How to Find the Best Teardrop Trailer

There’s something that draws us away from life’s busy routines and into a more simple way of living. Maybe it’s a desire to have a taste of how our ancestors lived or perhaps just a need to enjoy a peaceful evening viewing the sun disappears behind a mountain range.

Whatever it is that compels us to leave the comfort of our homes, RVs can offer us the escape we search for. But in the process of choosing an RV, we can often forget what it is that we’re after—simplicity.

Bottomline Upfront

Decide what your must-haves are out of the teardrop trailer. Once you know that, find your favorite online RV sales spot and put the filters in with your must-haves. Also, make sure to remember the maximum weight your vehicle can tow when you look through the trailers. As long as you look at a big marketplace like RV share, you’ll be able to find many different models from new to old, so you can check everything out before you take your pick.

It’s easy to be tempted by RVs with the latest gadgets and features, not taking into account that a TV on each wall and voice-activated window shades may take away from the experience of camping. Teardrop campers are a perfect solution for our desire for simplicity.

While most RVs are about addition, teardrop trailers worth buying offer us something by taking away what isn’t necessary. They leave us with just enough comfort to get a good night’s sleep and enjoy a hot meal. There’s no need for spacious slideouts and big-screen TVs because the point isn’t to watch a movie on the sofa in the evening but rather to sit on a log and enjoy a cup of cocoa while on the search for Orion’s Belt.

This article will show you how to find the best teardrop trailers. Unlike many RV guides, the features that we will highlight are only the ones that will enhance the outdoor experience with simplicity in mind.

Teardrop Trailer

What are teardrop campers?

A teardrop trailer is a light-weight, and compact travel trailer shaped similar to a teardrop—hence the name. Teardrop RVs were quite popular in the 1930s. But, after the 1960s, campers largely forgot about them as bigger and more luxurious options dominated the market.

Yet, their minimalistic designs and reasonable teardrop camper models starting range seems to have inched teardrop trailers back into the mainstream market in recent years.

What should I look for in a teardrop trailer?

Finding the right teardrop trailer largely depends on how long you plan to camp, where you want to go, how many people are coming along for the ride, and how comfortable you’d like to be. Some camping trailers offer little more than a dry place to go back to after a day of exploring. Other trailers give you a place to take a shower, cook an elaborate meal, and enjoy a book by the furnace.

There are seven things you should consider first before looking for a teardrop camper.

Bathroom

When duty calls, you have three options: a tree, a campground bathroom, or bring your own. It’s important to know that not all teardrop campers come equipped with a bathroom. In fact, some don’t have running water at all.

This may not be a big issue for those camping in a campground that has toilets and showers. However, if you plan on boondocking, you may want to consider bringing a tiny trailer with a bathroom.

Teardrop Trailer Bathroom

Most teardrop trailers with bathrooms have what is called a wet bath. A wet bath is kind of a toilet, sink, and shower combination. You either have to remove the toilet paper and other items or cover them so that they don’t get soaked. However, there is one teardrop trailer that has a standard RV bathroom—which we’ll talk about later on.

Holding Tanks

RV holding tanks hold your fresh and dirty water. This is so that you can do things like shower, wash dishes, and use the restroom without being hooked up to a water and sewer line.

Not all teardrop campers have holding tanks. This is also important for boondockers to consider since you won’t have access to a water hose in the middle of nowhere.

The length of your trip and the number of people that come along will make a big difference in how much water you need. Check the holding tank sizes before you settle to own a teardrop camper. Some manufacturers may even increase the size of the tank for an additional fee.

Kitchen

Many teardrop trailers have an outdoor kitchen to help maximize the small space inside. However, not all of them have a kitchen at all. That means you’ll have to either pack ready-to-eat foods or bring along cooking supplies.

Other teardrop trailers come with a full kitchen—ready to cook elaborate dishes wherever you go. Though less common, some floorplans include an indoor kitchen. Keep in mind that an outdoor kitchen may not be ideal if you plan on camping somewhere where it storms often.

