Transforming An Enclosed Trailer Into A Cozy Camper

how to make an enclosed trailer a camper

Converting an enclosed trailer into a camper is a great option for those who want to build their own RV. Starting with an empty trailer, you can design your floor plan and install all your desired fittings, appliances, and furniture. This option is usually more cost-effective than buying a pre-built trailer and allows for more customisation. The process involves insulating the trailer, installing electrical systems, plumbing, and ventilation, as well as adding personal touches to create a comfortable and functional living space.

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It will be cheaper

Converting an enclosed trailer into a camper is a great way to save money. Firstly, enclosed trailers are cheaper to buy than traditional RVs, and you can save even more by buying a pre-owned trailer. Secondly, a DIY conversion will cost less than buying a finished camper, and you can choose to only include the features you need, saving you from paying for things you don't want.

For example, one family chose to build their own cargo trailer camper, which cost them $20,000 in total. This included $12,500 for the trailer and $8,000 for supplies and materials. They noted that a similar-sized factory-built toy hauler travel trailer would have cost them $50,000 or more.

Another source outlines the costs of converting a cargo trailer into a camper, which range from $5,000 to $15,000. Used trailers can cost between $1,000 and $2,500, while new 6x12 trailers cost around $4,000 to $5,000.

If you're looking to save money, it's a good idea to buy a pre-owned trailer and focus on only including the features you need. You can also save money by using reclaimed materials where possible.

Converting an enclosed trailer into a camper is a flexible and budget-friendly option for those wanting to hit the road. With some DIY skills and planning, you can create a customised and cosy home on wheels that suits your needs and budget.

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You can insulate and specify to a higher standard

When building a camper from an enclosed trailer, you can insulate and specify to a higher standard. This means that you can choose the level of insulation you want. For example, you can put 2 or 3 inches of foam on the walls and 6 inches on the roof. This will ensure that your trailer is warm without the need for expensive heating systems.

You can also install a high-spec solar system, which will allow you to go off-grid and save money on RV parks. This is a great option if you want to get away from it all and camp without hookups. You can carry your drinking water with you and invest in a composting toilet and a portable shower.

If you are planning to convert a cargo trailer to a camper, there are a lot of details to consider. Firstly, you will need to remove any existing interior materials, such as thin plywood, and start with a blank interior. Then, you can install insulation, vapour barriers, and electrical systems. You will also need to think about ventilation to prevent the trailer from becoming too airtight.

Another important consideration is weight. By using lightweight materials and careful design, you can keep the weight of the trailer down, which will make it easier to tow and reduce fuel costs. Overall, building your own camper trailer can be a fun and rewarding project that allows you to create a custom space that meets your specific needs.

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It will be more durable and last longer

Aluminium cargo trailers are built to last and are very durable. They are simple, and even if they do need a repair, it will be cheap. They won't get scrapes from tree branches. You can even buy a cargo trailer with a one-piece aluminium roof that is never going to leak and won't need resurfacing. You can expect to use a good cargo trailer for decades.

If you do the conversion yourself, you will learn how everything works. This will mean you are confident and able to fix any small issues without paying money for expensive repairs.

A cargo trailer conversion will be more durable and last longer than a travel trailer. Travel trailers often include expensive solutions for simple problems. They are over-engineered because fancy features sell. They also tend to use fabrics and materials that are not what you would have in your own home. Old used travel trailers can often have problems like water damage, dry rot, leaking tanks, and problems with appliances. The ongoing cost of maintaining a travel trailer will be significantly higher than a conversion cargo trailer.

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It will weigh less, giving better gas mileage

One of the biggest advantages of converting an enclosed cargo trailer into a camper is that it will weigh less than a traditional travel trailer, which means better gas mileage. This is because travel trailers are often over-engineered with unnecessary features, like black tanks, that add weight.

A lighter trailer means more miles for your buck and less stress on your tow vehicle. This is especially important if you're planning on taking your camper on long-distance road trips.

Even a small cargo trailer can be converted into a comfortable living space with clever planning. For example, you can save weight by using curtains instead of doors under your countertops, as shown in one conversion story.

Converting a cargo trailer into a camper is a great option if you're looking for a rugged adventure vehicle that's ready to go wherever you want to take it. It's also a more affordable option, as you can buy a new high-quality cargo trailer for under $3000, compared to travel trailers, which start at a minimum of $10,000.

With a cargo trailer conversion, you have the freedom to design a living space that suits your specific needs and budget. You can keep it simple and focus on essential features, or go for a more luxurious feel—the choice is yours!

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You'll be able to take it off-road

When converting an enclosed trailer into a camper, you'll be able to take it off-road and get off the beaten track more easily. Even a large box trailer can have greater ground clearance, allowing you to go places that you can't with a travel trailer. This opens up a whole new world of low-budget camping possibilities.

To make your trailer suitable for off-roading, consider the following:

  • Use a lightweight frame and suspension.
  • Match the trailer's track width with that of your vehicle's tires. This allows the tires to pack down loose material on soft ground, giving the trailer's tires a more solid surface to roll over.
  • Opt for an axle-less suspension system, which provides more suspension travel and eliminates the need for shock absorbers.
  • Choose durable materials such as aluminium or steel for the trailer body and frame.
  • Ensure your trailer has sufficient ground clearance to handle uneven terrain.
  • Install all-terrain tires that can handle various conditions, such as mud, sand, or snow.
  • Include a spare tire and wheel that match your tow vehicle, in case of emergencies.
  • Consider adding a roof rack or cargo box to store gear and supplies.
  • Equip your trailer with basic amenities, such as a kitchen, sleeping area, and storage solutions, while keeping weight distribution in mind.
  • Install a high-spec solar system to go off-grid and explore remote locations.
  • Ensure your trailer has proper insulation to keep it warm during cold weather camping.

Frequently asked questions

There are several benefits to converting an enclosed trailer into a camper. Firstly, it is a cost-effective option, as you can build a custom trailer for a lower price than a pre-made one. Secondly, cargo trailers are simple to insulate and can be made more durable and long-lasting. Additionally, they weigh less, resulting in better gas mileage and the ability to take them off-road. Finally, you have the freedom to design the trailer to your exact specifications, creating a unique and personalised space.

When choosing the best cargo trailer for your camper conversion, consider the amount of room you will need inside the trailer. Also, check if the trailer can accommodate windows, and inspect it for any water damage, rot, rust, or mechanical problems. Ensure the hitch setup is suitable and the brake lights will work with your tow vehicle.

You can design your own cargo trailer camper conversion floor plans or find pre-made plans online. If your trailer is a standard size, you can find plans on websites like Pinterest or cargo trailer conversion forums. Alternatively, you can hire a designer on Fiverr or Upwork to create specialised plans for you.

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