When it comes to off-road adventure trailers, the MDC USA XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme and the Palomino Pause 20.3 stand out as two top-tier options. Both are designed for overlanding, providing comfort, durability, and off-grid capability. But which one is right for your next adventure? Let’s break down their key features to help you decide.
Interior Space
MDC XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme
MDC USA has an interior space like no other. The spacious interior is designed to blend comfort and practiciality. With a contemporary mix of warm oak countertops and sleek grey gloss cabinetry with black hardware, the design offers a stylish yet cozy feel throughout. You’ll love the spacious L-Shaped sofa that offers plenty of room for the whole family to enjoy meals together or play a round of cards. And when you’re ready to turn in for the night, the sofa turns into an additional sleeping space. Plus, the Olympic queen bed (79” L x 58” W x 9” H) will ensure a great night’s sleep after a day of fun! The rear bathroom is a standout feature, offering a vessel sink, generous counter space, and a large shower for a truly luxurious experience.
Palomino Pause 20.3
The Pause 20.3 offers a cozy space with standout features. With forest green accents and neutral colors throughout, this modern camper has everything you need to make this space your own. First up is the reclining 60” x 80” bed, perfect for lounging during the day and finally turning in for the night. And if you’re bringing along pets or kiddos, the dinette converts into a small sleeping space. Or, you can opt for a bar-stool seating area that also converts into a sleeping zone.
Plus, the passthrough window perfectly allows a nice breeze inside the camper. The kitchen in the Pause 20.3 includes all of your essentials, including a 2-burner stove, microwave, and large sink, all while giving plenty of counterspace for cook prep. To top it off, the large slide-out pantry is not only space-saving but also has room for all of your essential camping snacks. Last but not least on the Pause 20.3 is the thoughtfully designed dry bath. Differing from the MDC, the 20.3 includes a separate shower and vanity area for a different spatial feel.
Exterior Space
Both MDC USA and Palomino Pause have incredibly impressive exterior designs that give comfort, convenience…and then some. Let’s first jump into the exterior space on the MDC!
MDC XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme
Up first on the XT19HRT OGE is the slide-out kitchen, featuring a 3-burner stove, sink, spice rack, and an additional pull-out prep space. Next to it, a pull-out storage compartment is perfect for a cooler or extra gear. Right next to the door is a storage space with a TV mount and all the necessary plugs, so you’ll never miss a big game while camping again! Walking around to the rear of the camper, you’ll find a full-size off-road spare tire and a sturdy ladder that’ll get you on the walkable roof. Moving to the driver’s side of the XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme is your access to the cassette toilet black tank, outdoor shower, and the rest of your standard hookups. Lastly, you have a large tongue box that stores two 20lb propane tanks and two additional storage compartments for additional batteries or jerry cans.
Palomino Pause 20.3
The Pause 20.3 offers similar outdoor amenities with a few unique touches. It features a pull-out kitchen with a griddle, stove, and a dedicated space for a chest-style cooler. The detachable sink can also be positioned where and when needed. A fold-down bar area is ideal for meal prep or drinks, while recovery tracks enhance off-road capabilities. At the rear, two full-size spare tires and a rear storage garage add functionality and additional space for gear. Lastly, the front storage box houses extra gear and two 30 lb propane tanks.
Storage
MDC XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme
If you are an over packer, chances are you’ll love the storage in the XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme. Surrounded by cabinets, drawers, and wardrobes, this overlander isn’t lacking in space! Plus, as mentioned earlier, the outdoor passthrough compartment provides plenty of room for larger gear. Wardrobes on both sides of the bed create room for keeping clothes fresh during your adventures while the nightstands also provide additional storage for shoes.
Palomino Pause 20.3
In addition to the unique rear storage/garage on the Pause 20.3, the rest of this off-road camper offers plenty of space for essentials. You’ll have access to two shirt closets on either side of the bed, allowing you to hang up clothes during your trip. Additionally, you’ll have a large slide out pantry to store away all your favorite snacks.
Chassis
MDC XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme
Both the MDC USA XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme and Palomino Pause 20.3 come with a robust chassis, allowing you to adventure way off the beaten path. The XT19HRT OGE comes standard with a square tube, welded, galvanized steel frame giving the entire foundation a solid base. Plus, the True Trax Suspension and Cruisemaster DO35 hitch will give you a smooth ride going through rough terrain.
Palomino Pause 20.3
The Palomino Pause 20.3 is built on a MORyde Huck rivet aluminum frame, allowing for a tough foundation ready to withstand all nature throws at it. Additionally, the 20.3 comes standard with a MORryde Independent Air Ride Suspension with Bilstein Shocks and an articulating hitch for the ultimate off-road adventures.
Power Management Systems
Both the Pause 20.3 and the MDC XT19HRT have impressive power management systems, allowing you go off grid for longer periods of time.
MDC XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme
In 2025, MDC USA has moved all of their US power systems to Renogy. Known for producing top of the line systems, Renogy is the heart of the power on MDC USA off road campers. The XT19HRT Off Grid Extreme features an impressive amount of power, allowing you to run all of your electrics and even you’re A/C. First, you’re going to have 1225 Watts of solar with an 800AH lithium battery and a 3000W Pure Sine inverter.
Palomino Pause 20.3
The Pause 20.3 has 2 package options, but we will look at the standard package here. First off, it comes with 600 Watts of solar on the roof and two 270AH lithium batteries. Additionally, you’ll have a 3,000W inverter on board and two 50A solar chargers.
Our Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a remote overlanding trip or a national park tour, both the MDC USA XT19HRT Off-Grid Extreme and the Palomino Pause 20.3 offer premium features and exceptional off-road capabilities. The choice ultimately depends on your needs—whether it’s the MDC’s larger power system and storage options or the Pause 20.3’s unique rear garage and independent air suspension. Either way, both trailers are ready to take your adventures to the next level!
