I'm interested in buying a travel trailer, and I really like how basic the Fema and Cavalier trailers are. I could make modifications without having to "undo" anything, I think? I wonder are the walls strong enough to support cabinets and shelves. I mean, i couldn't hammer nails and hang them cause there's no wood in the walls is there?I'm pretty new to this, but I wanna learn! I'm a down home country girl stuck in the city trying to get out!!!!

They're pretty much a blank canvas for whatever you wanted to set up. As far as I know they are basically the same construction as a 'normal' TT, so I would think you could build one out however you wanted.

If by "FEMA" trailer you mean those surplused by the Government, you should keep in mind that despite their looks/wheels they're often NOT equipped to function as "travel trailers". Many were designed to be hauled to a location and immediately hooked up to basic household utilities. In many cases there are no holding tanks, 12 volt power systems, and/or other things one would expect on a recreational trailer. If they're lacking, having to retrofit those basics may be problematic and very likely will be expensive.Just something to bear in mind when you're shopping!

The problem you will find in hanging cabinets in a trailer not so equipped is finding studs that will support the cabinets. When manufactured, trailers are usually reinforced where cabinets will be hung. You will just be hoping there is enough strength in the walls to support a cabinet and its content. I'd shy away from any trailer that doesn't generally have what you want you in the way of cabinets...

Any RV that is built with wood construction, i.e. wood studs is easy to retrofit. To install cabinets, you'll need a nailing strip or two in the back of the cabinet. If you look at most wall hung RV cabinets, you'll find the uppers are usually fastened into the ceiling joists, as well. Screws and glue are a better alternative to a common nail.As has been posted, the FEMA trailers are not set up for camping and a good bit of retrofit is necessary to make one suitable for anything but full hookup camping.

Regardless of it being a blank slate, and as a former cabinet-maker and kitchen installer, I can tell you it's very difficult to find the studs, either aluminum, steel or wood, in most RVs. And the cheaper the RV, the worst it is. You'll have to use a combination of screws and mollies, and hope the walls are strong enough to carry the weight you locate in the cabinets. Good luck with that.

Can I hang cabinets and shelves? | Good Sam Community

12 Replies

Francesca_Knowl
Explorer
May 09, 2013
If by "FEMA" trailer you mean those surplused by the Government, you should keep in mind that despite their looks/wheels they're often NOT equipped to function as "travel trailers". Many were designed to be hauled to a location and immediately hooked up to basic household utilities. In many cases there are no holding tanks, 12 volt power systems, and/or other things one would expect on a recreational trailer. If they're lacking, having to retrofit those basics may be problematic and very likely will be expensive.

Just something to bear in mind when you're shopping!
bfourman
Explorer
May 09, 2013
They're pretty much a blank canvas for whatever you wanted to set up. As far as I know they are basically the same construction as a 'normal' TT, so I would think you could build one out however you wanted.

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Can I hang cabinets and shelves?

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