bath
- Microwave
- Generous kitchen counter space
- Overhead storage cabinets
Exterior Features
- Hung fiberglass construction
- Azdel composite wall panels
- Dual power awnings
- Aggressive off-road-inspired tires
- Exceptional ground clearance
- Solar package
- Tankless on-demand water heater
- Outside utility shower
- Exterior TV hookups
- Front storage compartment
Living Space & Floorplan
The Hopper 1’s interior is unlike most compact travel trailers.
Rather than filling every inch with furniture, Modern Buggy prioritized flexibility. The open front section can accommodate longer cargo like kayaks, screen rooms, or other adventure gear that wouldn’t normally fit inside a traditional camper. It’s a smart design choice for RVers whose hobbies require more than just a suitcase.
Another standout feature is the amount of natural light. Because there isn’t a campsite entry door, the Hopper 1 makes room for oversized windows that create a bright, open feel throughout the interior. One of the front windows even opens for additional airflow, a welcome improvement over earlier versions of the design.
Highlights
- Flexible cargo-friendly floorplan
- Oversized campsite windows
- Television prep
- Workspace or charging station
- GE Profile air conditioner
- Open interior design
What We Like
The Hopper 1 embraces the idea that camping should happen outdoors. Instead of focusing on entertainment inside the trailer, it provides a comfortable, functional living space that supports your adventures without adding unnecessary complexity.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a camper that’s built around your outdoor lifestyle instead of your living room, the Hopper 1 delivers a refreshingly different approach.
Kitchen & Bathroom
The Hopper 1 keeps things simple, and that’s by design.
Rather than trying to squeeze a full residential kitchen into a compact camper, Modern Buggy focused on providing the essentials while leaving plenty of room for campers who spend most of their time outdoors.
Kitchen Highlights
- Countertop for meal prep
- Microwave
- Stainless steel sink
- Convenient power outlet near the counter
- Overhead storage cabinets
- GE Profile air conditioner overhead
What We Like
One of the nicest features is the generous countertop space. Whether you’re making coffee before an early hike or prepping dinner after a day on the trail, there’s enough room to work without feeling cramped.
The nearby outlet also makes it easy to plug in small appliances like a coffee maker or portable cooktop.
Bathroom
The Hopper 1 includes a wet bath, helping maximize interior space while still providing everything you need for a weekend getaway.
Bathroom Highlights
- Wet bath design
- Azdel composite wall panels
- Large roof vent fan nearby
- Compact, easy-to-clean layout
Considerations
While the current layout works well for many campers, something worth considering if bathroom comfort is a high priority, the dry bath configuration is on the smaller side.
Bottom Line: The kitchen and bathroom focus on practicality over luxury, making them a good fit for campers who spend more time outside than inside.
Sleeping Arrangements
The Hopper 1 offers flexible sleeping accommodations that work well for solo travelers, couples, or the occasional guest, if close proximity isn’t an issue.
The main sleeping area sits at the front of the camper and is best suited for one adult or a couple comfortable sharing a compact bed. A fold-down bunk or sofa adds additional versatility, giving owners the option to accommodate another camper or use the space for extra storage.
Sleeping Highlights
- Main front sleeping area
- Fold-down bunk/sofa
- Privacy shades
- Bedside charging station
- Large storage area beneath the bed
What We Like
The storage beneath the main bed is a smart use of space. It’s ideal for keeping duffel bags, camping gear, or other bulky items off the floor without adding unnecessary cabinetry.
The fold-down bunk also gives owners flexibility. If you don’t need the extra sleeping space, it can simply become another storage area.
Considerations
Josh noted that many owners requested a configurable cabinet/bunk combination rather than a permanent fold-down bunk. It’s an interesting idea that would make the space even more adaptable for different camping styles.
Bottom Line: The Hopper 1 is best suited for solo travelers or couples, but its flexible sleeping arrangement gives owners options depending on how they camp.
Exterior Features
The Hopper 1’s rugged appearance isn’t just for show.
Many of its exterior features are designed to help campers reach destinations that might be less accessible with a traditional travel trailer.
Exterior Highlights
- Exceptional ground clearance
- Dual power awnings
- Aggressive all-terrain-style tires
- Exterior TV hookups
- Outside utility shower
- Front exterior storage
- Solar package
- Tankless on-demand water heater
What We Like
One of the Hopper 1’s biggest strengths is its impressive ground clearance. Combined with its aggressive tire package, it gives campers more confidence when navigating rough campground roads or undeveloped campsites.
