Complete Teardrop Camper Maintenance Checklist

With camping season fast approaching, it’s time to pull your Vistabule teardrop camper out of storage. You’ll want to make sure your camper is up to par before embarking on your next adventure - use this checklist to help guide your prep!

Table of Contents

• How Often Should I Do Maintenance on My Teardrop Camper?

• Cleaning Your Camper

• What Do I Need to Check for Maintenance on My Teardrop Camper?

• Battery & Lighting Checks

• Exterior Checks

• Internal Checks

How Often Should I Do Maintenance on My Teardrop Camper?

How often your camper needs maintenance will depend heavily on where you live and where you travel with your camper! If you are taking smaller trips in moderate climates, your camper may not need as much maintenance as one that is taken on weeks long excursions in trying climates. 

A general rule of thumb is to check in on your camper at least once every six months, if not every three or four. When not in use, it is ideal to store your camper indoors, however, we know that is not always possible. If that is the case, you will want to invest in a weatherproof cover to help protect your camper from the elements. 

Cleaning Your Camper

Even if your teardrop camper has been in storage and protected from the elements for several months, it probably needs a little TLC before hitting the road. Take time to carefully clean both the interior and exterior of your camper. While cleaning, be sure to note any concerns or damage that you will need to address before you head out. For the aluminum side skins that help give the Vistabule that classic look, the manufacturer recommends the following:

It is certainly tough to keep things clean so periodic washing of the pre-painted metal may be desirable. Pre-paint is formulated to resist most mild cleaners and fresh water. The simplest solution of detergent in fresh warm water is best. Detergents like Tide® with less than 0.5% phosphate can be mixed at about one cup per five gallons of water. Using a sponge, soft cloth, or soft bristle brush clean an area then rinse immediately with fresh water, repeat as necessary. Take care not to scratch the painted surface.

What Do I Need to Check for Maintenance on My Teardrop Camper?

While your Vistabule as a whole is the star of the show, there are many working parts involved - sometimes more than others depending on the features you’ve selected.  It is important to take the time to check in on each of these parts before embarking on a new adventure to ensure that you and your camper have the best, least stressful time possible!

Battery Checks

Whether or not your teardrop camper has been in storage or in your driveway, the best way to store your Vistabule’s battery is by bringing it inside after fully charging it. Cold weather is not kind to batteries. Keep it nice and cozy in the safety of your home to save you from having to struggle with it down the line. Vistabule recommends the following considerations when it comes to storing your battery:

If you have access to store your Vistabule inside, you may leave your trailer plugged into shore power. This will not over charge your battery. If your trailer does not have access to shore power, we recommend disconnecting your battery and storing it inside, connected to a trickle charger. There will be a slow and small charge flowing to your battery keeping it at a full charge.

Exterior Camper Maintenance Checklist

Outer Windows and Portholes

Check your windows and portholes for any cracks and damage in the sealing that could result in a lack of protection from the elements. Open and close windows and shades to be sure they are intact.

Awnings

Even if your awnings were rolled up prior to storing your camper, it is important to check them for damage or gunk. Fully open and set up your awnings to check for any signs of damage including tears or mildew. If possible, leave your awning open to allow it to air out. 

Hitch

Carefully inspect the hitch on your teardrop camper as well as the vehicle you are using to tow. Check for any signs of damage, including warping, cracks, and corrosion. If you notice any signs of damage it is important to get them corrected prior to attaching the hitch to anything. Doing so could cause further damage and potential harm. 

The hitch ball (or trailer ball) is a vital contact point between the trailer coupler and your tow vehicle’s hitch. Keeping the hitch ball lightly lubricated will cut down significantly on the wear caused by friction and make the ball last much longer. Some owners cover the hitch ball with a split tennis ball when it's not in use. This also keeps hands and clothing from getting grease stains.

Tires, Wheels, and Brakes

Check your tire levels on both your camper and your tow vehicle regularly. Tires on a camper are as important as they are on the vehicle you drive every day. Keep record of when you replace your tires so you have an estimate of how frequently you need to change the tires. This will not be the same for everyone as it will depend on how often and far you take your camper. Even if you had your tires changed recently, be sure to check your tire pressure and tread before departing on any trip, as the weather can directly impact tire pressure. 

You will also want to periodically torque your wheel lug nuts. Torquing your wheel lug nuts is very important for maintaining secure tires. This should be done every few months depending on the use of your trailer. You will need a torque wrench and 3/4" socket. The torque pressure should be 100ft/lbs. Asking a service attendant at your nearest auto shop is also a simple option.

Lubricating your wheel bearings is another important thing to keep in mind to maintain the health and smooth function of your trailer. The frequency of lubrication may depend on several factors, including the type of trailer, the frequency of use, and the operating conditions. In addition to regular maintenance, it is also recommended to inspect the wheel bearings for signs of wear and damage before and after every trip. This can help detect any issues early on and prevent more significant problems down the road. It is always a good idea to consult the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for specific recommendations on maintenance and lubrication for your particular trailer and wheel bearings.

Testing the brakes on your Vistabule is an essential part of ensuring safe and secure travels. To do this, start by connecting your trailer to your tow vehicle and activating the trailer brakes. With the engine running and the brake pedal pressed, move forward slowly to feel the brakes engaging. If the trailer is not stopping as it should or is pulling to one side, there may be an issue with the brakes that requires attention from a qualified technician. It's also a good idea to test your trailer brakes regularly, especially before embarking on a long trip, to identify and address any potential problems before hitting the road. Properly maintained brakes are critical to your safety and that of other drivers on the road, so don't skip this important step.

Exterior Lights

While inspecting the exterior of your teardrop camper, don’t forget to turn the exterior lights on and off. While we love camping under the stars, they do not provide enough light for you to set up camp. 

This is also a great time to check the brake lights. If you do not have a buddy to help you check, an easy tip for checking the lights yourself is to back up close to a wall, garage, etc. and look for the reflection of the brake lights in your rearview mirror. 

Galley

The galley is going to be a critical space on your trip - treat it that way! Check the galley to ensure the lights and outlets are working. Take time to go through the cabinets and clean them of any leftover items or dust/dirt.

If your trailer has one, be sure to test your 2-Burner stove. To do this, begin by ensuring that the propane tank is securely connected and turned on. Then, light each burner and adjust the flame to the desired temperature. Once the stove is up and running, inspect the flame to make sure it is blue and steady. If the flame is yellow or flickering, it may indicate a problem with the stove that requires further attention. Also, check to make sure that the burners are heating evenly and that there are no leaks or unusual sounds. Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and exercise caution when working with propane.

You will also want to test your fresh water and plumbing system (if you have one) to ensure that everything is in working order. First, turn on the water pump. Then, check all of the faucets and valves to make sure they are not leaking and are operating properly. Fill the sink with water and check for any leaks or drainage issues. Make sure that the grey water tank (if you have one) is empty and properly secured. If you notice any issues, address them before hitting the road to avoid any potential problems during your trip.

Interior Camper Maintenance Checklist

Interior Electrical

While going through the interior, be sure to check that your fans, ventilation, and outlets all work. 

Take time to walk through all and turn on all of your interior lighting. The last thing you want is to be setting up and realize that you are going to have to spend the entire evening in the dark because the lights won’t turn on! 

Cabinets and Storage

Taking time to open all cabinets and storage spots can save you headaches whenever you are ready to embark. You will want to check that there are no signs of any critters making a home in your camper. Additionally, be sure to test all doors and spaces to make sure everything is still in working order.

Adventure is in the Shape of a Teardrop with Vistabule

Whether you plan to travel full time or sporadically, you will need to conduct maintenance on your camper to keep it in tip top shape. With this guide, you won’t forget anything! If you’re dabbling in the thought of getting a camper, maybe this will convince you it’s not as overwhelming as it may have seemed. If you are ready to take the leap into adventure, check out Vistabule to design and build a custom teardrop trailer. For all of our options check out our pricing guide or contact us to come check them out for yourself. 

Teardrop Camping With Dogs

For many, our four-legged friends aren’t just mere accessories in a household, but full-fledged members of the family. It stands to reason then that you wouldn’t leave a member of the family behind when you hit the road for your next adventure. So why not bring them along?

Teardrop camping with dogs may seem intimidating, but in this guide we cover everything you need to know to have a successful trip with your furry friend. Let's dive in!

Be Sure Your Dog is Up for the Trip

While the idea of adventuring alongside your favorite companion may sound like a blast for you, it's important to first consider your dog's needs and boundaries.

