What's your take: TearDrop / SquareDrop / Micro-Camper/Trailer

[MPMB]

For any DIY builders... I know it varies by state, but what did you have to do to get it registered ?

My state doesn't require a title, but they do make you apply for a VIN , then the state sends a plate that has to be attached to the frame. Then you can register it to receive a tag.
I'm not 100% clear, but there might be an inspection somewhere in the process

I know a little about WA's process, assuming similar in other states. Once finished, I think you'll need a trip permit to take it for inspection. Usually it requires inspection either by DMV or State Patrol, making sure the right lights are there, safety chains, etc.

I do not believe they require a level of craftsmanship, or do any structural testing, judging what I've seen on the road. It's amazing what people can do with a HF trailer.

Trailers also have to be weighed, iirc. Once all that is done, you take your paperwork to the state licensing office. Show your receipts/certifications, and they'll gladly take your money, and you'll get a piece of tin and a sticker.

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[MPMB]

Oh, and a cooling apparatus that seems to be an acceptable alternative to real AC units.

the IcyBreeze.

 

[mdyucca]

I have a 6x12 cargo camper that I converted into my fishing/camping Shack. I like it a lot.
I raised it four inches as it was pretty low to the ground when I bought it.
Put a bed, AC, small counter in it.
Built a back wall so I can use the ramp door as a patio when camping.
I carry a honda 2000 watt generator so I can sleep with the AC on when its hot (Texas camping can get hot)

Im guessing it weighs abt 2500 (was 1500 lbs new).

Looks like you did a great job configuring a utility trailer into a camper. What AC were you able to find that will work with the Honda 2000 generator?

 

[lowRail]

Picked it up last Friday.

After years of looking for the right travel trailer, we gave up. We just need something basic that is technically "hard sided" for camping in bear country.

For our future trips, we can have a base camp and take the truck off on adventures. RTT are a PITA if you want to go anywhere when you're camping.

First additions will be a front storage box, interior furnishings and storage, maybe a solar power system, 8 gal. water tank, and eventually an awning.

The first hiccup we have to fix/solve is a fridge. We have one, but it's too tall to fit in the shelves in the back. So either we leave it in the truck (and power it when parked), the "living" section of the trailer, or find a shorter fridge to fit in the back of the trailer.

I have propane tanks, but will pick up a 5lb or 10lb one for dedicated camping. I also have a propane on-demand water heater that I need to put in the case for portability.

How much do these run you on average?

 

[MPMB]

How much do these run you on average?

they start at $7k for the bare bones one, iirc. Their pricing is very transparent. They have built ones in stock around the country, those usually start around $12k and go up around $20k. I don’t think they exceed $30k unless you request something crazy.

 

[kb5zcr]

Looks like you did a great job configuring a utility trailer into a camper. What AC were you able to find that will work with the Honda 2000 generator?

Well, the honda 2000 will power just like a 15 Amp wall outlet. Any AC that draws less than 15 amps should work.
I have a 14000 btu AC that the surge current is just too much for it now days (4 yrs later), sometimes it will start it, sometimes not.when the AC was new the honda 2000 would start it, but not 4 yrs later.

I have a 5000 btu AC in the camper now and the honda 2000 powers it fine. I would not hesitate to put an 8000 btu AC in it, the honda 2000 should be able to handle that.

 

[Glad Jeeper]

We have fallen in love with this setup. It pulls awesome. We had to remove the OE suspension, put Timbren under this trailer with wheel spacers and Jeep wheels. We love that we can stand in the trailer and change.

 

[GeneralMaximus]

Well, the honda 2000 will power just like a 15 Amp wall outlet. Any AC that draws less than 15 amps should work.
I have a 14000 btu AC that the surge current is just too much for it now days (4 yrs later), sometimes it will start it, sometimes not.when the AC was new the honda 2000 would start it, but not 4 yrs later.

Did your 14k A/C have soft start?

 

[Mboy605]

I have an Outbound T-Rex camper that is classified as a utility trailer. This is pretty sweet with stock 35” tires. I’ve out in a heater, ac, and TV with a two batter system. I’ve considered selling it due to having a new child and not using it as much as I’d hope but great set ups for sure with the “lock and roll” hitch system for taking it anywhere!

 

[kb5zcr]

Did your 14k A/C have soft start?

No soft start, I never went that route, I have a Harbor Freight Predator 3500 watt generator that runs it when needed and its fine. I've been thinking abt these new fangled "inverter AC" units when its time to upgrade. I doubt I'll ever buy an AC unit that isn't "inverter" style these days.

 

[Florida Mojave]

This is a good option if your still undecided.....rent one before you purchase....

RV Rentals: Explore the Open Road in Comfort | Outdoorsy

 

[Cory R]

Hello my fellow travelers/campers !

Im getting ready to pull the trigger on a semi-offroad micro camper/trailer.

I am retired military, so I am definitely familiar with "roughing it"... but true camping is a different animal, especially when you add in a teardrop or micro camper and the materials to support it to the mix.

I'm opening the thread for your experiences, suggestions and stories. (Pics are a plus. I will post mine once the purchase is final).

It would be great to here from the DIY guys pertaining to their build and some background of why you made the choices you did.

 

[Cory R]

Hello my fellow travelers/campers !

Im getting ready to pull the trigger on a semi-offroad micro camper/trailer.

I am retired military, so I am definitely familiar with "roughing it"... but true camping is a different animal, especially when you add in a teardrop or micro camper and the materials to support it to the mix.

I'm opening the thread for your experiences, suggestions and stories. (Pics are a plus. I will post mine once the purchase is final).

It would be great to here from the DIY guys pertaining to their build and some background of why you made the choices you did.

I have an Off Grid Pando. Until recently I pulled it with a JL. Upgraded to a Gladiator for better towing capacity and extra room for cargo.

 

[Jrgunn5150]

This is my third sub-1000 pop up.

I buy them used and in good condition, throw my 100 AH LiFepo4 battery in with a 3000w inverter, 300w of panels, diesel heater, Coleman stove.

Stabilizers off, spring over axle lift, pintle hitch.

Get 3-4 years out of them using them 3-4 times a year for 1-2 weeks at a time.

Once a lift cable breaks or roof springs a leak, I give them away for scrap and repeat the process.

 

[Desirayray]

Used for 10k. They are out there!!

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