The entry step is one of the most-used parts on any camper - and one that takes a beating from boots, dust and the occasional knock on a rock. When it's time to replace or upgrade, the first decision is electric or manual. Here's how to choose.
Manual steps
A manual fold-down step is simple, light, cheap and almost nothing to go wrong. You flip it down on arrival and fold it up before you drive. For minimalist off-road builds where every gram and every potential failure point matters, manual is hard to beat. Available as a single step or two-step depending on your door height.
Electric steps
An electric step extends automatically when you open the door and retracts when you close it (or at the push of a button). The convenience is real - especially for families, anyone with mobility considerations, or campers with a high floor. The trade-offs: they draw 12V power, add weight, and have a motor and linkage that can eventually need service. Quality matters most here, since it's a powered mechanism living in dust and mud.
One step or two?
This comes down to your door-sill height. Taller off-road campers (more ground clearance) often need a two-step to make entry comfortable; lower campers are fine with one. Measure from the ground to the door sill before buying.
Which should you buy?
- Choose manual if you want simplicity, low weight, low cost and nothing to fail off-grid.
- Choose electric if you value convenience and easy entry and don't mind the power draw and added complexity.
Browse electric and manual options in the awning & door steps collection. Replacements ship from the US - send us your camper model if you'd like help matching the right step.