Teardrop trailers are going to be the most inexpensive option in the land of recreational vehicles and travel trailers.
Now compared to tent camping, a teardrop trailer purchase may seem pretty pricey. When you start to take in the pros and cons of tent camping and compare that with all of the benefits that a teardrop camper can provide you, the cost becomes worth it in the long run.
A quick analysis of your current camping methods can give you a big picture look of how much money you are actually saving (or not saving). How often are you ripping holes in your tent and having to replace the entire thing because it leaks?
$$$ It’s The Little Things! $$$
Do you have to bring along extra blankets or heat sources in your tent? Are you losing items because you don’t have proper places to put them? What is your level of enjoyment in a tent versus being fully enclosed and protected by a locked door at night? Will your sleep improve?
You might be asking yourself are teardrop trailers worth it?
That being said, a teardrop trailer is no small purchase. Why do manufacturer prices seem so high to the average buyer? The following factors are taken into consideration when manufacturers determine how to price their beloved models:
- Age of Teardrop – How old is the model that you are purchasing? If it is a brand-new unit, then there hasn’t been time for depreciation. An older model will be less expensive and may not have all of the upgrades you are looking for. At that point, you will have to decide if spending more to add those into the older unit is worth time and effort versus buying a new one.
- Size of Teardrop – The size of your teardrop model will be a big determinate of your invoices bottom line. Should you choose to stay modest and get basic units, then your teardrop will cost you a fraction of the price that a larger, more rugged model (with bells and whistles) would be. The fact of the matter is the bigger, the more expensive.
- The Nostalgia Factor – Teardrop trailers, no matter how modern they are, are a reminder of times that have come before. Introduced in the 1930s, they are a nostalgic piece of history that have resurfaced in the last decade as a renewed popular pastime. You can’t put a price on memories!
- Customization – The add-ons and extras that you choose for your customized teardrop will add to the cost because they aren’t basic amenities. There is a cost for the designer to add these on and that cost will transfer to you, unless already agreed upon in the final price. You want what you want, but it will cost you. Rightly so!
- Location – Dependent on where you purchase your teardrop, the state may require higher sales tax. The area may just be primarily higher or lower pricing, as is the way with many other product purchases. Research and travel may be required on your end to find the teardrop that suits your budget. It’s worth it in the end.
- Materials Used – Specific materials may be harder to come by for the designer/producer. If the manufacturer uses higher quality materials, then the cost of the unit is going to indicate that standard of excellence.
- Markup Value – If you are purchasing from a dealership, you may not know that they mark up the units that they purchase from various manufacturers. They purchase for a set price and then add fees and a markup value to ensure that they make money off of the sale of every model. Older models that have been on their lot and haven’t sold will eventually get marked down, but they are in the business to make money as the middleman between manufacturer and teardrop trailer buyer.
- Supply and Demand – If there is a high demand for specific teardrop models, and a low supply then chances are that the units will be sold at a higher price. Once certain models are no longer popular, the price may decrease. If there is demand for a product, then producers are likely to get the most they can for each unit.
- New or Used – New models will always be more expensive than used or older models. Just like vehicles, used teardrops may hold their durability and style without the extra price. Used teardrop campers can be purchased at a very reasonable amount. You have to be willing to take it as is and customize as you see fit.
It’s really more than about money, and we all know that when it comes to large purchases. So, what can we take into consideration, so we don’t experience complete sticker shock and buyer’s remorse? Once you decide to make a large purchase, take the following into your calculations along with the financial aspects:
- Is the product worth it to me?
- Will it provide everything that I want it to?
- How often will I use this model?
- Do I need to make any modifications and how much will they cost me?
- Can I tow it with my current vehicle?
- How many memories will I make? (Undoubtedly…countless memories)
- Will it fit me and all my things or do I need a different size?
- How much will teardrop insurance be on this unit?
- How long will I keep this trailer?
All in all, teardrop trailers are only as expensive as our tastes. Should we require more modifications, then obviously the unit will seem expensive. In the end, we always want our products to suit us best. However, maybe our luxury wants should be pared down to necessities that match our budget. You get what you pay for!
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