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rn09's avatar
rn09
Explorer
Aug 28, 2014

Enclosed trailer to be camping trailer?

I have been shopping for a used 2005 - 07 Keystone Outback 21rs but they cost around 10k to 13k from where I live. Yesterday, crossing this web site and I saw v-nose enclosed trailer. Can I make it to be camping trailer? I don't need all the fancy just wanted it simple for family of 4 (two adults + two kids)

1. Can I make two window doors, one on each side?
2. Just need a portable AC, a small frig which I already owned.
3. For sleeping, we lay out two queen mattress and we are set.

trailer

It costs less than 4k brand new.

Any experiences, commends on this?

19 Replies

  • Seen them, and have no problems with them.

    Just one small caveat: Some parks require a factory built RV. It is an insurance thing. Not many do but it might be worth checking into in your area.

    If you are going to do any campground hosting, a lot of those positions require a factory built.
  • DutchmenSport wrote:
    ....
    They used cots for beds, a stand alone Coleman camp stove, a stand alone port-a-potty, hung a bar across the front for clothes, used Tupperware style totes for their clothing and food, all stacked nicely like dresser drawers, a folding card table and umbrella collapsible style chairs. They had an electric cooler (not a refrigerator), they could plug in outside or inside. Everything was completely portable, movable, and on a whim, it all could be emptied out and used for any cargo needs.

    ...


    This is exactly what I had in minds. I have all of those things since I sold my pop-up two years ago. And ofcourse, TV for the boys is a must have at night :)

    Taking advice from Trackrig. I am looking for the used.
  • Just make sure that the doors can be opened from the inside and not locked shut from the outside.
  • IMO: I would just look for an older/cheaper used travel trailer. In the end, the "real" camper will be a lot nicer and more practical for camping.

    I've even saw U-Haul trailers at campsites...

    I would also recommend looking at "work n play" trailers.
  • Sure, it's a cost effective way to try things out while you're young. You can save more money by getting a used one. There are usually quit a few of them that come and go for use with snow machines, 4 wheelers, side by sides, dirt bikes, etc. Look on Craig's list. With a used one, you can resell it for only a small lose if you want to switch to a regular trailer later.

    Bill
  • I have seen folks use covered utility trailers for campers several times. I think the most simple one I saw was a 25 foot size covered utility style trailer that had the double door that swung out (not down like a ramp) and a side door for access.

    They used cots for beds, a stand alone Coleman camp stove, a stand alone port-a-potty, hung a bar across the front for clothes, used Tupperware style totes for their clothing and food, all stacked nicely like dresser drawers, a folding card table and umbrella collapsible style chairs. They had an electric cooler (not a refrigerator), they could plug in outside or inside. Everything was completely portable, movable, and on a whim, it all could be emptied out and used for any cargo needs.

    They had a Quick Shade for an awning, hung patio lights, and ran a couple 100 foot extension cords to power everything. They towed with a smaller pick-up truck that was loaded with bicycles and kids toys.

    Those folks laughed, played, had a fire, kids ran around had a great time and everyone could not have been happier. Weather was great, and they were parked in an all shade campsite.

    At night, they left both doors open and hung a mesh screen to keep bugs out.

    So you know, your idea is very, very possible. You can do it and won't have to spend a bunch if you simply use tent camping equipment, and instead of putting up a tent, just use the trailer.

    Little by little, if you want, you can begin to install more permanent fixtures, but if you want to get going right away .... well ... here's a possible solution that won't break the bank! Good luck.

    Edit: if you go this simple route, it would not hurt to bring along a pup-tent or small 4 person tent to set-up also. This will give you a "garage" to put stuff if you happen to get caught in the rain, or just want to put stuff up for a while. Also, makes for a great spot to put that port-a-potty. AND ... remember to bring along that lightweight flat screen television with a rabbit ear antenna. After all ... camping in the wild is really "rough" you know!
  • If you can't afford a factory made one, and are handy, I would do it in a heart beat.
    Get all the dimensions, and then design the interior on paper to scale and then go for it.
    Good luck

    Jack L
  • People do it but you will be at about $5,000 or more when done. I would look for a used TT because it will give you so much more such as holding tanks, furnace, insulation, frig, and overall better acceptance at campgrounds. BUT remember when shopping any RV.....WATER DAMAGE.
    I know an rv entrance door is about $400 to $500. Cheap roof vent is $100, propane frig $1200