Are you a seasoned tent-camper who is tired of dealing with wet gear after a rainstorm? Sick of sleeping on the hard, rocky ground? Just looking for your next project? Then it might be time that you consider building your own teardrop trailer!
On this site you will find some general information about teardrop trailers, but more specifically, information on the two convertible teardrop trailers designed and built by Zach, the owner of Z. Kaylor Designs.
You may already be familiar with teardrop trailers from seeing them at campgrounds or on TV, but you can read a little bit more about them in the sliding panel to the right.
Please note that Z. Kaylor Designs does not build teardrops for purchase. Unless noted otherwise, the convertible teardrop trailers on this site are only prototype and personal trailers. The only completed teardrop trailers for sale are listed on the classified page, and may not necessarily be designed or built by Z Kaylor Designs.
Note: This website is best viewed with Mozilla Firefox
A Teardrop is not a space ship. Its a box on two wheels. They are only as complicated as you make them. Some have very elaborate cabinets and woodwork, built-in sinks with water pumps, and LCD TV/DVD combos.
My convertible is pretty basic, and so were my tools. I used wrenches to assemble the trailer frame, and cut all the wood using a circular saw and a handheld jigsaw. The only thing that I didn't have was a handheld belt sander, which I borrowed from friend. All three of these power tools can be purchased fairly cheap at a discount tool store, such as Harbor Freight Tools.
As far as time is concerned, you can take as long as you want! The only deadline is the one you make. Some people start building in the early Spring in hopes of making Summer trips, while a few people actually take years to complete their master- pieces. Just build at your own pace!
Teardrops come in many shapes and sizes, and their options can vary just as much. Two of the most popular commercially built Teardrops are Little Guy Teardrops, and Camp-Inn Teardrops. A new Little Guy will cost you between $3000 and $9,000, while a Camp-Inn Raindrop 560 could set you back as much as $18,000!
Another other option is to buy a used camper. A search of Craigslist often turns up a used teardrop that is for sale. If you can't find a used one with the features you want, then you could search for a private builder who will collaborate with you and construct a camper to suit your needs. Your last option (and the most fun) is to build one yourself!
A teardrop is a small travel trailer which was popular back in the 30's, 40's,and 50's. The name is derived from the areodynamic shape that many of the tiny travel trailers employ.
They are an attractive option to a larger RV due to their cost, maneuverability, and minimal effect on gas mileage. Many teardrops weigh around 1,000lbs when loaded with gear, which makes it possible for almost any vehicle to pull.
Most are based on either a 4x8 or 5x10 trailer, and can comfortably sleep 2 adults. Some are as wide as 6 feet and can provide room for children as well.