Transforming A Camper: Building An Enclosed Trailer

Converting a camper into an enclosed trailer is a challenging but rewarding project. It involves significant DIY work, including electrical and plumbing installation, insulation, and customisation to create a mobile living space. The process typically costs between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the trailer's size and features.

The first step is choosing the right trailer, considering size, weight capacity, and construction quality. The next phase involves designing the layout, including sleeping areas, kitchen, bathroom, and storage. This is followed by building the framework, adding insulation, installing electrical and plumbing systems, and finishing with furnishings, storage, and entertainment systems.

Converting a camper into an enclosed trailer offers a cost-effective and customisable alternative to traditional RVs, allowing individuals to create a mobile living space tailored to their needs and preferences.

Planning and designing the layout

Step 1: Research and Information Gathering

Start by consuming a vast amount of information from various sources such as YouTube tutorials, step-by-step blog articles, and RV shows. This will help you understand the different options available, learn from other people's experiences, and identify what you like and don't like. It will also provide valuable insights into common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Step 2: Create a Wish List

Make a list of all the features and ideas that you like and want to include in your camper. This can include specific design elements, appliances, storage solutions, or any unique additions that cater to your personal needs and preferences.

Step 3: Draft a Floor Plan

Translate your wish list into a practical floor plan by considering the available space and the placement of essential elements. Draft multiple variations to explore different layouts and decide on the best use of your space. Involve others in this process to get feedback and identify potential issues or improvements. Consider the placement of appliances, storage, and seating areas to ensure functionality and ease of use.

Step 4: Set a Budget

Creating a budget is essential to help you stay on track and avoid overspending. The cost of converting a camper can vary depending on factors such as the size of the trailer, the type and quality of materials used, and whether you plan to live in it or use it for occasional trips. Additionally, consider the cost of supplies in your specific location.

Step 5: Choose Your Trailer

If you don't already have a trailer, selecting the right one is crucial. Consider the size, weight capacity, and construction quality to ensure it meets your needs and provides a solid foundation for the conversion. Opt for a trailer with removable screws for inside walls, an extended tongue for mounting propane tanks, and a side door that can be locked from the inside. Custom ordering a trailer with specific features, such as taller interior height or installed windows, can also save you time and effort.

Step 6: Define Living Zones

Create defined living zones within your trailer to establish separate areas for the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and seating areas. This helps optimize the use of space and provides a clear framework for the next steps of the conversion process.

Step 7: Focus on Functionality

When designing the layout, prioritize functionality and efficient use of space. Choose lightweight components and custom-built cabinetry to maximize available cargo capacity and ensure ease of movement within the trailer. Consider the placement of appliances, storage, and seating areas to create a practical and comfortable living environment.

Step 8: Insulation and Temperature Control

Insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the trailer. Use insulation boards on the walls and ceiling to regulate temperature and reduce noise. Additionally, consider installing air fans to improve climate control and address condensation issues.

Step 9: Electrical and Plumbing Systems

Plan and install electrical and plumbing systems to meet your specific needs. Decide on a power source, such as solar panels or batteries, and ensure you have adequate wiring, lighting, and outlets. For plumbing, consider fresh water storage, grey water storage, and efficient water systems. You may also want to include a water heater and plumbing for sink drainage and toilet facilities.

Step 10: Choose Lightweight Materials

To maximize cargo capacity and fuel efficiency, opt for lightweight materials whenever possible. For example, choose vinyl plank flooring, which is durable, flexible, and easy to install. This will also help reduce the overall weight of the trailer, making it easier to tow.

Step 11: Custom-Built Cabinetry

Instead of bulky prefab furnishings, consider building custom cabinetry and amenities to maximize space utilization and create a tailored living environment. This allows you to design storage solutions, seating areas, and sleeping quarters that perfectly fit your specific needs and lifestyle.

Step 12: Entertainment and Finishing Touches

Don't forget to include entertainment systems, such as TVs, speakers, and antennas, to keep yourself entertained on the road. Finally, add the finishing touches, such as flooring, upholstery, lighting fixtures, and decor, to make your converted camper feel like home.

Framing and insulating

Step 1: Remove Existing Walls and Ceiling

If your cargo trailer has existing plywood walls and ceiling, you will need to remove them to prepare for insulation and electrical installation. Strip the trailer down to its bare metal walls and ceiling.

Step 2: Choose Your Framing Material

You can use either wood or metal to frame the interior walls and ceilings of your camper. For wood, 2x4s are a common choice, while metal framing can be more lightweight. Consider the weight and strength of different materials to decide which is best for your project.

Step 3: Frame the Walls and Ceiling

Use your chosen framing material to create the framework for your designated living areas. This will provide structure and anchor points for your cabinetry, appliances, and amenities. Measure and cut the framing material to fit the dimensions of your trailer, ensuring that everything is level and secure.

Step 4: Choose Your Insulation

Insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your camper. The best type of insulation for cargo trailer conversions is rigid foam board insulation, which is typically available in 1-inch, 1.5-inch, and 2-inch thicknesses. Make sure to choose an insulation option that fits within the wall cavities of your trailer.

Step 5: Install the Insulation

Cut the insulation boards to fit snugly between the wall and ceiling cavities. Use a utility knife for precise cuts. Secure the insulation in place by covering all seams with HVAC tape. This will help keep the insulation in place and provide additional moisture resistance.

Step 6: Consider Additional Insulation

While insulating the walls and ceiling is essential, you may also want to consider adding extra insulation in other areas. For example, you can insulate the undercarriage of your trailer to retain more heat during colder months, making your floor warmer. Additionally, if you plan to travel in extremely hot or cold climates, you may want to use spray foam insulation for added thermal protection.