The dual power awnings also provide generous shade around the campsite, helping extend your living space outdoors.
Considerations
One feature Josh wishes had been included is factory-installed stabilizer jacks. While not a deal-breaker, they would add convenience when setting up camp. He also notes that the initial Hopper 1 models don’t include an enclosed underbelly, though that feature is expected on future generations.
Bottom Line: If your adventures take you beyond paved campgrounds, the Hopper 1’s rugged exterior is one of its biggest advantages.
Construction & Towing
The biggest upgrade over the original Wayfinder Cloudbreaker isn’t something you’ll immediately notice, it’s how the Hopper 1 is built.
Modern Buggy improved the overall construction while maintaining the lightweight, adventure-focused philosophy that made the original concept so popular.
Construction Highlights
- Hung fiberglass sidewalls
- Azdel composite interior and exterior wall panels
- Welded aluminum front cap structure
- No membrane roof
- Battery-tending solar package
- Improved cargo capacity
One of the Hopper 1’s most impressive specifications is its approximately 1,700-pound cargo carrying capacity, giving owners plenty of flexibility for bikes, fishing gear, coolers, and other outdoor equipment.
Towing Considerations
While the Hopper 1 remains a lightweight camper, the upgraded construction does increase its overall weight compared to the original Cloudbreaker.
That’s not necessarily a negative.
The added weight comes with stronger construction and significantly more cargo capacity, but it also means buyers should ensure their tow vehicle is properly equipped before heading out on their next adventure.
Bottom Line: The Hopper 1 strikes a thoughtful balance between lightweight towing and long-term durability.
Pros & Considerations
What We Like
- Unique adventure-focused design
- Excellent ground clearance
- Upgraded construction materials
- Large campsite windows
- Flexible cargo space
- Strong cargo carrying capacity
- Solar package included
- Tankless water heater
- Simple, functional layout
Considerations
- Wet bath may not appeal to everyone
- Compact bed is best suited for one or two campers
- No enclosed underbelly on early models
- Limited exterior storage
- Stabilizer jacks would be a welcome addition
Similar Campers to Consider
If you’re considering the Hopper 1, you may also want to compare it with a few other compact, adventure-focused travel trailers.
| Model | Best For |
|---|---|
| Modern Buggy Hopper 2 | Campers wanting additional interior space |
| nuCamp TAB 320 | Couples looking for a premium teardrop-style camper |
| Forest River No Boundaries (NO BO) | Outdoor enthusiasts wanting more off-grid capability |
| inTech Flyer Explore | Adventure travelers who prioritize cargo flexibility |
Each offers a different combination of weight, features, and camping style, making them worth comparing before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hopper 1 good for first-time RV owners?
Yes. Its compact size and relatively lightweight design make it an approachable option for campers new to RV ownership.
Can the Hopper 1 sleep a family?
It’s best suited for solo travelers or couples, though the additional bunk provides flexibility for an occasional guest or child.
Does the Hopper 1 have a bathroom?
Yes. It includes a compact wet bath with a toilet and shower.
Is the Hopper 1 good for boondocking?
With its solar package, generous ground clearance, and adventure-focused design, it’s well-equipped for campers who enjoy spending time off the beaten path.
What makes the Hopper 1 different from other lightweight campers?
The Hopper 1 focuses on upgraded construction, flexible cargo space, and an outdoor-first philosophy rather than maximizing interior living space. It was specifically designed for campers who want a durable, versatile basecamp for their adventures.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Modern Buggy Hopper 1 isn’t trying to be everything to everyone, and that’s exactly what makes it stand out.
Instead of chasing residential luxury in a compact footprint, it focuses on the essentials that matter most to outdoor enthusiasts… durable construction, generous cargo capacity, excellent ground clearance, and a layout that supports the lover of the great outdoors!
While there are a few areas where future updates could make an already good design even better, the Hopper 1 delivers on its core mission. It’s a travel trailer built for exploring mountain roads, weekend fishing trips, state park adventures, and spontaneous getaways.
If your ideal camping trip starts with the destination, not the campground, the Hopper 1 is well worth adding to your shortlist.
Written By: Brooke Erickson
Some say I am a writer, I like to say I am a storyteller