Austrack Simpson X - a wonderful off road travelling mate

“X-Series packaging is so inclusive that you’d be mad not to spend the extra."

"When you reach that dream campsite it opens to a very large livable footprint"

"The Simpson is a perfect size to tow absolutely anywhere; bush, beach, desert – it does it all!"

The Austrack Simpson X with its batwing wrap and fully certified multiple gas outlets

Historic Simpson

The name 'Simpson' has a proud Australian heritage making it a fitting name for the wonderful little Austrack Simpson camper trailer. When you think of our iconic outback, there's perhaps no greater embodiment of it than the majestic Simpson Desert. Although many assume it was named after John Simpson Kirkpatrick and his famous donkey, the desert is actually named after Alfred Allen Simpson, the President of the South Australian branch of the Royal Geographical Society of Australasia and a great Australian philanthropist, industrialist, and geographer, and is one of the toughest tests for any off-road vehicle. Can Austrack's camper trailer live up to its namesake?

The Overview

Lightweight and with a strong chassis and ground clearance allows off road security

Whilst the Austrack Simpson has big shoes to fill, this little nugget is upright and worthy. When it comes to “durability, reliability and efficiency” the Austrack Simpson has all the attributes of a trustworthy digger mate! Its go-anywhere attitude allows it to traverse all of our country's toughest tracks, while the facilities and features add reliable comfort as you travel.

Austrack's Simpson is available in a basic configuration, but few buyers opt for it due to the incredible value offered by the optional X-Series package. This upgraded package delivers over $9,000 worth of premium extras, adding comfort and convenience to every adventure. An 80L fridge freezer keeps your supplies fresh, while a portable gas hot water system ensures instant access to hot showers. LED lighting enhances visibility, and awning walls provide extra shelter. The ensuite setup includes a shower and portaloo for added privacy.

Designed for off-road capability, the package also features a McHitch off-road coupling, sand peg kit, and extra gas outlets. A stereo system, solar panel, and 240V charger complete the setup, making off-grid travel easier than ever! For an additional $3,000, the X-Series is an unbeatable deal.

The Simpson's appeal extends beyond its price point, however. Its compact design makes it perfect for serious travellers seeking a go-anywhere unit with ample storage and essential facilities like power, water, and cooking equipment. Its lightweight construction also makes it suitable for smaller RVs and commuter vehicles. Measuring modestly on-road, the Simpson excels in tight bushland spaces and urban storage areas. However, upon arrival at your dream campsite, it expands to reveal a spacious, liveable footprint with ample shade.

Roof Top Tents: Love 'em or hate 'em?
Elevation is terrific but climbing that ladder in the middle of the night? Not for these old knees!

The 'Superior' rooftop tent offers a premium camping experience. At 1.8 meters wide, it folds out easily for quick overnight stays, keeping you elevated above the bush floor and away from many creepy crawlies. The tent features a solid frame, 280GSM canvas, and a 75mm queen-size foam mattress. Ventilation is ample, with opening windows, 2-stage awnings, and midge mesh protection. While access requires a ladder, the tent assembles easily and is secured in a water and dust-proof PVC bag. The package appeals to experienced campers seeking a lightweight, easy-to-assemble option. If you don't want the tent you may select roof racks or basket options.

There are checker plate steps either side extending from the wheel arch to the rear of the trailer to aid access and assembly, as well as recovery hitches and an accessory mount for added tow hitch or bicycle/toy carrier.

Chassis & Build
for such a small camper there's plenty of space and storage

Of the Simpson, Austrack’s owner Linden Lawson says, “The Simpson is a perfect size to tow absolutely anywhere; bush, beach, desert – it does it all!  It’s light and nimble, has excellent ground clearance and is always ready to go. In fact, it’s probably over engineered if anything, but there’s nothing wrong with that!”

The Austrack Simpson boasts a robust foundation with its fully welded, hot-dipped galvanised chassis and drawbar. Key features include:

  • Heavy-duty independent coil spring suspension with double shock absorbers

  • 265/75 x 16” alloy mag wheels with 6 stud hubs and heavy-duty electric brakes

  • McHitch off-road coupling and mechanical handbrake, ARK XO Series extra heavy-duty jockey wheel and Anderson plug

  • Convenient storage for gas bottles, jerry cans, spare wheel, and tools with its large, lockable tool box, and alloy stone guard with spare wheel mount.

The trailer's zinc anneal steel body features a durable baked enamel metallic finish, polished stainless steel trim, and premium hardware throughout. I was very pleased to see a galvanised chassis and drawbar with underbody deadener, and finished with an attractive colour scheme and decals.