By following these steps, you will create a well-framed and insulated space that is ready for further customisation. Remember to take your time, measure twice, cut once, and always wear the appropriate protective gear when working with tools and materials.

Installing electricity

Step 1: Choose Your Power Source

You have a few options when it comes to powering your trailer, including solar, battery, or generator systems. Solar power is a popular choice for off-grid setups, while batteries and generators offer alternative solutions. Consider your usage needs and the amount of power each system can provide.

Step 2: Plan Your Electrical System

Before you start installing, it's essential to plan your electrical system carefully. Decide on the number and placement of outlets, lights, and any other electrical fixtures. Mark their locations to ensure you run wiring to the right spots.

Step 3: Gather the Necessary Materials

Ensure you have all the required materials, including high-capacity 12V batteries, wiring, a power monitor, and a shore power inlet for your chosen power system. You'll also need basic tools like a drill, saw, and electrical tools for wiring.

Step 4: Run the Wiring

Begin running electrical wiring to the marked locations for outlets and lighting. Consult a professional electrician if needed to ensure your wiring is safe and up to code.

Step 5: Install Outlets and Lighting

Once the wiring is in place, you can install the outlets and lighting fixtures. Make sure to choose fixtures that are suitable for trailer use and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.

Step 6: Test Your Electrical System

After installation, thoroughly test your electrical system. Check that all outlets and lights are functioning correctly and that there are no tripped breakers. Ensure your system can handle the power demands of your appliances and that you have enough outlets in the right places to suit your needs.

Step 7: Consider Additional Electrical Features

Depending on your setup, you may want to include entertainment systems like TVs, speakers, or antennas. You can also add finishing touches like lighting fixtures or USB charging ports for added convenience.

By carefully following these steps, you'll be able to successfully install electricity in your camper-to-enclosed-trailer conversion, ensuring a comfortable and well-lit space during your travels.

Adding plumbing

Plumbing is a crucial aspect of converting a camper into an enclosed trailer, ensuring you have access to essential amenities like running water, a functional kitchen, and comfortable bathing facilities. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process of adding plumbing to your camper conversion:

Planning the Plumbing System:

• Determine your water source: Decide whether you will use a freshwater tank, connect to an external water supply, or a combination of both. Consider the capacity and placement of your water tank if you opt for one.
• Map out the plumbing routes: Plan where your pipes will run, taking into account the locations of your kitchen, bathroom, and any other fixtures that require plumbing.
• Create a list of fixtures and fittings: Identify all the plumbing fixtures you intend to install, such as sinks, showers, toilets, and water heaters. This will help you determine the required pipe lengths and any additional components needed.

Installing the Plumbing:

• Frame and insulate: Before beginning plumbing work, ensure that you have completed the framing and insulation of your trailer. This provides a stable structure to work with and ensures that pipes are protected from freezing temperatures.
• Install water pipes: Use PVC pipes to run water lines from your water source to the various fixtures. Secure the pipes along the walls or floor of the trailer, taking care to avoid sharp bends or kinks.
• Connect drainage pipes: Install pipes for drainage, ensuring they slope slightly downwards to facilitate water flow. Connect these pipes to your greywater tank or an appropriate disposal system.
• Install fixtures: Fit your chosen plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, showers, and toilets, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure a secure connection to the water supply and drainage pipes.
• Test for leaks: Once all the pipes and fixtures are in place, test the system by running water through it. Check for any leaks or drips and make necessary adjustments to ensure a watertight seal.

Additional Considerations:

• Water heating: If you plan to have hot water, consider the type of water heater you will use. Options include tankless water heaters, which provide instant hot water, or storage tank heaters, which maintain a reserve of heated water.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in areas with plumbing fixtures, especially the bathroom. Install exhaust fans to prevent moisture buildup and improve air circulation.
• Water conservation: Consider ways to conserve water, such as using low-flow showerheads or installing a water filtration system to allow for drinking tap water, reducing the need for bottled water.
• Plumbing accessories: Don't forget the little things that make a big difference, such as faucet aerators, which help reduce water usage, or pipe insulation, which prevents freezing and bursting in cold weather.
• Easy access for maintenance: When routing pipes, choose paths that will allow for future maintenance and repairs. This ensures that leaks or clogs can be addressed without having to tear apart your trailer's structure.

Furnishing and decorating

Once you've converted the structure of your camper, it's time to furnish and decorate. This is where you can really make the space your own. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Seating and Sleeping

Consider a Murphy bed, which can be folded up into the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. Alternatively, a raised bed with storage space underneath is a great option if you need to accommodate multiple people or pets. A trifold bed or futon can also double as a couch for lounging and hanging out. If you're short on space, you could install a murphy desk with a bench or chairs that can be tucked underneath.

Kitchen

For the kitchen, you can source cabinets or cabinet doors from second-hand stores and sand them down, stain or paint them to match your colour scheme. For the countertop, a butcher block is a beautiful and practical option. Add a deep bar-style sink to optimise space, and consider a tankless water heater to provide hot water for washing dishes and taking showers. For cooking, a camp stove that can be stored away is ideal, and a 12-volt mini RV fridge can fit neatly under the countertop.

Flooring

When it comes to flooring, vinyl plank flooring is a durable and flexible option that is easy to install. It has the visual appeal of hardwood at a fraction of the cost. Just remember to pick flooring that won't break when the trailer is in motion.

Decor and Finishing Touches

Now it's time to add your own splash of flavour with decorations and accessories. You can hang artwork or install a TV and speakers for entertainment. Don't forget to include storage solutions like cabinets, drawers, and shelving to keep your space organised and clutter-free. Finally, install lighting fixtures and upholstery to make your camper feel like home.

Frequently asked questions