Air conditioner/heater

Air conditioners and heaters may be necessary for our homes; however, they may not be necessary for an overnight camping trip. Many teardrop campers have optional add-on air conditioners and furnaces.

If you plan to go on a week-long camping trip in the middle of the desert or on a snowy mountain, you’ll want to be set up with an air conditioner or furnace. Keep in mind that if you’re not hooked up to a power source, you’ll need either a generator or solar panels (or both).

Teardrop Trailer Off Road

Off-road package

Going off the beaten path is a lot of fun—as long as you come prepared. Some teardrop campers are built to stay on a smooth road; others can climb over large rocks and through thick mud without a problem.

If you plan on off-roading, you’ll need a teardrop camper equipped with an off-road package. This means that it will have the tires, clearance, and overall sturdiness to handle rough terrain.

Trailer weight

One of the best parts about having to own teardrop trailer is that you don’t need a heavy-duty vehicle to tow it. Many teardrop campers weigh so little that an average car with a towbar can pull it without a problem.

You should first consider how much your vehicle can tow before you choose a trailer. Although some teardrop trailers can weigh under 1,000 pounds, others can weigh up to 4,000 pounds. Be sure to check your vehicles user manual to find out exactly how much it can pull.

Floor plans

The floor plan you choose can greatly determine how you camp. Many of teardrop trailers are set up with a basic floor plan which is made up of one queen size bed—no walking or sitting space. Others are set up much like a traditional camper with a kitchen and dining area, but highly compact.

teardrop triler basic floor plan

For singles and couples going on a short trip, a basic floor plan without an indoor seating or a kitchen is a great option. However, for couples and small families on a trip longer than a few days, a more traditional style floorplan may be the better fit. A select few teardrop floorplans come with bunk beds in addition to a queen-size bed. This is perfect for families of three and four with younger children.

Top 10 Teardrop trailers

Now that you have an idea of what to look for, here are some of the best teardrop trailers available today. They are in no particular order. However, you’ll find the pros and cons of each model, so you know exactly what their strengths and weaknesses are.

1. Timberleaf Pika Teardrop

Timberleaf Pika Teardrop

The Pika Teardrop by Timberleaf is one of the most durable and rugged teardrop trailers on the market. The Pika is equipped with the off-road package which can handle rough terrain just as good as it can glide down the interstate.

Timberleaf perfectly describes the Pika as “compact, yet spacious.” To maximize space in such a small teardrop trailer, the Pika uses stretch-netting cargo storage rather than bulky storage compartments. The skylight makes this teardrop feel roomy, so you don’t have to worry about feeling cramped and claustrophobic.

Pros

  • The design feels open and spacious
  • Can handle very rough terrain
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • No closable extra storage space compartments
  • Not ideal for family camping
  • No toilet or shower

Overview

  • Size: Small
  • Dry weight: 970 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: None
  • Terrain: Rough

2. iCamp Elite

iCamp Elite

The Elite by iCamp is a teardrop camper with a cute Asia-inspired style. The interior is splashed with light and bright colors which make it feel open and spacious. It has a dinette which you can convert into a bed for a good night’s sleep.

This teardrop has all of the necessities. Unlike many teardrop trailers, the iCamp Elite has a toilet and shower as well as a 6-gallon water heater. The 3-way refrigerator and spacious storage compartments make this camper perfect for longer outings.

Pros

  • Spacious for a teardrop trailer
  • Full kitchen
  • Has a toilet, shower, and sink.

Cons

  • Not designed for rough terrain
  • Could be too heavy for small vehicles to tow
  • Less maneuverability compared to many teardrop trailers

Overview

  • Size: Medium to large
  • Dry weight: 2,366 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-3
  • Bathroom type: Wet bath
  • Terrain: Light to medium

3. Oregon Trail’r FronTear

FronTear

The FronTear is a highly versatile teardrop trailer built by Oregon Trail’r—a small company owned by two brothers born and raised in the mountains of Southern Oregon. Those who own teardrop camper describe the look of these hand-crafted teardrop trailers as “a mix of classic teardrop styling with elegant modern flair.”

