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What are Teardrop Campers? and Are they Worth the Price Tag

Updated: 4 days ago

Looking for a small towable RV you can take along on your adventures? A teardrop trailer may be just what you need.


aluminum teardrop trailer

If you've ever wondered what is the smallest RV in the market? Well, one answer is a teardrop trailer. Although they have been around for a very long time, teardrop campers have recently increased in popularity because of their compact size and easy towability. Perfect for couples, small families, and seasonal RVers, teardrop trailers are a great way to enjoy an authentic camping experience while still enjoying some comforts of a bigger motorhome.


But what are teardrop campers exactly? How much do they cost? and what is the best teardrop trailer in the market? Read on to learn the answers to these questions and more.



What is a Teardrop Camper?

A teardrop camper is a small trailer that can be hitched behind a car (Your Honda Accord, Civic, or Toyota can tow this camper!) and easily towed anywhere. The trailer is named 'teardrop' because of its shape; round on one end and tapered on the other. Teardrop campers are lightweight, agile, and usually sleep two people. They normally have a small indoor/outdoor galley kitchen. Most teardrop trailers do not have a bathroom but larger teardrop trailer floorplans can sleep more people and may even include a bathroom.


interior teardrop camper

Teardrop campers have grown in popularity because they are easy to tow and can be taken along on shorter camping trips. They are also easy to park at state and national parks where parking space is limited and it is difficult to maneuver larger motorhomes. Their low impact on the environment, fuel efficiency, and ability to be towed almost anywhere makes them a great choice for adventure camping, boondocking, and quick trips.



How Much Does a Teardrop Trailer Weigh?

Most teardrop trailers weigh between 500 and 3,000 pounds, but some custom designs can also weigh up to 4000 pounds. The average teardrop trailer weight is closer to 1,500 pounds which means you don't need a larger SUV or truck to tow them. Earth Traveler T250LX is the lightest teardrop trailer, it weighs only 298 pounds.


How Much Does a Teardrop Camper Cost?

Teardrop camper prices can range from $5,000 to more than $20,000, depending on their size and amenities. Small campers can range from $5,000 to $10,000, midsized campers are between $10,000 to $15,000, and larger trailers start at $20,000 and go up from there. Used teardrop campers for sale are usually less expensive but only just because these trailers hold their value well.


Can you Build a Teardrop Trailer?

DIYing a teardrop trailer is not only possible but can actually be more cost-effective as well. You can easily purchase a teardrop trailer frame and build your camper around it. If you're finding it difficult to source all the teardrop trailer parts, you can easily buy DIY teardrop trailer kits that have everything you need to build your custom teardrop camper.



Are Teardrop Campers Worth it?

Teardrop trailers may seem expensive for what they really are; a bedroom on wheels. But the hefty price tag is because teardrop trailer manufacturers custom-build these campers. This also means you have the freedom to pick and choose the features you want in your camper. Here are some pros and cons of buying teardrop campers.


boondock teardrop camper

Pros of Buying Teardrop Trailers

  • You get a custom-made trailer that is just right for your needs

  • Better materials and built as compared to standard RVs

  • Freedom to pick and choose add-ons and amenities

  • Better off-road capabilities

  • Innovative use of space, no wasted living space

  • Retention of value, better resale

Cons of Buying Teardrop Campers

  • Not built for extreme weather

  • Most teardrops don't have a bathroom

  • Less head and foot room

  • Not built for larger families

  • Limited availability of trailers in the market and long overturn times

  • Expensive

Best Teardrop Campers for Sale

If you're looking for a teardrop trailer for sale, our list of the best campers can help you out.


Best Budget Teardrop Trailer

If you're looking for a teardrop camper that has all the basic amenities but doesn't break the bank then Hatchling by Casual Turtle is the right choice for you. The camper costs just over $6000 and has enough room for installing a bed and then some. You can customize the trailer to your liking and at 840 lbs it can be easily towed by a car.

interior teardrop trailer

Best Off-Road Teardrop Trailer

The best teardrop offroad camper needs to be lightweight, strong, and durable. TCTeardrops "Overland" Trailer covers all these boxes and more. This fully customizable trailer costs around $7,400 and comes in five sizes; the smallest version measures 4×8 feet and the largest model measures 5×10 feet. The standard model features sleeping room for two, 12V accessory outlets, LED lighting, a rear galley with shelves and slide-out table, and a cabin storage cabinet.

teardrop trailer for sale

Best Luxury Teardrop Trailer

They may have less space but that doesn't mean teardrop trailers need to be any less luxurious. Little Guy Max proves that you can have a smaller environmental footprint without giving up on comfort and luxury. The trailer weighs just over 3000 pounds and is equipped with living quarters, a kitchenette, and a wet bath. Inside the teardrop camper, you will also find an entertainment center, fridge, microwave, AC, and dinette.

teardrop camper with bathroom

The Last Word

If you're looking for an authentic camping experience out in the wilderness without giving up a cozy bed then a teardrop trailer is perfect for you. It is lightweight, easy to tow, and can be taken along anywhere you want easily. It might not be fit for long-term camping, but it can make your seasonal RV trips all the more fun.



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