Teardrop Trailers
and Other Tiny RVs

When I first heard about teardrop trailers a few years ago, I thought that they were a recent invention. It turns out that they have been around for at least 70 years!

These ultra lightweight travel trailers were popular in the 1930s and 1940s when hobbyists built their own little trailers in their garages.

With the trend to larger and larger vehicles and RVs, these units declined in popularity and all but disappeared. In recent years, though, they have been making a comeback.

A homemade teardrop trailer parked in a driveway

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Teardrop Trailers
- Advantages

Teardrop trailers keep you off the ground, out of the weather, and safe from bugs and beasts (just like a motorhome, trailer or fifth wheel!)

Like full-sized RV campers, teardrops can be kept packed with all of your camping gear, letting you take off on a trip with little preparation.

They are less expensive than larger RVs.

They use very little fuel because of their light weight (most under than 450 kg/1000 pounds dry weight) and their aerodynamic design.

They can be pulled by the smallest of vehicles - perfect in these days of rising gas prices and environmental concerns.

They are easy to tow.

They are easy to store.

Some teardrop campers can even be pulled by a motorcycle!

While hobbyists are once again building their own small travel trailers in their garages, a number of manufacturers are also making teardrops.

Teardrop Trailers - Features

The smallest model is essentially just a bed on wheels.

A white teardrop trailer with the side door open, revealing a bed

Larger models may have an outdoor kitchen on the back. The kitchen may include a propane stove, sink, water tank and icebox.

Most have battery powered lights.

Some can be connected to a regular electrical outlet, just like a full sized RV.

Higher priced models can be equipped with everything from generators to air conditioners.

You can even buy an awning or an attached tent to increase your living space!

A Tab teardrop trailer with side awning in the sun

Because they use so little fuel, these are the ideal option for a cross-country road trip!

Other tiny trailers

Now that tiny trailers are in fashion again, there are several manufacturers making ultra-small models. Most of these are ideal for one or two people.

Now that they are trendy, I see these units everywhere. I love their compact design. They remind me of little doll houses!

Is your family too big for a teardrop trailer?

I like to fantasize about taking a cross country trip in one of these someday with my husband. Since he is 6 foot 3 inches tall, though, he is not enthusiastic about the idea. I guess I'll just have to continue dreaming!

Instead, I like to look at teardrop trailers at car shows or at RV dealers - or read about them.

If you are thinking of building your own teardrop trailer here's a great book you can buy on Amazon.