Small Camping Trailers

Outdoor Living On A Shoestring: Small Camping Trailers

If you like to go camping and want the benefit of a trailer but cannot afford the larger models, or cannot tow those huge beasts, you should look into small camping trailers as an affordable option. The following are some options.

Teardrop Trailers. These small camping trailers are small teardrop-shaped trailers, originally developed around the earlier part of the previous century. Many people construct one for themselves as there are many kits and design plans for these types. They are your basic, no-frill, small camping trailer. They are currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity.

The Collapsing Box Trailers. These are much like the tent trailers in appearance when they are closed up, but when they are opened, hard-sided walls come out, and this provides a much more sturdier shelter than tenting material. Out of all of the different types of small camping trailers, I would prefer to live in the collapsing-box type if I am camping during the wet and rainy seasons (Fall and Spring), as this type offers a much more sturdy shelter from the elements.

Truck Caps. Most people would not think of this as a small camping trailer, but it should be added to our list. These are tops for pickup trucks, usually not too heavy, and when attached to the truck provide enough room for one or two people to sleep in. Hunters, in particular (at least ones that I have known) like this type of shelter, as they can go right in and set up camp in the field during hunting season. If properly insulated and heated, they can even be used in very cold weather. This is a good choice in small camping trailers if you are on a limited budget.

Accessories. What choices in accessories do you have if you own a small camping trailer? One of the most useful is electrical brakes, to help bringing your trailer unit to a complete stop when your vehicle does. Many states require these, at least for those over a certain length or weight. Of course you will need a tow hitch, one that is suitable for your towing vehicle. The trailer hitch can be either welded to your vehicle frame, or bolted. It is best to have these professionally attached, and matched for the size (weight) of the trailer you will be pulling. In addition, your small camping trailer should come equipped with safety chains. Why do you need them? Well, if the trailer hitch would break, the chains will keep the trailer from getting loose from your vehicle, and will also keep the tongue from hitting the ground.

Creature Comforts. Unless you really desire to get back to primitive times, it is nice to outfit your small camping trailer with some comforts of home, such as propane gas tanks, a refrigerator/freezer, a good stove, water tanks, a propane furnace (for heating in the colder weather), hot water heater, toilet, shower, exhaust fans, and other equipment. While purists may criticize, these types of add-on products can make small camping trailers more versatile, allowing for camping in multi-seasonal weather conditions.