Dog Temperament

There are always safe ways to bring reactive pets along for an adventure but sometimes it is best to avoid high stress environments that will make your pet more uneasy.

With this being said, if you have a dog that behaves well off leash be conscious that not every dog is comfortable with their space being invaded. Always leash your dog if you see other pets around until they have been properly introduced and you can discuss the comforts with the other pet owner.

Get Your Dog Comfortable With Your Teardrop Camper

Teardrops are small and compact which could make your dog feel a little uncomfortable. Make sure you give them plenty of time to sniff around and adjust to the new and confined space.

Take Your Dog on A Practice Trip

Once you feel your pet is ready, take them on a shorter practice trip! This is the best way for you to see how they do in a vehicle and to test their reactions to the lapse in routine and daily comforts.

This is also a good time to practice your daily commands in new and distracting environments to be sure that your pet behaves as well on the road as they do at home. And it’s safe to assume that they will bring their bad behavior along with them if they’re a bit of a trouble-maker on their own turf.

Research Dog Friendly Locations

Before you hit the open road make sure you double check that the campsites you've picked out are dog friendly! Having a good place for your dog to get their energy out and maybe even interact with other dogs will make the trip more enjoyable for both of you. Check out these 10 Best Dog Friendly Campsites in the U.S.

Keep Your Dog Safe

As fellow dog lovers we know that keeping your dog safe is your top priority.

Leashes and Harnesses

Before you can start camping you need to get to where you're going and when you have a pet along that means extra stops to stretch their legs and use the bathroom. Having a leash and harness that is comfortable while also secure is the key to a great adventure.

Keeping your pet safe in the vehicle is also important. Talk to your vet about the safest ways to travel based on your pets needs and check out this article for some helpful tips.

Campsite Tie Outs

Even dog friendly campgrounds have pretty strict leashing rules. While we understand the benefit of letting your dog wander and enjoy nature as much as you are these tie outs will ensure you are following the rules while keeping your dog close by.

Pet Tracking

Be sure that your pet is wearing a dog tag that clearly states your name and contact information just in case they get lost. You could even add some extra security by attaching an Apple AirTag to their collar or this interactive tag from LifeKey.

Help Your Dog Regulate Their Temperature

Keeping your pet a comfortable temperature can be tricky on the road. Make it easier by adding an AC unit and furnace to your teardrop trailer to ensure your pet is the perfect temperature all year round.

Related Reading: Climate Control: Teardrop Camper AC, Furnaces and Ventilation

Plan Ahead for Where Your Pet Will Sleep

Teardrop campers are compact. Be sure you have a plan on where your pet can lay their head after a day full of adventures and practice with the ahead of time so they can get comfortable quickly.

Be Sure Your Dog Has Everything They Need

We know that adding more stuff to your packing list means finding a place for it in your teardrop. Check out these storage solutions to ensure you don't need to skimp on supplies for your pet.

Food

Bringing your dogs food along is a no brainer but it might also be a good idea to bring some extra servings just in case of mishaps. Keep your dog's food fresh and conveniently stored with this gear tote.

Water

Even if you think you will have access to water at your campsite it is always a good idea to plan ahead and bring some extra bottled water along.

Do you plan to spend time adventuring away from your campsite? This water bottle for dogs will ensure your pet stays hydrated all day long.

Mess Bags

Cleaning up after your pet should be a top priority. Make sure you bring along plenty of poop bags like these biodegradable ones and have a plan of how to dispose of the mess when you're not near garbages.

Medications and Vet Information

Plan ahead to make sure you have all the medications your pet might need during the trip and save any local emergency vet numbers in your phone just in case.

If you're going to be spending time hiking in the woods its a great idea to talk to your vet about tick repellent medications to ensure you don't bring home any unwanted hitchhiking pests.

A Piece of Home

Bringing along your pets favorite blanket or toy could make them feel more comfortable and secure in a new environment.

Take Your Pet on Your Next Adventure with Vistabule

Now that you have all the tools you need for a successful trip your favorite four legged companion be sure the check out Vistabule teardrop campers. Start building the perfect RV for the two of you to enjoy life on the road in luxury.

Stay tuned for the next article where we will cover “Teardrop Camping with Cats, And 1 Major Sign You’ve Lost Your Dang Mind”.

Can You Live in a Teardrop Trailer?

As an increasing number of jobs are becoming fully remote, it is now easier to get creative with living arrangements. The camper van trend, especially during the pandemic, got us thinking: can you live in a teardrop camper? The short answer is yes!

As long as you're willing to make some sacrifices and spend some time getting creative with your accommodations, a teardrop camper can make for an adventurous home on wheels. Check out this comprehensive guide to help you decide whether a life on the road is right for you.

Table of Contents

• What to Expect Living in a Teardrop Trailer

• Advantages of Living in a Teardrop Trailer

• Challenges of Living in a Teardrop Trailer

• Tips for Living in a Teardrop Trailer

• Picking the Right Spot for Your Teardrop

What to Expect Living in a Teardrop Trailer

When deciding whether or not to live in a teardrop camper there are many factors to consider. Here is a breakdown of what to expect inside a teardrop:

The Space

One thing to keep in mind is the size of a teardrop camper. In terms of recreational vehicles, they are one of the smaller options. While this may deter some, to others it is an advantage to be able to fit in those small rustic camp sites and have less to customize and maintain.

Check out the full specs on the Vistabule teardrop camper.

Sleeping Area

The sleeping area of the teardrop comfortably fits two people and is completely customizable to include any additional storage and lighting that you may need.

In most teardrop campers this area easily converts into a couch with a small table to enjoy a meal, work from "home", or play a game with your travel companion.

The Kitchen

In most teardrop trailers the kitchen exits in the back of the camper and is protected by a hatchback covering.

These kitchens are completely customizable with tons of add-on options to choose from. From the way you cook, to how you store your supplies, you can decide what to prioritize and what is necessary for you to be comfortable living on the road.

The Amenities

With options like the Fresh Water, a propane stove, furnace, powered cooler, and more, the Vistabule offers versatility with its many available amenities.

If you truly want to live on the road in your teardrop camper planning how you'll access amenities might be the most important aspect of the the process. Learning how to safely and legally gain access to power and water are two of the biggest challenges facing the nomad lifestyle.

Here are some tips from Vistabule to make these challenges a little easier:

Power

When it comes to powering your teardrop camper there are a few ways to do so.

The first and arguably most important method is via your trailer’s onboard battery. This powers the majority of the features and options on a trailer. Your trailer battery can be charged via your tow vehicle with the proper 7-Pin connection, using solar power (Vistabule offers both fixed rooftop panels, as well as a portable panel), or through a 120V connection to a wall outlet or designated outlet at a campground.

Plugging directly into a power source, often referred to as city or shore power, at an established campground, is the simplest and most reliable way to obtain power and charge your battery, but it isn’t always going to be the most accessible. As trailer camping grows in popularity, booking or reserving these designated hook-up sites can be a greater challenge. They also tend to cost more per night than a more rustic site.

The last option for powering a teardrop camper is by using a gas generator or portable power bank like the Jackery. Please be aware that energy heavy appliances like an AC unit will drain these devices quickly, especially a Jackery, so it is advised that you do not rely solely on these to power an AC. Also be aware of the noise pollution created by a gas generator and its potential negative impact on those trying to enjoy nature.

Related Reading: How to Power a Teardrop Trailer?

Water

Similar to powering your teardrop camper, having access to water is another element of living on the road that requires planning ahead. Planning ahead by storing water or being sure you have access to a fresh water connection is crucial.

At Vistabule, we have options for both water storage and water systems. So whether you're enjoying a rustic site or you are hooked up at a campground, your teardrop trailer is equipped with everything you need.

Advantages of Living in a Teardrop Trailer

There are many advantages to living in a teardrop camper. Some of our favorite reasons are:

• Minimalism: Living with minimal belongings can be an escape from a lifestyle prone to overconsumption.

• Portability: Life on the road makes it easy to make home where ever you want it to be.

• Sustainability: Minimal belongings can mean minimal waste.

• Community: There are so many people adapting to this type of living. Whether you find them online or at the next campsite over this lifestyle can introduce you to an entire community of like minded individuals.

• Affordability: Living minimally means spending minimally. As long as you plan ahead it is easy to make living in a teardrop camper affordable.

