Hi Folks, Has anyone on here built themselves a micro (teardrop/box) camping trailer ??. I've been thinking of doing one for ages on an 8foot x 4 foot (1220 x2440cm for you younger ones) trailer frame. I've looked at many home builds on US sites, which have given me many ideas for a super lightweight unit. I do a lot of sea fishing and it would be very handy as I'm 66 and no Hussain bolt. Sleeping in a tent is no longer an option.. Views and ideas would be most welcome..
Some folding caravans look pretty boxy to me. Wonder what George Clark would do for an Amazing Spaces program? Getting a trailer tent might be another easier option.
Given the number of questions about damp problems causing damage, keeping water out may be the key to DIY success.
Hi Fiona, I've been down the trailer tent route a few times now, and to be honest I hav'nt found one small enough just for one/two persons, Also can be Very draughty to an old body like mine, also the time for setup when you arrive. With what I plan is pull onto site, unhook, go fishing.. Also I can tow this with a small car, as I hope it wont exceed 300Kg max, hopefully a lot lighter.. It will be wired with 240volt as well as a 12volt electrics through a garage consumer trip unit.
Yep Jeff great concept that you have there, I have seen many “Tear Drop” units whilst over in France, although I would not say they are light weight units, so you might be onto something with a micro version.
Thinking about the weight, even my icle camping trailer empty tips the scales at 215kg and when full of kit is 550kg so I think your 300kg or less could be a little optimistic, although I am not saying it can’t be done.
Ok Jeff. Minded of something I’d seen on site, what about a “cargo tow box trailer” like Debon or Brenderup. The Brenderup has a lifting roof / lid, the Debon looks smarter. 1300 kg but watertight & structurally sound. You still need to make it habitable - ventilation especially, maybe a window (or just lift the lid...)
I think that your project is a good idea at the moment, forward looking & a distraction from the news.
Hi Fiona, The other reason to build this is, A. I already have a trailer frame. B. to keep cost to absolute minimum. having been a trucker for 5 years I know the advantage of a good bed and full nights sleep. Anything else that will fit inside is a bonus. The extras would need carefull thought, but if I build modular units I can move or swap as needed. Some will stay while others will be changed. A good window or two are a must, with one that can be opened, Plus floor and roof vents for air circulation to prevent condensation.. Cant start this till lock down is over and the weather improves as I have to work outside..
1300kg plus interior fixings, probably too much for a small car.
------------- XVI yes?
As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.
no need to over complicate such a thing.. a basic box shape.. a fixed bed with doors or openings in the lower sides to get at what would be loads of under-bed storage..
a door at the rear some windows batteries under the bed and a fan in the roof plus a couple of solar panels..
Have a look at a Dandy folding caravan cum camper. Insulated PVC walls and roof and many walls are wood. Very warm and dry. Can be packed away wet sand left like it until next trip by which time it will be dry.
All the rear entry ones are 500kg max load and the smaller Dart model is half that unloaded.
Inside is 2 doubles, one makes a really comfy settee and a small kitchen.
Big plus is they are braked which means with a small car you have a higher towing capacity than with an unbraked.
Very solid build.
I think a problem with a simple box may be condensation due to lack of insulation.
If you change your mind about building your own teardrop but are after something small and lightweight. take a look at Freedom caravans https://www.freedomcaravans.com/new-caravans/freedom-microlite-sport/
The upside is you have somewhere inside to relax and cook. The downside is they tend to keep their resale value so even second hand ones are not cheap.