Teardrop Campers are ideal for individuals or couples looking for comfortable camping accommodations after an active day of hiking and exploration. Some models also come equipped with amenities like an awning, stovetop and solar panels.
Most DIY teardrop campers will be built onto a flatbed trailer. Generally, a 4' x 8' trailer will work well as the foundation of your camper. However, some people opt for a 5' x 8' trailer with space for a queen-sized bed.
The Foundation
Teardrop campers provide an ideal entryway into RVing without incurring the costs or effort associated with full-sized camper trailers. These lightweight campers can be easily towed behind any small car or truck and customized to match your camping style.
Teardrop trailers were initially invented during post-World War II by soldiers using surplus materials like old Jeep wheels and aluminum from fighter jets as material to construct them. Once popular, teardrop campers quickly became homebuilt kits available to individuals to assemble in their garages; some manufacturers even produced mass-produced versions ready to be taken with you when completed.
Today, both independent brands and major RV manufacturers produce teardrop campers as a non-traditional subcategory of their travel trailer lines. Though more costly than DIY versions, many find the convenience of having one ready-made well worth paying more.
As you shop for a teardrop trailer, it is important to consider the living space and features you require when camping. Some campers include tri-fold beds which can be folded out into sofas during the daytime; other options might include an exterior hatch or built into the trailer that offers access to an accessible kitchen where cooking while standing outside is an option.
As the core component of your teardrop camper, the cabin will determine your comfort during travel. Look for features such as screened windows and ventilation that allow natural light into the cabin while keeping out bugs and rodents. Also keep in mind how much storage you will require for both gear as well as personal belongings during camping trips.
Consider what amenities would help make your camper more inviting during travel, such as stovetops connected to propane tanks, refrigerator coolers that store drinks and food, shaded areas for meals outdoors and relaxing during hot days, etc.
The Frame
Teardrop trailers are small campers designed to be easily pulled by most cars equipped with hitches. Fabricated by professional partners specializing in their construction, teardrop trailers are usually constructed using aluminum or steel for strength and longevity.
Building miniature rigs from scratch can be challenging and time-consuming; however, their benefits make the effort worthwhile for many people.
Given their small size and lightweight, teardrop campers can be more easily maneuvered on and off of roads than larger RVs, making them particularly suitable for those who want to explore more off-the-beaten-path campgrounds or park more easily in tight spaces such as driveways or garages.
Camper vans can be more challenging to maneuver and park, while teardrop trailers offer easy entry/exit access, making them an excellent option for day trips or spontaneous camping adventures.
Lightweight campers offer another advantage in that they can be pulled by almost any car - including those with lower gas mileage or older models. Also, those on tight budgets can save money by opting for used trailers in good condition that still meet your needs.
Most teardrop trailers are built primarily for sleeping purposes; however, some offer enough room for dinette seating and dining area setup. If you require plenty of storage space for living and camping gear, larger models might be more appropriate.
Considerations when purchasing a teardrop trailer include its frame type, storage space capacity and amenities. Some frames are constructed from welded steel while others feature bolt-together joints; generally speaking, cheaper frames made of welded steel tend to rust more rapidly over time than their bolt-together counterparts; to prevent this happening more rapidly some owners suggest installing galvanized coating for their trailers to protect from this.
If you plan to spend significant time in your teardrop camper, then one with a bathroom may be ideal. NuCamp was one of the first companies to introduce such amenities into its teardrop campers; their Tab 400 self-contained model includes toilet, shower and sink facilities. Other companies are starting to adopt similar models but before making your decision it is wise to read reviews before purchasing such an RV.
The Interior
When purchasing a teardrop camper, its interior can play an essential role in how comfortable camping will be. More modern models may provide similar comforts found in larger RVs but remain small enough to be pulled behind most vehicles with trailer hitches.
Teardrop trailer interiors typically consist of a sleeping area that doubles as living space and kitchen in larger models, while smaller campers typically feature just a sleeping cabin for adults to retreat to while younger family members sleep soundly at night. An open design may offer more natural lighting while avoiding feelings of isolation; such as opening the windows every so often to bring in fresh air and not feel closed in.
Teardrop campers with larger interior spaces often include a galley kitchen which can be accessed via an exterior hatch for cooking purposes. This typically includes a stovetop, fridge, sink and other features to allow you to stay inside during mealtimes rather than being subject to changing weather conditions when dining outside your tent.
Some traditional teardrop campers feature bathrooms, but not all. Wet baths are typically found within these teardrop campers; with both toilet and shower in one compact space. When purchasing one with bathrooms it's important to think carefully about your space needs as these teardrop campers typically cost more.
Teardrop campers provide an ideal way to experience RV life without investing in an expensive recreational vehicle. Light, durable, and easy to transport, teardrop campers allow you to travel on almost any adventure imaginable. Check Outdoorsy or contact Camping World directly for models that match your criteria, or rent one before committing.
The Finishing Touches
Teardrop campers have seen significant popularity growth over recent years and it's easy to understand why: these compact RVs are lightweight, easy to tow and offer comfortable accommodations without all of the hassle associated with tent camping.
Teardrop campers may not be ideal for families camping together, but they make great options for individuals or couples looking to experience nature more comfortably. Plus, teardrops tend to be more economical and require less maintenance costs compared with full-sized RVs.
If you plan on building your own teardrop camper, it is essential that you budget for all materials necessary. Aside from plywood and aluminum costs, additional expenses include paint, wallpaper, wood slats for walls, pillows, blankets, hooks baskets pictures or anything else you might add as decorations to finish off its appearance. All these final touches can have a significant effect on its final look!
Once your frame is completed, the next step should be building walls and roof. Next comes installing any necessary wiring for interior and exterior fixtures as well as insulation of your camper - once these basic tasks have been accomplished you can begin adding doors and windows of your teardrop camper!
Dependent upon your design, you may also require a galley area for cooking. Most often located at the rear of your trailer and accessible through an outside hatch, basic teardrop trailers typically don't include galleys; while more luxurious designs may include stovetops, faucets, efficient storage for food supplies and refrigerators.
Once your teardrop camper is completed, it's time to hit the road! Finding an off-the-beaten-path camping spot won't be difficult if you bring along all your gear - don't forget Roamly's instant quote for RV insurance to save money and protect your camper before heading out on your first camping trip - we look forward to hearing about all your photos and adventures from your travels - be sure to share your DIY teardrop camper on social media so we can follow it along the way!