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First Look: What’s New in the 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express

Published on Sep 12, 2025 by Cassie Gould

If you’re in the market for a travel trailer that balances comfort, durability, and tow‑friendly features, the 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express line is worth a close look. The Ultra Lite and Select trims build on past designs, but bring several upgrades this year that make them more appealing than ever. In this post, we’ll explore what’s new in the 2026 models, how they compare to prior years, and who stands to benefit most.

What’s Improved in 2026

Here are the key new or enhanced features in the 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express models:

  • Vacuum‑bonded dual‑sided Azdel composite sidewalls: Both interior and exterior walls are built with Azdel composite paired with vacuum‑bonding, improving resistance to moisture, reducing weight, and increasing structural strength. Includes bonded walls with Azdel for superior insulation and durability.
  • Gel‑coated fiberglass front cap with automotive glass windshield: Features a gel coated fiberglass cap as part of the front cap construction for better durability and a more finished look up front, improving how the trailer handles weather and wear. Also includes a coated fiberglass cap w premium finish for exterior durability.
  • 4 gel coated fiberglass exterior shell: The exterior shell uses 4 gel coated fiberglass for enhanced weather resistance and long-lasting appearance.
  • Tufflex PVC roofing with limited lifetime warranty: Roofing w limited lifetime and tufflex pvc roofing w provide long‑term protection against leaks and damage from the elements, backed by a w limited lifetime warranty.
  • Full walk-on roof: Allows users to safely access and maintain the entire roof surface, emphasizing strength and durability.
  • Heated & enclosed underbelly: Great for colder weather, helps with insulation, and protects plumbing and tanks.
  • Freedom solar ready: Standard readiness for a 200W solar panel + 30A controller. Useful for off‑grid use or reducing reliance on campground hookups.
  • Power awning with LED light strip: More convenience and ambiance for outdoor living.
  • Front rock guard: Provides exterior protection from debris, stones, and weather elements during travel.
  • Vaulted bed storage with queen mattress: Under‑bed storage that’s easier to access and offers more usable space, with a queen mattress as standard for comfort.
  • Resistant vinyl flooring throughout: Durable, wear-resistant vinyl flooring throughout the interior, with no carpet for easy maintenance. Floor construction includes plywood decking and a 3-inch aluminum framed floor for stability and lightweight design.
  • Double door refrigerator: Kitchen upgrades now include a double door refrigerator for enhanced storage capacity and convenience.
  • Theater seats: Available seating upgrade in select floorplans for a more comfortable and entertainment-focused experience.
  • Outdoor camp kitchen options: Pull‑out kitchens or outdoor prep areas are more common in 2026 floorplans, enhancing the outdoor cooking experience. Options include a metal camp kitchen for durability, a griddle and side table for outdoor cuisine, and a u tensil drawer for organized utensil storage.
  • Pet leash bottle opener: Built-in outdoor convenience feature for pet owners and campers.
  • Power tongue jack: Standard or upgraded feature for easier hitching and leveling of the trailer.
  • Back up camera prep: Pre-wired and ready for installation of a backup camera system for added safety and convenience.
  • Amplified omnidirectional VHF/UHF antenna system: Advanced antenna system for improved signal reception, including omnidirectional vhf uhf fm and 360 amplified omnidirectional vhf for comprehensive coverage.
  • Optional 4G LTE gateway: Available add-on for enhanced mobile connectivity and internet access.
  • Lighting w dimmer switch: Interior lighting features include lighting w dimmer switch, strip lighting w dimmer, and interior strip lighting w for customizable ambiance and comfort.
  • BTU roof air conditioner: High-capacity roof-mounted air conditioning system for efficient climate control during hot weather.
  • Skylight power vent and power vent in bath: Bathroom features include a skylight power vent, power vent in bath, and a bath porcelain toilet for improved ventilation, natural light, and easy cleaning.
  • Tinted safety glass windows: Enhanced exterior features for privacy, safety, and reduced heat transfer.
  • Express Ultra Lite travel: Freedom Express Ultra Lite models offer lightweight, easy-to-tow options with luxury features and versatile floorplans.
  • Improved towability and lighter weight in many models: Options designed so that today's midsize SUVs and half‑ton trucks can tow more comfortably without overspending or overloading, improving fuel efficiency for cost-effective travel.
  • Smart interior updates: Hidden‑hinge cabinetry, wear‑resistant vinyl (no carpet), kitchen backsplash, USB charging ports, upgraded appliances, and more refined finish materials.

How 2026 Compares to Prior Years

  • Weight and Towability: While several features have been upgraded, many models have maintained a similar unloaded vehicle weight (UVW) or only modest increases. The lightweight construction not only preserves towability for buyers with midsize trucks or SUVs but also contributes to improved fuel efficiency compared to older models.
  • Materials & Construction: The move to more durable roofing, Azdel panels, and fiberglass caps improves longevity and resale value compared to older model years.
  • Amenities & Comfort: Some newer comforts (solar readiness, LED awnings, vaulted storage) weren’t standard or widely available in earlier Freedom Express models.
  • Floorplan Optimization: The 2026 model year sees better use of space (e.g. optimizing storage, better slide‑out layouts) across floorplans.