Challenges of Living in a Teardrop Trailer

When making this decision there are some pretty major challenges to consider. Some of these are:

• Limited Space: Getting used to minimal space and storage can be a huge adjustment but Vistabule is here to make it easier with tons of storage solutions to choose from

• Lack of Amenities: Planning ahead for things like power and water may seem like a lot when it is something that requires minimal effort now. However the adjustment might be easier than you think with solutions from Vistabule like the water storage tanks.

• Legal Limitations: The legal requirements for living on the road vary by state so it is important to research your limitations ahead of time.

Tips for Living in a Teardrop Trailer

Adjusting to life on the road? Check out these tips to make it a little more comfortable:

Bathroom Solutions

While teardrops may not have bathrooms inside the camper there are many ways around this. The obvious solution is to use a campground restroom or finding a remote area near your campsite. If you choose to do the latter it is important to leave no trace.

The camping community has come up with creative solutions to this problem. The most common solution is to have a portable toilet that lives outside your teardrop trailer. Campers have found impressive ways to make this solution more comfortable and improve privacy.

Storage Solutions

When it comes to storage in a teardrop camper the best thing to do is minimize belongings. However, to store the belongings you do need all it takes is creativity and some customization. Here are some of Vistabule's favorite storage solutions:

1. Headboard Storage

2. Trailer Tongue Box

3. Front Storage Compartment

4. Pullout Cooler Cabinet

Related Reading: Teardrop Trailer Storage Ideas

Towing Vehicle

One of the biggest advantages to living in a teardrop camper in comparison to a large RV or camper van is that your living space is disconnected from your daily driver. This makes it so you can set up a cozy living site but also take your vehicle to find new hikes or run errands.

This means that choosing your towing vehicle is one of the more important decisions you'll need to make when planning your life on the road.

Here are just a few things to consider:

• Gas Milage

• Towing Capacity

• Room for Extra Storage

Picking the Right Spot for Your Teardrop

Once you settle on how to customize your new home on wheels it is time to decide where to set up camp.

Campgrounds

Finding a campground is by far the easiest way to enjoy your teardrop. Many people who live in teardrop trailers spend as much time as they can camping in more remote and scenic areas and then spend a night or two at a larger more establish campground when it is time to fill their water tanks, charge their batteries and have a bit of a more luxurious shower.

Boon-docking

Boon-docking is what people in the camping world call free camping. If your batteries are fully charged and your water tank is full there are great options for sites that allow you to save some money while getting a rustic camping experience immersed in nature.

Related Reading: Primitive Camping

Ready to Start Your Adventure? Build a Custom Teardrop Trailer with Vistabule

With this full guide it should be easy to decide if living in a teardrop trailer is right for you? Whether you're ready to live in one full time or just looking for some added adventure in your life check out Vistabule to design and build a custom teardrop trailer. For all of our options check out our pricing guide or contact us to come check them out for yourself.

Do Teardrop Trailers Need Brakes?

Example of an electric brake

Customizing your teardrop trailer is an exciting process. However, amongst the excitement of adding your favorite additional features it's important to remember the most crucial part of teardrop safety: trailer brakes.

In this article we'll explore whether or not electric brakes are necessary for your teardrop trailer build. Learn about how you can have the safest camping trip possible while following the towing laws of your go-to roadtrip destination.

Do All Teardrop Trailers Have Brakes?

It's rare to find base level teardrop trailers equipped with electric brakes. However, that is often completely dependent on the trailer manufacturer. Companies that build heavier teardrops, or those that are based in states with stricter towing laws, usually have electric brakes built on to their base package trailers.

At Vistabule, the base trailer package does not include electric brakes, or brakes of any kind built into the the trailer. However, electric brakes as well as a brake controller can both be added to your package during the custom trailer building process.

Is it Illegal to go Without Brakes?

Whether or not it is illegal to tow a teardrop trailer without brakes depends on the area you are traveling in. Each state has towing laws that are determined by towing weight. This number varies by state. You will see that some areas are more strict than others.

While it is always safer to have brakes on your trailer it is not always illegal to go without. For best practice, be conscious of your teardrop trailer's weight and research local towing laws ahead of time.

When Do Teardrop Trailers Need Brakes?

While brakes aren't a necessity, we recommend electronic breaks on all teardrop trailers as a safety precaution, especially those being towed with smaller vehicles. By adding electronic brakes to your teardrop you can reduce emergency stopping distance by 15-18%.

Here are some things to consider when deciding if electric trailer brakes are right for your teardrop camper:

Steep Downgrades

Are you planning a trip in the mountains? Then adding electric brakes to your teardrop is a must. Keep your drive scenic and safe with a bit of added security.

When Pulling Significant Added Weight

If you plan on adding additional storage to your teardrop trailer it is a good idea to also add electric brakes. This will help with overall wear on your daily driver and also make your trips safer.

Tow Vehicle Has Old Brakes

If you're pulling your trailer with an older vehicle, especially one that has older brakes, then it is best to add some extra reinsurance to your teardrop trailer. By adding electric brakes to your trailer you can compensate for those on your vehicle while protecting it from further wear.

What to Know About Teardrop Trailer Brakes

The Autowbrake Brake Controller is installed inside Vistabule trailer’s electrical compartment.

If your trailer has electric brakes, you will need a brake controller. Many vehicles that come with a towing package will already have a brake controller installed somewhere in the dash. Always refer to the owner's manual of your tow vehicle. But it is likely that if you are having a hitch installed on your vehicle for the first time, you will also need to purchase a brake controller. What you can tow, including its weight and number of axles, is essential for determining what type of brake control you will need.

Teardrop Brake Controllers

Brake Controllers are necessary to communicate between the braking system on your tow vehicle and the electric brakes installed on your trailer. If you intend to purchase a trailer with electric brakes installed, and you do not already have a tow vehicle with a brake controller installed, Vistabule offers the installation of the Autowbrake Proportional Brake Controller.

Proportional Brake Controllers

With the Autowbrake, you can get emergency braking or general braking from your trailer brakes automatically. This means that, unlike time-delay controllers, which send the same amount of preset power to your trailer brakes every time - proportional controllers are able to adapt to every braking situation differently. As you approach your stop your trailer will gradually brake in the same manner as your tow vehicle. Just set the initial power level, and you're good to go.

If you select the Autowbrake through Vistabule, it will be installed directly inside your trailer.

Time Delayed Brake Controller

These slow down your trailer gradually and therefore your stop is not immediate when the brakes are pressed. Rather than your stop being activated by pressure the trailer slows over the course of about 3 seconds until it is fully stopped. This pros of time delayed brake controllers are that they are a budget friendly option and they can also be installed anywhere on the tow vehicle.

Design a Trailer With Safety First at Vistabule

At Vistabule, we build with safety in mind. Our teardrop trailers are completely customizable, and this includes brake options and add ons. Ready to start designing your dream teardrop trailer? Check out our pricing worksheet or contact us today.

Teardrop Camper Lighting: A Full Guide

Having great teardrop camper lighting is an important part of the camping experience. Lighting adds ambience and can set the tone for a good night spent with family and friends. With so many options on the market it can be tricky to know what types of lighting are best for you and your trailer. In this blog, we cover the different types of teardrop lighting to help you find ways to level up your trailer.

How are Vistabule Trailers Powered?

The Vistabule comes with three power options. The AGM battery comes standard with your base model, but you can also choose to upgrade to a lithium ion battery or solar panels. You can even add both!

When it comes to powering your teardrop camper, it's purely dependent on how you intend to use power in your teardrop. You can find Vistabule's complete guide to powering a teardrop camper here.

AGM Batteries

Absorbent glass mat batteries (AGM) are a great place to start in your teardrop camper. Especially if you are looking to save money. Above is the 115 amp hour AGM battery that comes standard with our base model.

Their most prevalent features are:

• Perform better in below freezing temperatures

• These are heavy, about 2x the weight of a lithium ion battery

• As the battery dies the voltage drops at a linear rate

• They can be recharged many times over their lifespan

Lithium Ion Batteries

Battery Monitor + Monitoring App for Lithium-Ion Battery Package

Lithium ion batteries can be an upgrade from the AGM battery or a nice addition. We offer this lithium battery add-on package with awesome features like the mobile app shown above. This package uses a 100 amp hour 12 volt LifePo4 battery.

