Before you convert a cargo trailer into a cargo camper, you need to decide how you will be using the camper.
If you want to convert a cargo trailer into a cargo camper, one of the first things is cargo is to ask yourself – how will you be using it. In other words, what types of camping will you be doing? If you don’t plan on going off-grid then you may not need an expensive solar system. If you plan to only camp in campgrounds with bath-houses, then you may not need to install in a bathroom and shower. If you plan on camping on extremely rough terrain, then you will want a heavy duty off road trailer.
Then ask yourself what are all the things that you absolutely have to have in your camper. Many people suggest camping in their camper when it is unfinished and just a shell of what it will be. Then you can really see what you use, what you need and how much space you will need in your camper.
For example since we camp mostly at places that have restrooms and a bathhouse, our camper does not have a bathroom. We have an emergency potty bucket and a outside shower.
We designed our kitchen out the back of the camper because we cook and eat outside. So knowing what you will be putting in the camper will also help determine what size trailer you need.
Can my truck pull this size trailer
If you really want to know how to convert a trailer into a camper, you also have to consider what it will take to pull it. You also need to be sure that your tow vehicle can comfortably pull the weight after your camper is built.
Once you have made it to this point it’s time to do some drawings. I made some rough sketches of
different layouts, then I chose the one I liked best and made some dimensioned drawings to see what I
could fit in my build. I started with a bed that was big enough and then designed everything else around
it and in relation to it. I then designed my cabinets, lighting, and window placement.
Once you are comfortable with the design it’s time to start the build. I started by removing the
plywood from the walls and cutting the outer metal skin for my window . My windows were big enough
that I had to cut through a stud, so I had to add frame members over and under the windows to support
the loose stud ends.
My build has a false wall, so I framed, insulated, wired and covered that with plywood next. I also built a
wall at the nose of the trailer from the top of the base cabinets to the ceiling to get rid of the curvature
in the wall so I could install cabinets.
I then insulated the walls and ceilings with Styrofoam panels, which I cut snugly
enough to force fit into place. Then I reinstalled the plywood on the walls, marking and cutting out the
openings for the windows as I went. I also installed the wiring in the walls for switches and outlets as I
closed things in.
Then I built the stationary box part for my couch/bed. After this was done I set the flooring, then the
ceiling, then I covered the walls with FRP panels and set all my cabinets. I then built the counter top and
the sliding portion of the bed frame.
All of my water and electric lines run from the back to the front of the trailer along the ceiling at the side
walls, so I built and installed an enclosure for those.
Then I did the varnishing and painting, installed the sink, curtain rods, and some hooks, and also
finished the carpentry items in the rear outdoor kitchen of the trailer. Then I installed the water heater
and the air conditioner and refrigerator, and was pretty much ready to go camping.
Everyone’s build is unique and it is important to keep in mind that you should build what works for you. If you don’t need solar – then skip it. Why put something in the camper that you won’t use?
Below are some Youtube videos for inspiration.
