The Story
In 2014, we made a decision that changed everything. We sold our 3,000 sq ft house and bought this 1979 Airstream Excella 500 — gutting it down to the frame and rebuilding it from scratch as an off-grid family adventure base.
For four years (2015–2019), our family of five — eventually growing to include three kids and a dog — crisscrossed the United States, Mexico, and Canada four times. Red rock deserts, Pacific redwoods, snowy mountain passes, lakeside campgrounds, and Gulf Coast beaches became our backyard.
Every detail was chosen with intention: butcher block countertops, a teak shower, 400Ah of lithium batteries, and 400 watts of solar to keep us off-grid for a week or more. This Airstream isn't just a trailer — it's a home that has been deeply, wholly lived in.
We are the Stewarts, and we've loved every mile and memory in this silver home. Now that our family has grown, we're ready to pass her on to the next generation of adventures.
We're the Stewarts
This could be your family, making memories in the same home we loved.
Built for Adventure
A rare combination: fully off-grid capable AND family-ready. Camp for a week without hookups.
400Ah Lithium
4× Battleborn 100Ah batteries for serious off-grid power
400W Solar
4× 100W roof-mounted rigid panels with Victron MPPT controller
Sleeps 5+
Rear queen, twin bunks, plus convertible front couch bed
30+ Compartments
Overhead, under-bed, under-couch, kitchen, bathroom & bumper storage
Full Kitchen & Bath
3-burner range, 3-way fridge, composting toilet, instant hot water
All-Season Ready
30K BTU furnace, 15K BTU A/C, 3× Fantastic Fans
"Four years, four cross-country trips, countless sunsets — this Airstream has seen it all."
The Full Picture
Photos from 4 years on the road — deserts, redwoods, beaches, snow-capped mountains, and every lovingly crafted detail inside.
Adventure Photos
Interior and Exterior Details
Detailed Specifications
Every component, documented. Click to expand each category.
Known Issues
Please keep in mind that this is a nearly 50-year-old vintage travel trailer. While she's incredibly sturdy and fully renovated for off-grid travel, she is not pristine. You'll find various minor aesthetic signs of being lovingly used over the decades—a few scuffs and character marks here and there. She has a rich vintage history, but remains solid, reliable, and completely ready for her next grand adventure.
Full transparency — here's a specific list of everything we know that needs attention:
One-way water valve inoperative; manual shutoff used.
Curbside awning has a 6-inch tear toward the rear.
The entry door is misaligned.
The rear bumper has a dent.
One of the roadside windows is cracked.
Grey and black water valve is sticky.
The lid sensors on some of the ceiling fans are finicky.
Independently Verified
In June 2016, professional appraiser Robert D. DuCharme completed an in-depth physical inspection of this trailer. The finding was a Fair Market Value of $40,500, receiving exceptional condition grades across all categories.
The Modern Appraisal
A score of 1 represents "Excellent" condition. The interior and chassis received near-perfect marks for preservation.
Crucially, this valuation was recorded before an additional $7,500 in off-grid solar and lithium-ion upgrades. Offered at the 2016 appraised price of $40,500, these systems are essentially included at no extra cost.
Download Full Report PDF
Cover letter
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Current Location
The Airstream is currently located in Charlevoix, MI. It is available for in-person viewings for serious inquiries.