Some things to note about lithium ion batteries:

• They are substantially lighter than the competition

• They store more energy

• As the battery dies the voltage doesn't drop as drastically as it does with AGM batteries

• These have more usable voltage

Solar panels

Solar panels are the most recent addition to teardrop camper power options. We offer an add-on package by Sunflare Solar that is 130 watts, you can see more images of the solar panels in action here.

Things to note about solar panels:

• They provide environmental benefit by conserving power

• These will save you money over time

• They are great for long term camping

Lighting for Teardrop Interiors

Lighting up the inside of your teardrop camper can be an exciting part of the design process. You're given the ability to make it as homey as you want to with many customization options. For all things teardrop camper interior-related check out our complete guide.

Dome Galley Lighting

Interior Dome Lighting

Galley lights generally act as the primary lighting source inside your teardrop. Vistabule's base model teardrop comes with two dome cabin lights, and a single overhead dome light on the trailer hatch. The warm lighting creates a cozy vibe perfect for playing cards or getting ready for the day.

Reading Lights

Stargazer Lighting Package

When you're ready to tuck in for the night, having reading lights is a great option for setting the modd. Our base model trailer has two reading lights on each side of the galley. You can upgrade to the Stargazer package (shown above) which offers a front cabin reading light, a dual USB outlet, and a device shelf.

On a chilly night, these lights make for a cozy night in with your favorite book. Whether you read on a Kindle, Nook or an old fashioned physical copy the device shelf is the ideal place to put your story down when it's time to shut off the lights.

Multi-color LED Lighting

While the Stargazer Package is perfect for the bookworm camper, we know that may not be for everyone. Enter another fun upgrade for your teardrop camper lighting with these multi-colored LEDs. If you prefer to cozy up with a downloaded movie or a cup of tea you can customize your trailer with these LEDs hidden in your headboard for some night time mood lighting.

Bendy Galley Lighting

Bendy Galley Light

These bendy galley lights are versatile and great for cooking in the dark. They can be added to any Vistabule build and their bendy body allows you to point them in whichever direction you need them.

Lighting for Teardrop Exteriors

Exterior Vistabule Lighting

Having exterior camper lights on your teardrop trailer is crucial for camping safety. At Vistabule the base models come with two exterior porch lights but you can always add your favorite string lights to give your teardrop camper even more customization.

Light Up Your Teardrop With Vistabule 

One of the most fun parts about owning a teardrop trailer is being able to customize it in a way that reflects your personality and lifestyle. This comes into play especially with lighting! Whether you're looking for indoor lights, outdoor lights, or power options, we're here to help. Visit our Pricing and Options page to find all teardrop lighting opportunities. When you're ready, we'll help you build a teardrop camper you'll want to take everywhere. Happy camping!

Trailer Hitch Height: The Complete Guide

You’ve got your gear loaded, everything is strapped down tight, family’s on-board — all you need to do now is hitch up your teardrop trailer and take off on your next adventure.

But, if you’re new to towing something behind your vehicle, you may need some help understanding more about trailer hitch height. This is an important part of having a safe, steady ride, and ultimately, a more enjoyable trip. 

Why is Trailer Hitch Height Important? 

Proper hitch height is perhaps the most important thing you need to take care of before towing. Without proper hitch leveling, you may experience damage to your trailer or find it hard to control on the road.

If the hitch is too high, the back end of the trailer angles downward and can incur damage when going over bumps in the street or driving through rugged off-road terrain. 

If the hitch is too low and the tongue of your trailer is pointed downward, you experience the same problem on the front end, in addition to making it more difficult to mount and dismount. When the tongue is too low, it’s hard to swing the trailer jack into place without the help of another person.

There are many advantages to keeping your trailer level while in tow. For instance, any gear on the inside of your teardrop camper is much more likely to stay in place. With a level trailer, you can pretty much park anywhere without much adjustment and set-up camp. You’ll really appreciate this if you roll into your campsite late and want to hop in and go to bed.

Parts of a Trailer Hitch

To learn more about trailer hitches, there are a few words you’ll want to have in your vocabulary. Let’s dive in! 

Tow Vehicle

This is the car, truck, or other motor vehicle that you are using to pull the trailer. 

Hitch

A hitch is the sturdy steel structure that bolts onto the frame of your tow vehicle. This provides the secure, stable connection to the vehicle needed for safe towing. This will be designed specifically for your vehicle make/model/year so if you’re purchasing yourself, be sure to confirm compatibility. You’ll also need to confirm that the hitch capacity rating is sufficient to tow your trailer weight.

Hitch Receiver

A hitch receiver is the square opening on the hitch that attaches to the back of the tow vehicle. It’s a square hole, usually placed under the back bumper, where you’ll attach the hitch. 

Drawbar/Ball Mount and Trailer Ball

The drawbar/ball mount attaches to the hitch receiver tube, secured with a hitch pin, and can be fixed in a "rise" or "drop" orientation depending on the height requirements for what you are towing. This is also what the trailer ball is mounted, the metal ball that you attach your trailer coupler to.

Trailer Coupler

The coupler is the rounded mechanism located at the end of the trailer’s tongue which rests over the towing vehicle’s trailer ball. You then tighten the trailer coupler over the ball mount, so that the trailer is attached to the towing vehicle. 

Photo from CURT MFG

How Do You Measure the Correct Trailer Hitch Height? 

When measuring, ensure that you’re parked on a level surface. Also, take into account any heavy items you may be hauling inside your trailer. Heavy equipment inside might skew your measurements by weighing down the trailer. 

1. Measure Your Towing Vehicle’s Hitch Height

To obtain the right trailer hitch height, you’ll first need to measure the distance from the ground to the top of the inside of your hitch receiver attached to your tow vehicle. 

In the U.S., trailer hitches are measured in standard inches — a tape measure and level are the perfect tools to get this job done.

2. Measure Your Trailer’s Coupler Height

Now, on the trailer, you have the hitch coupler. Measure the distance from the ground to the bottom edge of your trailer’s coupler. 

3. Find the Difference

Finally, subtract the two numbers you came up with. You’re left with the amount of rise or droppage you’ll need to account for. If your number is positive, you’ll need to drop the trailer.  If your number is negative, you’ll need to raise the trailer. 

Adjusting the Trailer Hitch Height

If you’re seeing some big differences, and aren’t sure what to do, here are some items you can use to remedy the situation.

Drop Hitches

A drop hitch is a receiver that extends out and then dips down a certain height. This lowers the ball mount that the coupler connects to, and subsequently lowers the angle of your trailer. Several types of smaller towables will likely use a drop hitch — for example, with a teardrop like those manufactured by Vistabule, you’ll use a drop hitch because the trailer frame sits lower to the ground compared to larger pull-behind motorhomes.

However, you may not need a drop hitch if you’re using a smaller vehicle, like a car or crossover. Since these also sit lower to the ground, compared to pickup trucks and SUVs, they may just require a simple straight hitch when towing something compact like a teardrop camper.

Rise Hitches

A rise hitch is just the opposite. It’s where the hitch extends out, and then angles upward so that the ball is higher in the air. Any trailer that is noticeably larger than the vehicle towing it is likely using a rise hitch. For example, although they’re large, pontoon boats are very light, so they’re towable by smaller vehicles. In this instance, you’d want a rise hitch for the occasion, since the shorter vehicle needs to serve a taller frame.

The only thing to worry about with rise hitches is that you need to double check your vehicle’s towing capacity and hitch strength. Since these types of hitches allow you to tow larger objects on a smaller vehicle, you don’t want to overdo it and experience a decoupling incident.

What Size Drop or Rise Hitch Do I Need? 

Once you do your measurements and understand whether you need a drop or rise hitch, head to any local hardware store to choose from a wide selection of hitches. But where do you start?

Most hitches come measured in inches and fractions of inches, and are available in many standard sizes. Details listed directly on your car’s hitch or in your manual will inform you of the proper hitch size and weight capacity. 

Regardless of what your vehicle requires, It’s generally recommended that your hitch ball does not reach more than 25 inches when measured from the center of the ball to the ground. Any higher and you’re pushing the overall stability of your vehicle. 

Vistabule recommends the following sweet spot for its own trailers:

• You want to aim for 20” when measuring from the top of the trailer ball to the ground (with an empty vehicle). Then you will simulate a loaded vehicle (e.g., using two adults sitting towards the rear of your tow vehicle), aiming for somewhere in the 18" range. Too low and you may find it difficult to properly seat your trailer coupler on to the trailer ball, especially on uneven terrain.