Models and Floorplans for 2026

The 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express Ultra Lite series brings a fresh lineup of models and floorplans designed to fit a wide range of camping styles and family sizes. These ultra lite travel trailers are engineered with lightweight construction in mind, making them a perfect match for today’s midsize SUVs and half-ton vehicles. Thanks to vacuum bond laminated sidewalls and durable fiberglass exteriors, you get a travel trailer that’s not only easy to tow but also built to withstand the rigors of the road and changing weather conditions.

Within the Freedom Express Ultra Lite lineup, you’ll find top selling floorplans ranging from compact 18-foot models ideal for solo adventurers or couples, all the way up to spacious 36-foot layouts that can comfortably accommodate the whole family. Each floorplan is thoughtfully designed to maximize living space, storage, and comfort, so you can enjoy a packed travel trailer experience without feeling cramped.

Step inside, and you’ll notice the attention to detail: residential-style interiors, modern appliances, and smart storage solutions throughout. The carpetless interior features wear resistant vinyl flooring, making cleanup a breeze after a day of adventure. Hidden hinge cabinetry adds a touch of sophistication while providing easy access to your essentials. LED interior strip lighting with dimmer switches lets you set the perfect mood, whether you’re winding down after a long hike or entertaining friends.

Practicality is at the heart of every 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express Ultra Lite. Standard features include power tongue jacks for easy hitching, E-Z Lube axles for low-maintenance towing, and a heated enclosed underbelly for extended season camping. The Tufflex PVC roofing comes with a limited lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind for years to come. In the bath, you’ll find power vents and skylights that bring in natural light and fresh air, while the rear accessory hitch prep and weight capacity power awning make setup and outdoor living effortless. For added convenience, an outdoor table mounted in the pass-thru storage creates a handy dining or prep area right where you need it.

Coachmen’s reputation for quality shines through in every detail, and with select edition models available, you can choose from a variety of options and upgrades to match your budget and preferences. Whether you’re looking for an affordable entry point with a low estimated payment or a fully loaded ultra lite luxury model, the 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express Ultra Lite series offers flexible monthly payment options to fit your lifestyle. With verification successful waiting, you can trust that each travel trailer meets the highest standards of quality and performance.

Ready to experience the freedom and comfort of a Coachmen Freedom Express? Explore the 2026 Ultra Lite series today and discover why these travel trailers are a top choice for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking adventure without compromise.

Things to Watch Out For

While the 2026 Freedom Express models bring strong improvements, here are trade‑offs or caveats to consider:

  • Cost vs Feature: Upgraded features may increase MSRP, especially in premium floorplans. Buyers should weigh which features they truly need vs what’s nice to have.
  • Payload Capacity: Even with lighter materials, some models have tight cargo carrying capacity once you load gear, food, water, etc. Always check cargo carrying capacity (CCC) relative to your planned use.
  • Climate Considerations: While the heated underbelly and better insulation help, very cold or very hot climates may still stress the units; consider additional insulation or upgraded HVAC in extreme use.
  • Maintenance Needs: Composite walls, fibreglass caps, and upgraded components often require care to avoid damage (e.g. protecting against UV, sealing joints well, etc.).

Who Benefits Most from 2026 Freedom Express

  • Buyers who want a travel trailer towable by a midsize SUV or half‑ton truck without sacrificing comfort.
  • Families or small groups needing multiple sleeping areas, storage, and usable outdoor kitchen/entertainment options.
  • RVers who value durability and long‑term value: those who plan to travel multiple seasons, resale value, and less maintenance.
  • People interested in partial off‑grid use (solar readiness, efficient systems) without going to full off‑grid or custom builds.

Ranking Highlights & Specs

Here are some spec highlights (typical for 2026 Ultra Lite models):

Feature Typical Spec / Example
Length ~22 to 36 ft (varies by floorplan)
Fresh water capacity 50 gallons (standard in many models)
Grey / black water tanks ~35 to 70 gallons depending on model
Bed sizes Queen size standard, some with king size option
Roof height (exterior) ~11 ft in many models
Hitch weight & UVW Designed so middle floorplans are comfortably towable by midsize trucks and SUVs

 

The 2026 Coachmen Freedom Express line makes smarter use of materials and amenities, offering upgraded comfort and durability while keeping towability in check. If you’re considering a travel trailer for family trips, weekend getaways, or light off‑grid use, the 2026 Freedom Express models are a strong contender. The key is to pick the floorplan and feature set that match your priorities — especially weight, storage, and climate readiness.

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