The Mobile Dream
There’s an allure to the open road. In America, it symbolizes that path to new opportunities and adventures. Many camper trailers emerged into the American mainstream lifestyle starting in the 1930s and grew in popularity over the following decades. While living on the road usually means long days away from home, more people are choosing to trade in for a mobile one either permanently or for extensive travel. The tastes in trailers are at both ends of the mobile spectrum. Some go big with luxury and others downsize to just the basics. Either way, staying in a camper is a way to live frugally with no mortgage and save money. And you are always home wherever you go.
Refinished Bell Campers
We are in an age of getting what we want without spending a fortune. So it’s no surprise there is a do-it-yourself (DIY) trend to refurbish vintage trailers. The Bell Travel Trailers, popular in the 60s and 70s, are getting a second chance at the road. These tiny trailers are best for the lone traveler or two. Because they are vintage trailers, they aren’t readily available and will take some hunting, but that’s part of the fun, isn’t it? Keep in mind that these trailers are likely in need of repair. Before purchasing, check the siding, frame and electrical wires before even thinking about the aesthetic changes you want to make. Give it your best inspection for mold and leaks before moving ahead. The refurbishing project will leave you gratified and your adventures waiting for you.
New RV Campers
RVs basically encompass any mobile living unit and include motorhomes, travel trailers and camper vans. Class A motorhomes are the kings of the road. These are the ones that resemble tour buses. Class B motorhomes are campervans and are actually the smallest of the classes. Class Cs look like a van with a longer camper fitted on top. As the economy slowly strengthens, so do the sales of these recreational vehicles (RV). Instead of purchasing a vacation home, more people are opting for a second home on wheels. RVs range from being simply a space to sleep to luxurious motorhomes with all the amenities of a regular house. And for some, buying a RV is the way they’ll transition to retirement or financial independence.
Airstream Campers
New or vintage, these trailers look like silver spaceships on the road. Regardless of their sizes, they’re not known for having much storage, but they have a reputation for being lightweight and durable. If you are looking to rehab a vintage trailer, be mindful of the era and whether parts are available. Also, note if there is still a pipe frame and if it needs modification, and make sure there is a holding tank for waste water. Although they are lightweight, make sure your vehicle can tow it. New ones keep getting lighter and appear more akin to the airships that initially inspired their design.
Teardrop Campers
These are the smallest trailers and may just be a place to lay your head down at night. These trailers are typically between 4 feet wide and 6 feet long and go up to 10 feet long. They’re lighter and easier to tow and park without needing a larger vehicle for it. There’s been a resurgence of these models lately, and there are seeing sleek designs gracing the road with aluminum or wooden sheathing. Some DIYers are even making their own from plans or a kit. For the babies of the camper family, many teardrop enthusiasts feel they can do more without spending a fortune. And, you’ll also become a de facto member of the teardrop trailer community, so look out for trailer gatherings around the nation, even the globe.