Ideal trailer ball height/hitch position

What Are Adjustable Hitches? 

If you’re looking for a hitch that’s more versatile, or perhaps can be used between various vehicles, adjustable drop hitches have hit the trailer market in a big way. These devices come with the ability to change the height and ball mount size to make towing more convenient.

Towing a heavy snowmobile trailer with a Ford-150 today, but want to go camping with your teardrop trailer and Subaru Outback tomorrow? Simply adjust the drop or rise using the pin-and-hole mechanism to mix and match towing capabilities. Beware though, that they tend to cost more than a generic hitch, and are not fit for every type of vehicle.

Of course, standard rise/drop hitches are versatile in their own right. Simply by removing the mount ball, flipping it over, and reinstalling the ball, you give yourself both a rise and drop hitch. Flip over a 2 inch drop, for example, and you get a two-inch rise. Swapping in and out the ball can be done with a pipe or crescent wrench.

Adjustable hitch (photo from etrailer.com)

Average Teardrop Trailer Hitch Height 

On average, you can expect a trailer hitch height of about 16-19 inches from the ground to the bottom of the coupler. The vast majority of hitch manufacturers sell their products with a ball mount that ends up in this range.

Teardrop trailers will normally be 17 inches or lower in height, with ball sizes that range from the smallest, 1-⅞ inch to the largest 2-5/16-inch balls. Vistabule’s couplers, for instance, are sized for a 2 inch trailer ball, along with a light towing weight of only 1,330 pounds. And, thanks to the extra care we took in engineering out any imbalance issues, even if your camper is slightly raised or lowered, you will not experience much sway, if any. Visit our specs page for more information about Vistabule trailer sizes.

Build Your Teardrop With Vistabule 

Now that you know more about the proper height of your trailer hitch, you can take off on your next journey with confidence. Remember to take the proper measurements, level everything out, secure your gear down tightly, and most importantly, have fun! 

If you’re searching for a new way to travel in style, look to Vistabule for a high quality teardrop camper. These compact, comfortable and versatile recreational vehicles are built to provide you with the ultimate camping experience, whether you’re going a mile down the road or exploring uncharted areas throughout the country.

For more information about building your personal haulable home, take a look at our Pricing Worksheet.

Teardrop Trailer Weight: Everything You Need to Know

Weight plays a big part in considering a teardrop trailer.

Whether you’re a camping pro or want to learn more about the joys of owning an RV, there are a lot of details to consider, especially the weight of your teardrop camper.

This guide will help you learn about the weight of teardrop trailers and how to tow one behind your vehicle. That way you can travel safely and with confidence.

Use the links below to jump to a specific section on the page.

• How Much Do Teardrop Trailers Weigh?

• Towing Weight Measurements

• Traditional Teardrop Trailers vs. Large/Deluxe Teardrops

• Teardrop Trailer Towing Requirements

• Towing Safety Considerations

• Get Out on the Road!

How Much Do Teardrop Trailers Weigh?

We design teardrop trailers to provide the greatest amount of comfort in a small amount of space. They weigh only one to two tons, on average. This lightweight layout makes them towable by almost any vehicle with a hitch. Even motorcycles and bicycles, in some cases.

Average Travel Trailer Weights

Want to know how we reached our average range? We looked at teardrop trailers from well-known manufacturers throughout the country:

Vistabule Teardrop Trailer Weight

• Dry Weight: 1,330 lbs.

• Gross Weight: 2,200 lbs.

Vistabule offers a lightweight teardrop trailer option, weighing 1,330 pounds, dry. Even with fully-loaded features, these campers are still lighter than many other models on the market. We placed special care on its aerodynamic design and perfectly balanced axle. It pulls smoothly behind almost any car, SUV, truck, or other vehicle.

Starting at 1,330lbs, towing a Vistabule is a cinch for a wide variety of vehicles.

 Meerkat Teardrop Trailer Weight

• Dry Weight: 880 lbs.

• Gross Weight: 2,000 lbs.

If there was a featherweight division in the RV world, Meerkat’s CampKat would be a title contender. At 880 lbs., this camper is a good choice for those looking for a stripped-down, hassle-free option. With add-on features, you can tailor your trailer’s weight and comfort.

Taxa Outdoors Teardrop Trailer Weight (specify model - TigerMoth)

• Dry Weight:  1,800 lbs.

• Gross Weight: 2,500 lbs.

One of the most innovative teardrop trailers to hit the market is Cricket, from Taxa Outdoors. It clocks in at just 15 feet long and 2,500 lbs. gross vehicle weight. This small, NASA-inspired RV still fits two adults and two children comfortably.

Happier Camper Teardrop Weight

• Dry Weight: 1,100 lbs.

• Gross Weight: 3,500 lbs.

These vintage-inspired trailers are capitalizing on a resurgence in van culture. Happier Camper's HC1 model has a classic exterior reminiscent of a 60s-era Volkswagen. The cool look doesn’t add a bunch of extra weight, thanks to the use of fiberglass and modular components.

Timberleaf Teardrop Trailer Weight

• Dry Weight: 1,500 lbs.

• Gross Weight: 3,500 lbs.

Timberleaf’s Classic model is packed with features and weighs in at a dry 1500 lbs. With three different suspension packages, it can handle up to 3,500 lbs on its axle. Thanks to the heavy use of lightweight birch wood throughout its design, it provides a cozy camping retreat in an easy-to-tow package.

Little Guy Max Teardrop Trailer Weight

• Dry Weight: 3,010 lbs.

• Gross Weight: 4,200 lbs.

Little Guy Max is on the heavier end of the list, but the tradeoff might be worth it. It has a lot of amenities. Campers will enjoy the 6’7” interior height, as well as the separated kitchen and dinette areas, and full entertainment center.

Towing Weight Measurements

Manufacturers use a variety of terms to designate different types of load limits like cargo space, towing capacity, torque load, and so on. While the technical terms aren't crucial, you should get to know a few. These weight terms tell you how to determine the proper weight for towing:

• Gross Weight: The maximum allowed weight of a teardrop trailer, including cargo, fluids, additional amenities, passengers, etc.

• Dry Weight: (Not to be confused with dry camping!) The weight of a teardrop trailer as shipped from the manufacturer. Does not include cargo, fluids, extra amenities, passengers, etc.

• Gross Axle Weight Rating: The maximum allowed weight that can be supported by a teardrop trailer axle.

Traditional Teardrop Trailers vs. Large/Deluxe Teardrops

When it comes to teardrop trailers, not all are created equal. That's why the weight of traditional versus deluxe models varies. Because of their unique layout, traditional teardrops fit the many comforts of home into a compact space. They are usually 4 to 6 feet in width and 8 to 10 feet in length. For example, rather than cramming a kitchen into the cabin, a traditional teardrop’s back galley pops open. There you have a counter, sink, stovetop, and even a refrigeration unit.

Many companies market certain trailers as teardrops that are actually closer to a full RV. You may enjoy the extra amenities and headroom. But you’ll have to sacrifice towing ease, convenience, and gas money, caused by the extra weight and size. 

Sometimes too much is too much.

Teardrop Trailer Towing Requirements

While teardrop trailers are easy to pull, you’ll need to make sure your vehicle is capable of doing so. If you don’t already have a hitch system installed, adding them to a vehicle is a relatively cheap and easy job.

First, head to your local auto shop and have them install a hitch receiver if your vehicle needs it.

Next, you’ll need a tow/hitch mount kit that slides into the hitch receiver. This is what joins your vehicle and trailer.

Finally, you’ll want to have a 7-Pin Wire Harness installed. This makes the trailer’s lights, brakes, blinkers, and emergency flashers work with the vehicle’s, as well as allowing for vehicle-to-trailer battery charging. A 4-Pin Connection, even with an adaptor, loses this charging ability and is not recommended.

Can I Pull a Teardrop Trailer with my Car?

Whether you can pull a teardrop trailer with your car will depend on the towing capacity of the vehicle, gross weight of the RV, and hitch type, among other criteria. But, yes, you can generally use a car to tow a teardrop since they don’t weigh much.

According to Autolist, most vehicles have the power to pull something small. An average-size car can usually pull as much as 1,000 to 1,500 pounds. Larger cars and crossovers can pull as much as 3,500 pounds.

Because of their tapered shape, teardrops are more aerodynamic on the road. They rarely sway or fishtail, ideal for smaller vehicles. If you’re unsure whether your car can tow a teardrop trailer, consult your owner’s manual or check with the manufacturer.