Each trailer is slightly different since each is customized to fit the exact needs of the purchaser. This is why their customers are willing to wait in their 6-7 months build-queue. If you want a teardrop that is handcrafted to your exact needs, the FronTear is for you.

Pros

  • Lightweight—most vehicles can tow it
  • Ability to fully customize the interior
  • Outdoor kitchen with sink

Cons

  • Long build queue
  • Very small—not ideal for families
  • No toilet or shower

Overview

  • Size: Small
  • Dry weight: 1,100-1,400 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: None
  • Terrain: Light to medium

4. T@B 320 S Boondock by Nü Camp

T@B 320 S Boondock by Nü Camp

Nü Camp is another family-owned company that cares a more about quality craftsmanship than adding unneeded features. The T@B 320 S Boondock is a rugged teardrop trailer with added clearance for better off-road capabilities.

This teardrop is equipped with an air conditioning unit, several storage cubbies, and a 12-volt refrigerator. It also has a toilet and shower which makes this an excellent option for longer off-the-grid camping trips.

Pros

  • Equipped with a wet bath
  • Comes with a refrigerator
  • Can handle nearly any terrain

Cons

  • Heavier than many teardrop campers
  • Limited fresh water tank capacity

Overview

  • Size: Medium
  • Dry weight: 1,826 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: Wet bath
  • Terrain: Medium to rough

5. Aero Teardrops – The Steel

Aero Teardrops - The Steel

The Steel is another classic style teardrop trailer by a small Oregon-based company called Aero Teardrops. Their goal is to create “a well-equipped modern camper you’ll love without having to weed through lists of options and price adders.” They don’t plan to nickel and dime you.

The High Clearance Package will allow you to take on rougher terrain. Underfloor storage compartments come standard on The Steel which gives you more space throughout the camper.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Good for off-roading
  • What you see is what you get

Cons

  • No bathroom
  • No AC or heating
  • No sink or holding tank

Overview

  • Size: Small to medium
  • Dry weight: 1,500 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: None
  • Terrain: Medium to rough

6. Hütte Hut

Hütte Hut

The Hütte Hut is by far one of the most interesting teardrop trailers available. It uses a unique all-wood and screwless design that takes advantage of a 100% plant-based epoxy. Every inch of the Hütte Hut is meticulously designed and crafted by hand.

It also happens to be one of the lightest teardrop campers available—weighing in at only 900 lbs. This teardrop is as minimal as minimal gets. The layout is simply an open hard-wood space with a small shelf. Rather than a solid roof, the Hütte Hut uses a naturally water-repellent canvas canopy made of cotton which can be removed for an open view of the night sky.

Pros

  • Beautiful lightweight wood structure design
  • Plenty of open space
  • Compact footprint

Cons

  • No bathroom
  • No bed or seating areas
  • Pricey

Overview

  • Size: Small
  • Dry weight: 900 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: None
  • Terrain: Light

7. Little Guy Max

Little Guy Max Little Guy Trailers

The Little Guy Max by Little Guy Trailers is ironically one of the largest teardrop trailers we are going to look at today. Not only does it have enough room to sleep three people comfortably, but it also has a spacious wet bath.

This may be one of the world’s most comfortable teardrop trailers. It comes equipped with plenty of storage compartments, an air-conditioner, a furnace, and energy-efficient LED lighting.

Pros

  • Enough interior height for adults to stand
  • Comes equipped with a bathroom
  • Family friendly

Cons

  • Too heavy for some small vehicles
  • Not optimal for off-roading in rough terrain
  • Less maneuverable than most teardrop campers

Overview

  • Size: Large
  • Dry weight: 3,140 lbs
  • Sleeps: 2-3
  • Bathroom type: Wet bath
  • Terrain: Light to medium

Little Guy Mini MAX teardrop trailer | RVT.com

There is sleeping space for two, and you will enjoy plenty of conveniences, such as a wet bath with a three-function sprayer and a marine-style toilet. Enjoy your meals at the U-shaped dinette that can convert into one queen-size bed or two twin-size beds.

