Airstream International FAQ

What are the dimensions of an Airstream International?

The Airstream International is available in five floor plans, each offering different dimensions. Here's a detailed look at the measurements for each layout:

International 23FB

• Exterior Length: 23 feet 11 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet
• Exterior Height (with A/C): 9 feet 6.5 inches
• Interior Width: 7 feet 7 inches
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 6.5 inches

International 25FB

• Exterior Length: 26 feet 2 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 5.5 inches
• Exterior Height (with A/C): 9 feet 7 inches
• Interior Width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 7 inches

International 27FB

• Exterior Length: 28 feet 2 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 5.5 inches
• Exterior Height (with A/C): 9 feet 7 inches
• Interior Width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 7 inches

International 28RB

• Exterior Length: 28 feet 2 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 5.5 inches
• Exterior Height (with A/C): 9 feet 7 inches
• Interior Width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 7 inches

International 30RB

• Exterior Length: 31 feet 2 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 5.5 inches
• Exterior Height (with A/C): 9 feet 7 inches
• Interior Width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Interior Height (with A/C): 6 feet 7 inches

All floor plans give you the option of choosing between a queen bed or twin beds. The 25FB and 27FB models also offer an optional front bunk bed that fits above the main bedroom.

How many people does an Airstream International sleep?

The sleeping capacity varies by floor plan. The 23FB sleeps up to 4 people, while the 25FB, 27FB, 28RB, and 30RB each sleep up to 6 people.

Every International model includes:

• Choice of a queen bed (60 inches by 75 inches) or twin beds (34 inches by 80 inches each)
• A dinette that converts into sleeping space

The 25FB and 27FB offer an optional front bunk bed measuring 31 inches by 86 inches. This bunk supports up to 150 pounds and works as storage space when not used for sleeping. All beds feature pillow-top memory foam mattresses with quilted bedspreads, decorative throw pillows, and sleeping pillows included.

What kind of vehicle do I need to tow an Airstream International?

The vehicle you need depends on which International floor plan you select. Here are the weight specifications for each model:

International 23FB

• Base Weight: 5,100 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 500 pounds
• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 6,000 pounds

International 25FB

• Base Weight: 5,700 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 860 pounds
• GVWR: 7,300 pounds

International 27FB

• Base Weight: 6,000 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 850 pounds
• GVWR: 7,600 pounds

International 28RB

• Base Weight: 5,900 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 860 pounds
• GVWR: 7,600 pounds

International 30RB

• Base Weight: 6,600 pounds (with LP and batteries)
• Hitch Weight: 900 pounds
• GVWR: 8,800 pounds

Your tow vehicle needs a towing capacity that exceeds the GVWR of your selected model. The 23FB requires a vehicle rated for at least 6,500 pounds, while the 30RB needs at least 9,500 pounds of towing capacity.

Most mid-size and full-size trucks, SUVs, and some larger crossovers handle towing an International well. You'll need a weight distribution hitch system for safe towing. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for specific towing capacity and requirements. The team at Airstream of Des Moines in Altoona can help match your vehicle to the right trailer.

Where can I get service for an Airstream International?

You can get service for your International at Airstream of Des Moines! Our dealership is located in Altoona, Iowa, making us convenient for RV owners throughout central Iowa.

We offer complete service and maintenance for all Airstream models, no matter what year they were made. Our certified Airstream Service Technicians have completed factory training in Jackson Center, Ohio, and continue their education through ongoing training modules to stay current with the latest features and repair methods.

From routine maintenance like seal checks and winterization to warranty work and major restoration projects, our service team is ready to help. We keep common Airstream parts in stock to reduce your downtime and get you back on the road quickly.

Schedule your service appointment by visiting our service page or calling our dealership directly. We're committed to supporting you throughout your ownership experience.

What is the learning curve for owning an Airstream International?

The learning curve for an Airstream International is very manageable, even if you've never owned an RV before. While there's information to learn, most new owners feel comfortable operating their trailer after just a few trips.

When you purchase from Airstream of Des Moines, we provide a thorough delivery walkthrough covering all systems and features. We recommend starting with a trip to a campground within a few hours of home. This lets you learn your trailer in a comfortable setting without the stress of being far away.