Trailer Hitch and Pin

As you start towing your teardrop trailer, you’ll become familiar with the trailer hitch and pin system. This small metal pin goes through a special hole on the hitch kit. It clips in to prevent the trailer mount from disconnecting. You insert the ball mount into the receiver opening. Hold it in place with a hitch pin and clip, and then attach the trailer to the ball mount.

On the trailer side, there is also a pin for the coupler or latch that secures the tongue to the ball mount. On most trailers, you’ll see a small hole on the latch itself, usually near the hinge. This is where a pin goes through to keep it from popping open on a bumpy road. 

Practice

If you’ve never towed something behind a vehicle before, you’ll want to practice. The best approach is to partner with someone with experience towing. They can coach you through turning, reversing, parking, and other driving techniques.

Always follow the local laws and take safety considerations into account when towing your teardrop trailer.

Towing Safety Considerations

While towing something behind your vehicle may seem intimidating at first, before you know it you’ll be driving like an old pro. But even veteran road warriors need to keep safe driving top of mind to ensure everyone remains safe. Whenever you’re towing something, remember the following safety tips:

• Make wider turns: With a teardrop trailer, you’re extending how much road space you occupy by many feet. You’ll need to make wider turns to avoid hitting curbs and corners with the trailer. Make sure to avoid any cars that may be coming in your turning space.

• Think in opposites when reversing: Reversing is one of the hardest tasks you’ll have to master when towing a teardrop trailer. It’s the opposite of your normal intuition. When backing your trailer, turning the steering wheel left causes the trailer to turn right. Once you get used to the movements of both the car and trailer in reverse, you’ll be more comfortable in tighter driving situations.

• Keep an eye on your mirrors: Even though this is a basic lesson in driver’s ed, it's easy to forget, especially when towing. The trailer might limit your visibility, so make sure you’re checking mirrors every five seconds, as recommended by experts. Get used to physically turning your head and checking for other cars occupying blind spots.

• Brake earlier: Even though teardrop trailers are lighter than their mobile home counterparts, they still add extra weight to your vehicle. With an extra few thousand pounds pushing behind you, your car will need more braking time, so be prepared.

• Get covered: There is risk involved whenever you’re towing any type of item behind your vehicle. Make sure you have the proper insurance to protect yourself and others financially, in the case of an accident. Standard liability coverage under your normal car insurance should extend to a trailer in most cases, as long as the owner of the car also owns the trailer. (Check with your policyholder to be sure). If you’ve reserved a short-term option, a small renter’s insurance policy may be wise.

Get Out on the Road!

Now that you know more about the weight of teardrop trailers, you can make a wiser investment into the RV lifestyle. At the end of the day, there are a number of factors that contribute to a better way of traveling. From your ability to tow a trailer to the size of your camper to the added amenities and beyond.

Ultimately, what matters is that you have the proper level of comfort both on and off the road. So be sure to make the right weight-based considerations before you go all-in on a specific teardrop.

Each of our custom-built teardrop trailers are exquisitely designed and carefully-built for its owner. With our many add-on options, you’re ready for any climate, any occasion, and any location. Download the pricing worksheet below or get in touch with our team today to learn more.

10 Teardrop Trailer Storage Ideas

It’s no secret that teardrop trailers are tiny, but did you know they can comfortably store almost anything you need for your next trip? At first glance, it’s hard to imagine where you could possibly fit all of your camping necessities, but carefully built teardrop trailers have amazing storage capabilities. Keep reading to learn some of our favorite teardrop trailer storage ideas, and storage features to look for when buying your teardrop. 

1. Make a List of What You Need

Teardrop camping is all about that minimal life, so there’s no need to pack more than necessary! Before packing, make a list of everything you absolutely need. If there’s room for extras here and there at the end, feel free to throw it in. Creating a list beforehand will help ensure you have everything you need, and can help establish where everything will be stored when traveling. 

2. Choose a Trailer With Smart Built-In Storage

Ample interior cabin storage

When choosing a teardrop trailer, you’ll want to make sure it has built-in storage so that you don’t need to purchase any extra parts. At Vistabule, we want you to have a comfortable and clutter-free trip, so we created multiple types of storage for our trailers: 

Headboard Storage Cabs: 3 lower and 2 upper storage cabs on the headboards to put shoes, food, or whatever else you need to stow away!

Note: A middle bottom cupboard being available as storage space depends on the options selected.

Floor Storage Bins: Need more space for clothing and other items? Vistabule trailers feature two storage compartments beneath the bed to stow items while you sleep. 

Dimensions (in inches):

Height: 7”

Width: 22”

Length: 36” - 46” w/front slope

Interior Front Storage Bin (Optional): For even more storage, you can select a third interior storage bin located at the front of the cabin, which is easily accessible while the sofa bed is in "couch mode".

Height: 10”

Width: 35 1/4”

Length: 6.5”

Optional Front Storage Bin

Exterior Tongue Box (Optional): Looking for a good place to store wet/dirty gear and everything in between? The optional exterior tongue box provides convenient ample storage space outside the trailer.

Height: 18”

Width: 19”

Length: 36”

Galley Storage: Store your silverware, dishes, bottles, and spices in the galley cabinet storage. 

3. Use Drawer & Shelf Dividers 

Dividers are a great way to further organize your existing storage space. You can either use dividers in your drawers or shelves to keep your items separate. This is often helpful for areas where you need to store several smaller items like silverware, tools, pens, first aid kits, and more. 

4. Use a Trailer Tongue Box for Tools & External Storage

It’s perfectly fine to run out of storage room in your teardrop. When it comes down to it, you may need to bring some extra storage units for camping or travel supplies. Trailer tongue boxes are specifically designed to fit on the tongue of your teardrop trailer. They are often heavy-duty, weather proof boxes that can protect your items from the elements. Store your food for camping or tools in a tongue box for safe keeping!

Optional exterior tongue box for all your wet/dirty gear!

5. Collapsible Sinks & Buckets 

You may have a sink within your teardrop, but if you don’t want extra food and gunk draining through it internally, pack along a collapsible sink that takes up minimal space. 

You can either use a portable sink as a simple basin to wash dishes and clothes, or some even come with faucets for heavy duty cleaning. Camping sinks are often collapsable for optimal storing, and can easily fit in any small space. 

6. Save Cooler Space by Meal Prepping 

When planning your next trip, it’s often helpful to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time instead of stopping along the way. This will ensure that everything you purchase will be used, without any unnecessary food sitting in your trailer. You can even meal prep ahead of time so that your food is ready to pop on the grill, stove, or over the fire!

7. Shoe Storage Bags

After long days of hiking, touring and camping, we know that shoes can get smelly quickly. Even worse, they can get in the way when you’re trying to kick back in your trailer! While you can simply store your footwear in your trailer’s compartments, you can also use shoe storage bags to eliminate the smell. 

8. Roll Clothes in Drawers or Bins 

When you pack your clothes into your trailer, consider rolling instead of folding. You can stack shirts on top of one another, and simply roll together. Not only does this technique save space, but it also offers up room for more items if need be. 

9. Vacuum Seal Necessary Items

If you’re going on a longer trip, sometimes you’ll need to pack along more clothes than you can fit by simply folding. Vacuum seal clothes or other items that you know you may not need in the first few days of traveling to maximize your storage. Be sure to flatten items in the bag so that they don’t appear crinkled or damaged once you’re ready to take them out. 

10. Use Car or Rooftop Box for Extra Storage

Your car is up for grabs when it comes to storage, even the roof! Use a rooftop storage box to keep your larger camping items or food while on the road. Rooftop carriers come in all shapes and sizes, and can fit on almost any car. Only downside is that they may be a little less aerodynamic on a windy day out on the freeway which can negatively impact your overall MPG.

Camp Efficiently With Vistabule

Whether you enjoy camping minimally, or love to pack along all your favorite things, there is no blueprint when it comes to teardrop camping - these are simply storage suggestions! 

At Vistabule, we create custom-built luxury teardrop trailers with layers of well-organized space to support your lifestyle. To learn more about the accessories and options you can choose for your Vistabule, visit our pricing and options page.

What to Know About Teardrop Trailer Dimensions

Besides the visual appeal, people are often drawn to teardrop trailers because of the compatibility they offer for camping, towing and storage. When purchasing a teardrop trailer, weight and size need to be considered for towing and comfort. 

