International Harvester introduced the Travelall in 1953 as one of the first competitors to the forerunner of the category, the Chevrolet Suburban. Like the Suburban, the Travelall was a large, multi-passenger station wagon built atop a robust truck chassis, combining people carrying space with truck-like practicality. To promote their light truck offerings, International traded on their reputation in the heavy-duty and agriculture market, and they enjoyed steady enough sales for the Travelall to live through several generations. Also like its rival, the Travelall was available in multiple lengths and configurations, from two-wheel-drive ½ ton to ¾ ton four-wheel-drive, and a range of six-cylinder and V8 options. The fourth and final generation debuted in 1969 with new underpinnings based on the D-Series pickup, and styling that reflected the highly successful Scout. While the big Travelall was never quite as popular as the Scout and Scout II, International boasted very high customer satisfaction and loyalty, thanks to the robust nature of these workhorses. As early sport-utility vehicles enjoy newfound appreciation from collectors, the International Travelall is a relative rarity. It is an intriguing alternative to a contemporary Suburban, with a unique character and a reputation for quality.

This 1973 Travelall 1010 Custom is a well-optioned, highly original example. Presented in dark metallic green with the optional Deluxe exterior package, it is a remarkably well-preserved truck that is almost untouched save for a respray in the original color. The deluxe option added such niceties as full wheel covers, additional body side moldings, and that most iconic bit of 1970s automotive Americana, woodgrain vinyl trim. That this truck survived so well preserved is a testament to the build quality of these famously robust vehicles. The paint is finished to good driver standards, with a glossy finish and consistent fit of the exterior trim. It wears correct original wheels with deluxe wheel covers and new, period-correct narrow-band whitewall radials.

The capacious interior is trimmed in ultra-1970s green brocade upholstery, with superb original carpets and door panels. From front to rear, the upholstery is in near showroom condition, including the molded-in rubber floor mats and carpeted rear cargo area. The matching green dash is in excellent condition, free of fading or sun damage, and fitted with all original switches and controls. There is a proper factory-fitted three-spoke steering wheel, and factory options include a column shifted automatic transmission, air conditioning, and a radio.

International’s 392 cubic-inch (6.4-liter) V8 provides an ocean of torque, and while it won’t win many stoplight drag races in the big Travelall, it is famously robust and virtually bulletproof. This example has been well maintained, and it runs and drives well. The engine presents in honest original condition under the hood. Features include 3-speed automatic transmission, power brakes, power steering, and a/c to ensure it cruises effortlessly and comfortably. This truck also features the optional tow package, which adds dual fuel tanks and a trailer hitch, among other improvements.

The Travelall was rare in its day, and most were worked hard, making survivors particularly scarce. This wonderfully preserved example is brimming with character and is a delightful family-friendly classic, ready to haul most of a little league team out for ice cream or to take the gang on an extended camping trip in distinctive style.

Offers welcome and trades considered 

Sorry this car has been sold. Are you looking to buy or sell a car like this? Contact a representative