Tiny House Vs Camper: Why Choose Cramped Quarters?

The tiny house movement has gained traction in recent years, with more people seeking to simplify their lives, reduce their belongings, and live more sustainably. As a result, there's been a debate in tiny living circles about the pros and cons of tiny houses vs. campers/RVs. The choice depends on individual needs and preferences, but here's an introduction to the topic, outlining some key considerations.

Tiny houses, typically ranging from 100 to 400 square feet, offer a more traditional, homey feel. They are often custom-built, allowing for unique features and a wide range of architectural designs. They are generally better insulated and more weatherproofed than campers, and can be designed with sustainability in mind, featuring systems like composting toilets and solar panels. However, they are less mobile and can be more challenging to insure and comply with zoning regulations.

Campers or RVs (recreational vehicles), on the other hand, are designed for frequent travel and are more affordable and lightweight. They are easier to maintain and insure, and there is a larger community of people living full-time in RVs. However, they may not offer the same level of customisation and may not be suitable for year-round living due to weatherproofing and insulation concerns.

Tiny houses are more customisable and can be built to order

When it comes to customisation, tiny houses are the clear winner. They are often built to order or designed by the homeowner, allowing for a wider variety of looks and architectural designs. Buyers have more flexibility to add unique features and change the overall look or layout in ways that RVs do not.

RVs do offer some options for customisation or equipment upgrades, but these tend to be limited to changing the interior of the vehicle. If you want to add your own choice of materials inside and out, a tiny house is the better option. With a tiny house, you can choose the materials and finishes you want, including those with low-VOC characteristics, which is especially important for those with chemical sensitivities.

The customisation options for tiny houses are endless. To date, we've seen modernist gems, old rustic caravans, and even aspects of Moroccan culture or gothic architecture incorporated into tiny house designs. You can also install RV-type plumbing and choose whether to connect to a power source, install a generator, or have a solar panel roofing.

If you're looking for a home that you can truly make your own, a tiny house is the way to go.

Tiny houses are more permanent and better insulated

When it comes to the tiny house vs camper debate, there are several factors to consider. One key distinction is that tiny houses are generally more permanent structures, offering a sense of solidity and permanence that campers may lack. They are also typically better insulated, making them more suitable for year-round living in various climates.

In terms of aesthetics, tiny houses resemble traditional homes, with a variety of architectural designs and the option to customise both the exterior and interior to one's taste. This sense of individuality and permanence can make a significant difference to those downsizing from a larger home. The ability to choose one's own materials is particularly appealing to those with chemical sensitivities or a desire to live in an eco-friendly, non-toxic space.

The customisation of tiny houses extends to their functionality, with owners able to choose insulation and heating/cooling options suited to their local climate. This flexibility means tiny houses can be well-suited to a range of environments, from cold winters to hot summers. Campers, on the other hand, are generally not designed for year-round use and may struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures in extreme weather.

The permanence and customisability of tiny houses often come at a cost, however. They are typically heavier and more difficult to transport than campers, and the process of moving them can be complex and expensive. In contrast, campers are designed for mobility and ease of travel, with lightweight construction and aerodynamic shapes.

While campers have their advantages, particularly for those who plan to move frequently, tiny houses offer a more permanent, customisable, and insulated option that may be preferable for those seeking a greater sense of stability and individuality in their living space.

Tiny houses are more eco-friendly

There are several reasons why tiny houses are considered more eco-friendly than campers. Firstly, tiny houses are generally better insulated and weatherproofed than campers. Owners can choose the type of insulation and heating or cooling options that suit their needs and local climate. In contrast, campers are typically not designed for winter use and may not withstand seasonal weather changes.

Secondly, tiny houses offer more options for customisation and the use of non-toxic materials. Owners can select finishes with low-VOC characteristics, which is especially important for individuals with chemical sensitivities. It is nearly impossible to find a chemical-free camper due to mass manufacturing processes.

Thirdly, tiny houses are often built with the specific intention of minimising their environmental impact. They may incorporate features such as composting toilets and solar panels, reducing their reliance on external resources. Tiny houses on foundations typically have the lowest environmental impact and some are entirely self-sufficient.

Additionally, the maintenance requirements of tiny houses and campers differ. Campers may require specialised maintenance due to the unique nature of their components, making it challenging to find the right repair person while on the road. In contrast, maintaining a tiny house is similar to regular home maintenance, with the addition of trailer maintenance if the tiny house is on wheels.

Lastly, the construction materials and techniques used for tiny houses and campers differ. Tiny houses are typically built with similar materials and techniques as traditional homes, resulting in a more solid and well-built structure. Campers, on the other hand, are constructed with lightweight, aerodynamic materials that may not be as durable or environmentally friendly.

Tiny houses are easier to finance and insure

When it comes to the debate of tiny houses versus campers, there are several factors to consider. One key advantage of tiny houses is their customisability and the ability to choose non-toxic, eco-friendly materials. This is especially important for those with chemical sensitivities. In contrast, campers are mass-manufactured, making it nearly impossible to opt for chemical-free options.

Additionally, tiny houses are generally better insulated and weatherproofed than campers, as they are custom-built to suit the owner's preferences and local climate. Campers, on the other hand, are not typically designed for year-round use and may not hold up well to seasonal weather changes.

In terms of zoning regulations and insurance, tiny houses may occupy a legal grey area and can be challenging to insure. They are a relatively new segment of the housing market, and local laws and zoning regulations may impose specific requirements like minimum square footage. As a result, they may be more complicated to insure or secure loans for when compared to traditional homes.

However, there are places where the rules may allow for legal full-time residence in a tiny house, and these structures can be hooked up to municipal services. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and find creative solutions to navigate the legal complexities.

In contrast, campers, also known as recreational vehicles (RVs), are a well-regulated vehicle type, and it is generally easier to purchase and insure them. RVs are designed for frequent travel and are built with lightweight, aerodynamic materials, making them easier to move and tow than tiny houses.

While tiny houses may present more challenges in terms of financing and insurance due to their novelty, they offer advantages in customisation, insulation, and the use of non-toxic materials. It is important to carefully consider your priorities, local regulations, and intended use before making a decision between a tiny house and a camper.

Tiny houses are more spacious and comfortable

While RVs are great for those who want to be on the go, tiny houses are ideal for those who want to stay in one place. They are more spacious and comfortable, and you can customise them to your liking.

More spacious

RVs are designed for frequent and extended travel, and as such, they are made of lightweight materials and are more compact and aerodynamic. Tiny houses, on the other hand, are built with similar materials and techniques as traditional homes and have a wider variety of looks and architectural designs. They are more spacious and can offer a more comfortable living space, especially if you plan to live in one place for an extended period.

More comfortable

The traditional look and feel of tiny houses can make you feel more at home. They also have higher ceilings, which make the space feel larger. You can also add drop-down decks and stairs to access your tiny house, which is not possible with an RV.

Customisable

With a tiny house, you can choose the materials and finishes you want. You can opt for quality materials that are enjoyable to live with and look at every day. You can also choose finishes with low-VOC characteristics, which is especially important for those with chemical sensitivities. In contrast, it is nearly impossible to find a chemical-free RV.

More flexibility

While RVs are designed for mobility, tiny houses offer more flexibility in terms of customisation. They come in various shapes, sizes, builds and aesthetics, including modernist gems, old rustic caravans, and even aspects of Moroccan culture or gothic architecture. You can also install RV-type plumbing and choose your own insulation and heating and cooling options to suit your needs and local climate.

Frequently asked questions