Want to learn more about teardrop trailer dimensions before making your next purchase? In this blog we cover every measurement you need to consider when customizing your teardrop–including entry height, bedroom size, head height, and more. 

How Big Are Teardrop Trailers?

Teardrop trailers are called “teardrops” due to their unique shape. Teardrop trailers commonly measure about six feet wide by ten feet long by five feet in height. Depending on the design, either the front or the rear portion of the trailer is taller than the other, creating a teardrop-shaped profile. 

Hotdog for scale.

Teardrop trailers are much smaller than your average RV or camper, making them easy to store and transport. In fact, they can even fit in your garage when you’re not out exploring!

True Teardrop Dimensions 

It’s important to note that there are true teardrop trailers, and trailers that simply have the teardrop shape but are significantly larger. Cabin lengths for true teardrops tend to stay in between 5-10 feet long. Anything longer or wider than the dimensions listed above is likely not a true teardrop trailer. 

Vistabule Teardrop Trailer Dimensions

At Vistabule, we aim to create high-quality teardrop trailers that meet the true dimensions that are sought after for a fun teardrop camping experience. Below are Vistabule’s standard dimensions for the trailer interior and exterior: 

Exterior dimensions: 

• Body Length: 10 feet

• Total Length: 14 feet

• Body Width: 5 feet

• Width with Fenders: 6 feet 10 inches

• Height From Ground to the Top of Fan Cover: 67 inches

Interior dimensions: 

• Interior Cabin Height: 43 inches

• Under the Floor Storage and Foot Room: 6.5 inches

• Main Bed Size: 58.5 × 78 inches

Kitchen Galley Area:

• Countertop height: 39 inches

• Upper cabinet height: 51 inches

How Heavy Are Teardrop Campers? 

The weight of a teardrop trailer depends on how they were constructed, but on average trailers can weigh anywhere between 500 to 3000 pounds. Vistabule trailers weigh only 1330 pounds, and around 1696 pounds with fully-loaded options. This weight makes it easy to tow with the 2” ball hitch and aerodynamic shape. 

Why Size Matters

Teardrop trailers may be small, but they open up doors to new possibilities that larger rigs could not. Because of their signature teardrop shape, these trailers are more aerodynamic on the road, which allows for smoother days of driving. This shape also allows for simple storage options, whether it be in your garage or in a storage shed for winter. 

Best of all, teardrop trailers are a great way to level up your minimalist camping experience, without going full RV mode. If you enjoy tent camping but want a little extra shelter and storage while on-the-go, teardrops are a perfect choice. You can still experience the stars and sounds of the forest above, all from the comfort of your tiny trailer.

Why Weight Matters

Teardrops are generally light-weight, which makes traveling much less difficult. You may save gas while towing a lighter trailer on your road trips. Or you will undoubtedly have less trouble attaching your trailer for when you’re ready to takeoff. Plus, some remote areas may have bridges that heavy rigs can’t cross. With your light-weight teardrop, you’ll be prepared for any adventure. 

Cozy, Not Cramped

In Vistabule teardrop trailers, people up to 6’4” can fit comfortably. In the trailers, the ceiling height peaks, making it easy to move around in both bed mode and sofa mode. Both bed and sofa mode actually utilize the deck space to lower your seating position and maximize headroom. In these teardrop trailers, we can confirm you’ll stay cozy and comfortable, without getting cramped. 

Conclusion 

Teardrop trailers may seem small at first glance, but they are incredibly versatile and offer a variety of options of storage and living while on the move. Want to learn more about what you can do with your teardrop trailer? Visit our Pricing and Options page to see all of the possibilities for add-ons and accessories. Happy travels!

Teardrop Trailer: The Camper That Fits in Your Garage

After a long weekend out on the road, the best feeling is being able to easily unload your camping gear and head inside for a nice bath. With a classic teardrop trailer, gone are the days of worrying about where to safely park your trailer after a trip. One of the most unique aspects of teardrop trailers is that they can fit directly in your garage.

In this blog, we cover all of the benefits of owning a camper that fits in a garage, and how to secure your own!

Photo by Kurt Moses

How Does a Teardrop Trailer Fit in a Standard Garage?

Vistabule teardrop trailers are 14 feet long, and 6’10” wide with fenders, making it simple to store in compact spaces for when you aren’t on the go. See our specs page for more information on measurements.

Image by Bert Taylor

Single Car Garage

Single car garages tend to measure between 12 and 16 feet wide. When storing your Vistabule trailer in a single car garage that’s 12 feet wide, you’ll have just under a yard of space on both sides to act as a buffer.

You likely won’t have enough space for your car if you choose to store your teardrop in a single car garage, but you’ll have plenty of room for other traveling accessories, tools, and whatever else you need to store in your garage.

Photo by Sean Foster

One and a Half Car Garage

1.5 car garage measurements fall in between a single garage and a two car garage. Average sizes for 1.5 garages range from 16 feet wide to over 20 feet wide. Depending on the size of your car and the width of your 1.5 garage, you may be able to fit your car inside with your teardrop trailer. 1.5 car garages are optimal for those who own one car, and want some extra storage space for their tools and toys.

Two Car Garage

Two car garages generally fall between 20 feet and 24 feet wide, and around 20 feet long. In a two car garage, you would be able to comfortably fit both your car and teardrop trailer, with extra space to store other garage tools and items.

The Advantages of Garageable Travel Trailers

Teardrop trailers are much smaller than your average RV, making them perfect for garage storage. Below are some top advantages of garageable travel trailers:

Convenience

With a teardrop trailer, your packing and unpacking process becomes relatively short. Simply store your camping basics within your teardrop, throw in a duffel and you’re ready to go. The best part? The teardrop can live in your garage, ready for your next adventure. No need for multiple rounds of unpacking with a small and efficient teardrop!

Price

For those that own large trailers, it’s not uncommon to have to pay to lodge them elsewhere. With your garageable teardrop, you can easily save money by storing it at home. It also makes hitting the road that much easier!

Security

Storing your car inside a garage is the best security measure in preventing auto theft or the removal of valuable components like wheels or catalytic convertors. The same can be said for teardrop trailers. Potential theft is an unfortunate reality, but thankfully the unique dimensions of a teardrop trailer allow for the added security that comes with storing it inside a garage. Out of sight, out of mind, and out of the hands of would-be thieves!

Less Wear and Tear

When stored in a garage, your teardrop won’t be exposed to the elements outside. Whether you live in a place that has harsh winters or hot sun, a garage will keep the trailer safe from storms, falling branches, and long term UV damage.

Photo by John Mark Jennings

Small Trailers Are Cozy and Comfortable

Best of all, teardrop trailers may be tiny, but they are mighty comfortable! If you haven’t experienced traveling or camping in a teardrop trailer, you may think that they are too cramped for comfortable living. However, this is not the case! Many Vistabule clients say their 6 ft+ friends can fit in their trailer with ease. With several storage options available, your Vistabule trailer will feel like the ideal place to relax with no clutter or cramped space.

What is Not a Garage-Sized Teardrop?

Teardrop trailers have a distinct size and shape. Anything above the general dimensions of a teardrop, is likely not a true teardrop trailer. Trailers that are smaller than RVs, but larger than teardrops, may offer more of a challenge for garage storing. Because of this, teardrops are often the easiest to store in your garage at home.

Photo by Daniel Salcius

Do Vistabule Trailers Fit in Your Garage?

Vistabule trailers are made with clear expectations and standards for what a teardrop is, so they can fit in your garage! Vistabule teardrop trailers are unique because of their low height, and more narrow width. This makes them narrow enough and short enough for most garage stalls. You can even open the hatch and doors for easy access to load and unload while the trailer is inside your garage.

To learn more about what Vistabule trailers have to offer, visit our pricing and options page to view all customizable options. Happy traveling!

Whiskeytown: Carr Fire Survivor

Wildland firefighter watches over a controlled burn in the Historic Tower House District (April, 2022). Photo: NPS/Edwige Moses

May is National Wildfire Awareness Month. Coincidentally, we happen to be volunteering in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area where the most destructive fire in the National Park system history (the Carr Fire of 2018) destroyed 97% of the park’s 42,000 acres.

Whiskeytown is located in Northern California, about 10 miles west of the community of Redding. The fire was named after the location where it started, on Highway 299 near Carr Powerhouse Road. It is believed to have been started accidentally from the sparks of a rim scraping the pavement.