Important things to learn include:

• Setting up and leveling your trailer at the campsite
• Connecting utilities including electric, water, and sewer
• Understanding your power system and battery monitoring
• Operating the Smart Control Technology app
• Basic maintenance like checking seals and tire pressure
• Preparing your trailer for seasonal weather changes

The International includes features that make RV life easier, such as powered stabilizer jacks, a powered awning, and Airstream Smart Control Technology that lets you monitor and control systems from your smartphone. These modern features reduce the learning curve compared to older RV models.

Airstream provides excellent online resources through Airstream Academy, featuring videos, articles, and answers to common questions. Every new Airstream comes with three years of Coach-Net 24/7 roadside assistance, so help is always available when you need it.

Most owners find that while the first trip involves learning, everything feels natural by the second or third camping trip. Be patient with yourself and remember that every Airstream owner started exactly where you are.

Does owning an Airstream International make sense living in Iowa?

Yes! Iowa is a wonderful place for Airstream ownership, and the International is perfectly suited for camping throughout the Hawkeye State and beyond.

Four Distinct Seasons: Iowa offers true four-season camping experiences. Summer brings warm weather perfect for lake camping and outdoor activities, with comfortable temperatures from June through August. Spring and fall provide beautiful weather with mild temperatures and stunning scenery, especially during fall foliage season. Many Iowa campgrounds operate from April through November, giving you plenty of camping time each year. Some parks even offer year-round camping for winter enthusiasts who enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

State Parks and Natural Beauty: Iowa has an excellent state park system with campgrounds throughout the region. Ledges State Park near Boone features dramatic sandstone formations and excellent hiking trails. Lake Ahquabi State Park south of Des Moines offers beautiful forested camping with excellent fishing. Walnut Woods State Park provides a peaceful retreat along the Raccoon River. The International's size range makes it perfect for navigating Iowa's state park campgrounds.

Lakes and Recreation: Central Iowa is home to excellent lake camping. Saylorville Lake offers 26,000 acres of water recreation with numerous campgrounds, beaches, and boat ramps. Big Creek State Park provides great fishing, boating, and swimming. Red Rock Lake, Iowa's largest lake, offers fantastic camping and water sports opportunities. Your International gives you comfortable access to all these water recreation areas.

Des Moines River Access: The Des Moines River provides beautiful camping opportunities throughout central Iowa. River Oaks RV Park and other riverside campgrounds offer peaceful settings with fishing, hiking trails, and mature hardwood forests. The International is ideal for enjoying Iowa's river valley camping.

Iowa Events and Attractions: The International makes a perfect home base for experiencing Iowa's famous events. The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines every August is a must-see event, and the fairgrounds offer camping. The National Balloon Classic in Indianola brings hot air balloons from around the country. The Iowa Speedway in Newton hosts exciting racing events. Small-town festivals throughout Iowa provide great camping opportunities all season long.

Equipment Features: The International comes with optional solar panels and lithium batteries, perfect for camping at Iowa's more remote state parks. The 15,000 BTU air conditioning system keeps you comfortable during warm Iowa summers. The 30,000 BTU furnace is essential for spring and fall camping when temperatures can drop at night. The enclosed, insulated, heated underbelly protects your systems during cooler weather, making the International suitable for extended camping seasons in Iowa.

Local Convenience: With Airstream of Des Moines located in Altoona, you have easy access to expert service and support. This makes routine maintenance, repairs, and winterization convenient throughout your ownership. Having a local dealership means you can get help quickly when you need it.

Storage Considerations: Iowa winters require proper winterization and storage for your RV. Many Iowa Airstream owners winterize their trailers and store them during the coldest months. Storage facilities are available throughout the Des Moines area, or you can keep your International at home with proper winterization. The good news is that Iowa's camping season runs from April through November, giving you plenty of time to use your trailer each year.

Regional Travel: Iowa's central location makes it perfect for regional adventures. Drive north to Minnesota's lakes, east to Wisconsin's Door County, south to Missouri's Ozarks, or west to the Black Hills of South Dakota. The International makes weekend getaways and longer trips easy and comfortable.

The International's quality construction, including its riveted aluminum shell and excellent insulation, handles Iowa's varying weather beautifully. From summer lake camping to fall color tours, this Airstream is built for Iowa living. With excellent state parks, beautiful lakes, and great camping throughout the state, owning an International in Iowa means adventure is always close by.