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8. Winnebago Minnie Drop

Minnie Drop

The Minnie Drop by Winnebago is by far the largest of all the teardrop travel trailers in this guide. Unlike many teardrop trailers, the Minnie Drop has enough room for a (small) family to sleep.

If you want to camp without sacrificing any comfort, this Winnebago is for you. It is set up with a water heater, air conditioner, heater, and a fully-equipped kitchen. While many teardrop trailers either have a wet bath or no bathroom at all, the Minnie Drop has a full bathroom.

Pros

  • Plenty of space for a small family—up to 4 people
  • Spacious bathroom
  • Full kitchen

Cons

  • Requires a more powerful tow vehicle
  • Not ideal for off-roading
  • Less maneuverability than other teardrop trailers

Overview

  • Size: X-large
  • Dry weight: 2,760-4,080 lbs
  • Sleeps: 2-4
  • Bathroom type: Full
  • Terrain: Light

Winnebago Minnie Drop | RVT.com

Features a front u-shaped dinette for seating, dining, and even added sleeping space with the table folded down. There is also a wet bath with shower and toilet along the curb side just around the corner from the door.

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9. Escapod — The Topo Series

Escapod — The Topo Series

The Topo Series by Escapod is a teardrop trailer built for the adventurous. It is heavy-duty and fully equipped for off-roading in even the roughest terrain. The galley is designed with enough counter space to prepare a nice meal after a long day of exploring.

One of the coolest add-ons for the Topo Series is the rooftop tent. This can add extra sleeping space and privacy. There’s also plenty of room for your camping equipment in the four spacious cabinets, two small cubbies, and one large storage compartment that it comes equipped with.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty design
  • Perfect for off-roading
  • Sleep additional people optional tent add-on

Cons

  • No toilet or shower
  • No kitchen basics like a stove, fridge, or sink
  • Not equipped with AC or heating

Overview

  • Size: Small
  • Dry weight: 1,500 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: None
  • Terrain: Rough

10. VRV Flyer

VRV Flyer

The Flyer by VRV is incredibly light for its size—it can be towed by almost any vehicle. It is also very minimal. There’s no galley, sink, or unnecessary electronics. It gives you a comfortable place to sleep without the clutter of extras. Even the air conditioner is optional.

This simple design can be expanded with an optional add-a-room tent which attaches to the back door. The slide-out counter gives you a nice place to prepare a hot meal or make some coffee.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Minimalistic design
  • Optional tent expansion

Cons

  • No galley or kitchen area
  • No bathroom or sink

Overview

  • Size: Medium
  • Dry weight: 1,240 lbs
  • Sleeps: 1-2
  • Bathroom type: None
  • Terrain: Medium to Rough

Choosing a teardrop trailer manufacturer

When you decide on the perfect style of teardrop trailer, the next step is figuring out how to purchase it. This is an exciting time. But don’t get ahead of yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Price ranges

Teardrop trailer prices can range from under $10k to over $60k depending on the brand, style, and year. Your budget can significantly affect how you purchase a teardrop camper and what brand you choose. You can expect to pay a bit more for a brand new trailer than a used one.

However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t find a great fitting teardrop on a budget. Many older used models that have plenty of life in them are available for a bargain. In fact, some manufacturers buy back older models and resell them at a great price.

If you prefer to work with the manufacturer to customize your teardrop trailer to fit your exact needs, you may need a larger budget. Although customizations can add up quickly, the memories made in the perfect camper could be priceless.

Manufacturer location

While there are teardrop trailer manufacturers all over the U.S., some of the best small companies are located on the west coast. Many of these companies prefer to do business directly with the customer rather than with RV dealerships. This is one of the best and worst things about teardrop camper manufacturers.

On the one hand, you know you’re not getting a mass-produced trailer. Instead, you’re dealing directly with a small company that wants to hand-craft your trailer to meet your specific needs. On the other hand, if you are on the opposite side of the country, you will either have to drive to pick it up or pay an extra hefty fee to have it shipped to your home.