Don't be worried about dust or moisture either, as all the compartments feature neatly folded hatches with compression locks, premium hinges and automotive quality rubber seals.

Inside the Tub

There's a tonne of compartments to store your goodies, and easy kitchen access for a roadside cuppa.

The Austrack Simpson camper trailer boasts ample storage options, including lockable compartments and a large cage supporting the tent. The kerb side features a slide-out 80L fridge freezer, while overhead, a retractable 270-degree awning provides plenty of shade.

A stainless-steel slide-out kitchen includes a twin-burner Smev stove, pressurised cold sink, and utensil drawer. Additional features include:

  • Full-width storage compartment for long items

  • Plug-in fittings for 12V power, water, and gas

  • Electrical switches for LED lighting

  • Gas-compliant fittings and assembly

The X-Series packaging adds a full set of walls for extended stays, making the Simpson an ideal choice for campers seeking comfort and convenience.

The full width storage compartment appealed to the angler in me by creating a safe haven for both my fishing rods and tent poles, and I just cannot travel without a Bluetooth stereo.

Electronics & Additional Features

It was a pleasure to review this little ripper camper!

On the driver's side, you'll find:

  • Electrical control panel with twin 120Ah batteries, management system, and USB outlets

  • Water level gauge

  • Large cabinet with sliding drawer over the wheel arch

  • Full-width cabinet mirroring the kitchen

Additional features include:

  • 100L water tank mounted under the chassis, protected by alloy shrouds

  • Low centre of balance for stable footing in harsh terrain

  • Terrific ground clearance and recovery angles

  • A very reasonable tare weight of 900kg (including tent)

  • ATM of 1480kg, allowing for ample cargo, essentials and toys capacity

The Wrap

Simpson and his donkey endured great hardships in his battles with foe and terrain, but he never gave up on his worthy mission. We hope your adventures in the Austrack Simpson are never as death defying, but one thing is for sure, this little digger has the guts for glory.

Our diggers fought for our freedom, so it's now up to you to take on the challenge with the Austrack Simpson paving a comfortable road. One thing is for sure, you will be ready for action with your Austrack Simpson!

Even the decals look terrific on the Austrack Simpson X

Measuring Up

Hits (Pros)

  • Compact camper with easy set-up

  • Tough off-road credentials

  • Comfortable layout with a host of essentials

  • Innovative design and select features

  • PRICE!

Misses (Cons/compromises)

Are you happy to climb the ladder to the roof top tent?

Specifications

Trailer

Tare: 900kg including roof top tent and awning

ATM: 1480kg

Suspension: Independent trailing arm with coil springs and dual shock absorbers each side with heavy duty parallel bearings

Brakes: 12” electric

Coupling: McHitch Off Road Coupling

Chassis: Full box section galvanised 100 x 50 x 4 mm

Drawbar: 100 x 50 x 4 mm galvanised A frame

Body: 1.2mm Zincanneal panels and paint oven baked enamel with polished checker plate alloy trims

Wheel/tyre: 265/75 x 16” Mud-terrain

Style: Alloy mag

Dimensions

Box width: 1900 mm overall

Body Height: 1800 mm (ground to top plus 400mm of roof top tent?)

Length (hitch to tail lights): 4100 mm overall

Tent size: 4200 x 1900 mm x mm PLUS 6000 x 2400 mm annexe

Accessories

Gas cylinders: 1 x 9 kg brackets only       

Water: 1 x 100 litre stainless steel tank with alloy shrouds and 12 volt pump

Cooktop: Smev 2 burner

Kitchen: Stainless Steel Kitchenette, sink, pressurised cold water, 1 x drawer, and LED light

Battery: 2 x 120 AMP Gel

Supplied for this review by Austrack Campers.

Are You Shopping for the Perfect Camper or RV? Start Your Search at OnlyVans.com.au

At OnlyVans.com.au, we have a huge range of campers, RV's and caravans for sale, including used caravans and of course caravans from private sellers. We have motorhomes for sale, functional camper trailers, and innovative pop top caravans. Explore our range of Austrack Campers today and start your journey with OnlyVans.com.au.

If you're in need of camper finance, look no further than Credit One, Australia's best reviewed finance broker. With an extensive range of caravan finance options to suit every taste, budget and lifestyle, they'll set you up for your dream adventure!


Found your perfect purchase? Let’s make financing just as easy!

Work with Australia’s best-reviewed finance broker for a great deal and a stress-free experience. With 2,500+ glowing Google reviews, you can trust you're in good hands! See what our happy customers say in Credit One reviews, or jump right in and crunch the numbers with our handy loan repayment calculator. Your ideal financing solution is just a few clicks away!