Close-up of a charred tree located near the Carr Fire's point of origin. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses

The destruction from the resulting fire was such that the entirety of Whiskeytown was initially closed to the public. Over the past few years, the Park’s staff and outside partners have made significant progress towards rebuilding infrastructures and restoring the trails. On April 11th, 2022, the Park officially re-opened the majority of the hiking trails that had remained closed since 2018. As well, for the first time since the Carr Fire, ranger-led programs for school groups have resumed in the Park. To date, the Lakeshore Day Use areas have reopened, dozens of miles of roads have been repaired and opened, and at least 20,000 hazard trees have been removed. Although there has been tremendous progress, the recovery and rebuilding of Whiskeytown is still ongoing.

Park ranger leads the first school-group program since the Carr Fire. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses

Wildfires have been occurring for hundreds of millions of years but due to climate change these types of fires are happening more frequently and with more intensity. The Northern California region has been caught in a vicious cycle of extreme heat, drought and fire for multiple years. Wildfires are not just a result of climate change, they also contribute to it.

Whiskeytown’s expert fire and trail crews have been working very hard to alleviate some of the wildfire risk by reducing forest fuel loads in the Park. Prescribed fires and hazard tree felling are just a couple ways they mitigate the risk. The Park has also utilized goats as a way to clear underbrush at the Tower House Historic District. It is amazing what a couple hundred grazing goats can do to reduce fire hazard by creating defensible space around structures.

Park's Journey-level feller removes a hazard tree in the Brandy Creek Beach Area. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses

Guardian dog herds goats to the next grazing area in Tower House Historic District. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses

Park's Wildland Firefighter throws brush onto burn pile during a controlled burn operation near the Visitor Center. Photo: NPS/Kurt Moses

Many of the Park’s current staff witnessed the Carr Fire’s devastation first hand, some even lost their homes. As National Park volunteers, we have had the privilege to document through photography the restoration efforts and just a few of the exceptional people that work here. We support the National Parks because we believe in their mission to preserve the natural and cultural resources. However, our biggest reward at Whiskeytown was to get to know and learn from a very talented and dedicated group of rangers as we photographed their work in the field.

Vistabule near Brandy Creek Beach, Whiskeytown Lake (April, 2022). Photo: Kurt Moses

It is almost certain that a large fire will impact this area again in the near future. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area and many sites like it are susceptible to the dire consequences of a rapidly changing climate. Threats like wildfires are morphing America’s landscapes at a faster pace than at any time in history. If you are planning a road trip to Northern California, consider visiting Whiskeytown or any other National Park site before they are changed forever.

Securing Your Trailer: Insurance, Common Sense Security, Locks, GPS

Buying a Vistabule Teardrop Trailer is a significant monetary decision. Whether you’ve financed through a bank or dipped into your nest egg, you have made a big financial investment. It is an unfortunate reality that crime and theft are on the rise. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, “Thieves stole 880,595 vehicles in the U.S. in 2020, up 10.9% from 2019,” so, it only makes sense that you would want some assurances that your trailer is going to be protected.

Crime-o-saurus!

 Insurance

  Before we dive in to locks and securing your trailer, your first step should be to consider a good insurance policy that covers your trailer against theft. In a worst-case scenario, this will help cover the costs of your investment. A good insurance policy will take away a lot of that sting should you become a victim yourself. Much like locks, not all policies are equal, so be sure to shop around.

Common-sense Security: At Home

  Now let's talk about security. There are some common-sense best practices that will go a long way in insuring that you and your trailer aren’t the victims of crime. Consider where you will be storing your trailer when not in use. Not everyone will have the space to store a trailer in a garage, but this is obviously the best preventative measure. If you must store your trailer outside, consider placing it somewhere with high visibility, but not so close to the street that a thief could “case” your trailer from their car to figure out a good point of attack. Think about investing in a prominently placed security camera to let thieves know they are being watched and recorded. Install motion detecting lights—make the thieves do their dirty work exposed out in the open.

 Common-sense Security: In The Wild

And what about when you are using your trailer while camping, but have plans that will leave it unattended for the day? Thefts are statistically less likely while camping in a crowded campground. Too many eyes and ears. You should feel relatively safe leaving your trailer behind while you go out hiking, fishing, etc. If you are boondocking, you may feel more hesitant to leave your trailer behind, but it is also less likely that criminals are prowling the backcountry looking for an easy score. Of course, any time you leave your trailer alone, lock it up the same way you would while storing it at home. And that brings us to locks.

Your locked trailer is relatively safe in a crowded campground

Locking Up Your Trailer

  There is a wide variety of locks out there to secure your trailer. There are coupler locks that cover up the entire hitch point, which makes it impossible to secure the trailer to a ball hitch to tow away while the lock is engaged. These are by far the most common locks for securing your trailer and tend to offer the most robust level of protection. There are lockable pins that thread through the coupler clasp that prevent it from being able to lock onto a hitch ball, making a secure connection for towing very difficult. There are wheel chock locks, much like a boot found on an illegally parked vehicle, that will prevent your trailer’s wheels from rolling. And there are simple padlocks that can secure your trailer’s safety chains (although towing away a stolen trailer with safety chains alone is incredibly dangerous/stupid as the trailer will be all over the road and will crash through the rear of the tow vehicle as soon as it slows down.) Many people like to mix and match these different lock options for added security.

 “What Lock(s) Should I Buy?”

I like to offer a little disclaimer before suggesting a specific brand of lock. Though some locks are far better than others, all locks can be cracked. It comes down to how skilled/and or determined the would-be thief happens to be. A good lock will deter crimes of opportunity; but with time, tools, and know-how, all locks can be broken/picked. I could show you almost any current lock on the market and then a subsequent YouTube video demonstrating that lock being picked/drilled/sawed/hammered into and eventually bypassed. So, it comes back that idea of deterrence. Which lock is going to be enough of a hassle that it will deter most thieves due to its construction, build quality, lock core complexity, etc.?

  Lockpicking is a skill that requires finesse, experience, and specific tools. It is more likely that a thief will rely on brute strength with crowbars, sledgehammers, or power tools (drills, Sawzalls, angle grinders) to simply break the lock or its anchor point. This means you want to look for a lock with a strong metal body (e.g., steel, carbon steel---some lock companies use zinc alloys to save on costs - but these tend to be weaker against brute force attacks when compared to steel) that is constructed with brute force and power tool attacks in mind. 

These are not official endorsements of any kind, but the following locks are highly rated online, and that seems to be some indication that they are successfully deterring most thefts. All of these products are currently compatible with a Vistabule. Proven Industries makes a beefy coupler lock, the 2178-D1, that would deter most opportunists.  Another option is a wheel chock lock like the TCL65, by Trimax. Alternatively, if you like like the idea of having less keys, you can stick with Proven Industries and try their wheel boot. For $1 they can key both the coupler lock and wheel boot the same. While this is on, your trailer isn’t going anywhere. Because some more enterprising thieves may remove the entire wheel and throw on a spare to bypass the wheel chock lock, you may also want to consider a wheel lock that replaces one of your wheel’s lug nuts with a uniquely keyed lock that fastens to one of the five studs on your axle hub. If a thief can’t remove all the lug nuts, they can’t remove the wheel.

Proven Locks Model 2178-D1

Having all of options mentioned might be overkill for some, and for others it will give them just the peace of mind they’re looking for.

 Supplemental Security (GPS Tracking)

  Finally, some trailer owners round out their security by hiding a GPS tracker in an inconspicuous location on their trailer. The tracker is usually paired with an app for your phone or computer that will give you very accurate live updates on the movement and location of your trailer. The downside of many of these products is that they do require some sort of monthly or annual subscription fee. While this next option is limited to iPhone users, the Apple AirTag is a cheaper alternative to a traditional GPS tracker and doesn’t require a subscription. Roughly the size of a quarter, these small discs ping their location off other iPhones in the area, which is then relayed to your iPhone via the “Find My” application. The accuracy of the AirTag is of course dependent on being in the vicinity of other iPhones, which isn’t likely an issue in populated areas, but will be less than helpful if your trailer is being towed in a remote location. Tile is a similar technology and is compatible with Android phones.

Apple AirTag

 A Final Word

In the end, it bears repeating that the best thing you can do to secure your trailer is to have it insured against theft. Buy a good lock or two, be smart, be vigilant, but most of all try not to worry too much--- your new Vistabule Teardrop Trailer should be a source of enjoyment, not stress!