You should also consider unexpected catastrophes. It is not uncommon that accidents happen—a storm comes through, and your camper is damaged by a fallen limb, or a deep pothole damages an axle.

In some instances, you may have to go back to the manufacturer for repairs. If the manufacturer is on the other side of the country, it could be challenging to get your damaged trailer to them.

This is where choosing a large RV manufacturer may make life easier. Companies like Winnebago have technicians all over the country as well as many models already built and ready to purchase at an RV dealership.

Build Queues

Another thing to consider is that there may be long build queues for customized trailers. Again, this is both a pro and a con; you know you’re going to get a quality hand-crafted trailer, but you may have to be patient for six months to plan your camping trip while it is being manufactured.

Towing your teardrop trailer

Teardrop Trailer Towing

Before you purchase your teardrop trailer, you must have a vehicle capable of pulling the camper. This means your vehicle must have a trailer hitch installed along with a wiring system for the tail lights, turn signals, and brake lights—this is required by law for all trailers.

If your vehicle doesn’t already have the equipment it needs to tow a teardrop trailer, you can take it to the dealership or manufacturer to ready your vehicle for towing.

If you’re not sure what type of ball and hitch is correct for the teardrop trailer, it’s best to ask the trailer manufacturer for the specifications. Depending on the design and size of the trailer, you may need special equipment.

Teardrop trailer maintenance

Although a teardrop trailer doesn’t have an engine, there are still vital components that you must maintain. Most importantly, keep the tires at the right pressure to prevent blowouts, and to keep track of the mileage and condition, so you know when to replace them. Neglected tires can cause serious damage your you, your vehicle, and your trailer.

Your teardrop trailer should include a maintenance schedule. If you can’t find it, ask the manufacturer for an extra copy. This will tell you which parts of your trailer should be inspected and maintained and how often. The schedule will require you to check things like your batteries, wheels, lights, roof, window seals, and AC unit. Keep in mind that the more features your teardrop trailer has, the more maintenance it will require.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can sleep in a Teardrop camper?

The sleeping area of a teardrop travel trailer is usually for two passengers. There are some Teardrop trailer design made with a cabin for five people but they are usually heavier.

How heavy is a teardrop trailer?

Teardrops are well known as the best small camper trailer option on the market, highly coveted by any road camper. They vary a lot in sizes and weight but they are usually between 400 and 3,500 pounds.

What car can pull a teardrop trailer?

Looking for a car capable of pulling a teardrop trailer depends on the weight of the cabin. A lightweight camper up to 1,000 pounds can be perfectly pulled by a Honda Accord for example. And for a heavier travel trailer up to 5,000 pounds you might need a stronger car such as a Kia Sorento.

Top 10 Choices – Full Comparison

RVSizeDry WeightSleepsBathroom TypeTerrain
Timberleaf Pika TeardropSmall970 lbs1-2NoneRough
iCamp EliteMedium to Large2,366 lbs1-3Wet BathLight to Medium
Oregon Trail'r FronTearSmall1,100-1,400 lbs1-2NoneLight to Medium
T@B 320 S Boondock by Nü CampMedium1,826 lbs1-2Wet BathMedium to Rough
Aero Teardrops - The SteelSmall to Medium1,500 lbs1-2NoneMedium to Rough
Hütte HutSmall900 lbs1-2NoneLight
Little Guy MaxLarge2,1402-3Wet BathLight to Medium
Minnie DropX-large2,760-4,080 lbs2-4FullLight
Escapod - The Top SeriesSmall1,500 lbs1-2NoneRough
VRV FlyerMedium1,2400 lbs1-2NoneMedium to Rough

See More Comparisons and Reviews here:

Why choose a teardrop trailer

With all of the spacious RVs available today, why choose a teardrop trailer anyways? If indoor space is what you’re after, teardrop campers may not be the very best fit after all. On the other hand, if you want to have no other option but to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, then a teardrop may be a perfect choice.

The best teardrop trailers can help us notice the subtle beauties—a morning conversation, a warm afternoon walk, or a peaceful sunset—that we may otherwise miss is we are consumed by our luxuries indoors.

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