A great many factors go into a teardrop trailer purchase.
You don’t just want to pounce on the first one that you see. It’s much like choosing a house or a new vehicle. You make your list of must haves and deal breakers, and then you have your small stack of conveniences that aren’t as much of a necessity.
Not to scare you away! This will definitely be one of the most fun purchases that you will ever consider. Unless you plan on upgrading in the near future and spending money to trade in your teardrop on an annual basis, we recommend that you take your time.
The more you love your teardrop purchase, the less likely you are to give it up and move on to bigger and better things. Understanding why teardrop trailers are expensive explained here!
Manufacturer and Materials
Do you like the style? More importantly, do you like the design?
Is it a one-unit teardrop style, crafted to decrease the potential leaks that most other trailers and campers experience? Or is it formed with multiple panels, and you can just see replacement parts and remodeling in your future?
The quality of craftsmanship matters when it comes to teardrops, assuming you are planning on traveling year-round, in all types of weather.
You want to check for the following features:
- Look for material that won’t dry rot. Aluminum is a great start. Some manufacturers use various other materials, including wood- which is great. Just make sure it is laminated or sealed in some way to protect against the elements.
- Does the manufacturer stand behind their product with a warranty?
- Are the specifications from the manufacturer, what you are actually getting?
- Does the tow package attach to your current vehicle? Check out the weight and make sure the combination is accurate. Some larger teardrops can only be hauled by an SUV or larger tow vehicle. Most smaller teardrops can be towed by sedans.
Make and Model
Not all teardrops are created equal.
There are retro or traditional teardrop campers that have a distinct look or more modern and futuristic models to choose from. There are extremely basic units for minimalists, or units with full blown luxuries of the finest hotels. With so much variety, you want to take a look at them all to make sure that you have a sense of your lifestyle fit.
Do you like the exterior wood paneling or do you want decal stickers to express your personality? What about standard features? Do you need the extra bunk space for kiddos, or the interior dinette set, just for those extra rainy traveling days?
Various models have different standard amenities to provide the ultimate comfort. Do you need that larger model for additional family members or traveling pets? All things to put on your list. The choice is yours alone but consider the various teardrop manufacturers in your area.
Each one has their own unique twist on an old classic.
Ways to Customize Your Teardrop
We have yet to run into a manufacturer that didn’t allow for some way to add on or include various items that aren’t typically standard in their units. A way to make the teardrop your very own. Everything from tabletop extensions on the side of your teardrop to a fridge in your galley.
Needing some entertainment when you have settled in for the night, TV/DVD combos in the cabin. Customize your camper in ways you never thought possible with exterior paint color, roof rack for extra cargo space, side awning, portable toilet and shower facilities, and the list truly goes on.
We have seen manufacturers offer the best of the best as upgrades for their every growing clientele. Teardrop trailers are a movement!
Designers That Will Listen to You
When it comes down to it, look for a manufacturer that will listen to you and your story. That will take the time to get to know you and what you are truly looking for. Don’t let yourself be talked into an add-on that you could live without or a model that just doesn’t quite fit your style.
Be happy with what you are choosing and choose well!
The best part is, if something doesn’t fit your budget now, then it might fit down the road! You can do add-ons at any time in your teardrop journey. The key is to make the bones as sound as you can. Choose the items that you absolutely can’t live without and then enjoy!
We will see you on the road! Happy traveling, friends!