Why convert a cargo trailer into a camper – rather than buy a travel trailer

The interest in camping and RV purchases has risen over the years. In fact, it’s so popular now that you may even have to wait to order a camper. However, some people are going a different route and rather than purchasing a traditional travel trailer, they are converting a cargo utility trailer into their own tiny custom camper. We’ve done it ourselves and it is becoming more and more popular. So in this article, I will list 10 reasons why to convert a cargo trailer into a camper – rather than buy a travel trailer.

Why convert a cargo trailer – It’s Less expensive than a travel trailer

Right now, you can probably buy a small cargo trailer for around $5,000 to $7,000. How much you spend to customize it is up to you. We spent $3,000 on our build, but we kept it pretty simple. If you want to add bells and whistles, add solar, etc, plan on spending more.
It’s Easier to park since it’s smaller

You won’t see too many drivers struggling to park their cargo campers. They are so tiny, they are easy to park.
It’s Completely Custom

Build to your needs This is probably one of the biggest reasons why to build you own camper. Want a camper that can haul a boat – you can build it. Want a camper to haul a kayak – you can build it. It’s completely custom – you design what you want.
It’s Lighter to tow

This means Cha-Ching -BIG SAVINGS on fuel costs. It is also less overall wear and tear on your tow vehicle. You still need to be mindful of how much your trailer weighs and the tow capacity of your towing vehicle.
Why Convert a Cargo Trailer – It’s Stealthy

I love it when people come up to us and say, “OMG is that a camper?” But if we want to lay low we can easily blend it and often go unnoticed as a camper. Most people just see a utility trailer. Our only clues are the windows and our collection of stickers where we’ve traveled on the back doors.
Why Convert a Cargo Trailer – It’s Better constructed

Okay may be some argument about this one, but most people today complain about the quality build of travel trailers. If you build you own, you know exactly what to expect.
It Gets better gas mileage

This goes along with lighter to tow – Cha-CHING – more change in your wallet.
Why Convert a Cargo Trailer –You don’t need insurance

Technically you don’t need insurance for a travel trailer either, but since the camper is less expensive you will spend less if you decide to purchase insurance.

9. It’s Less obtrusive

Since the cargo camper isn’t that large, it can fit in your driveway and you don’t need a special place to store it when it’s not in use.

10.Why Convert a Cargo Trailer – There are More campsites available to park

Our camper is so small that it will fit in most tent sites. This means we can normally always find a campsite, unlike the 37’ rigs that need larger sites.

So there you have it – 10 reasons why to convert a cargo trailer into a camper.

Keep in mind, this is not for everyone. Some people prefer the larger footprint of a trailer, and who can blame them? But to be honest, when we go camping, we are hardly even inside the camper. Basically we just sleep in it. And since we normally only camp at places where there is a bathhouse – we don’t really need a bathroom and shower. In fact, an emergency bucket suits us just fine.

So if you are considering the idea of converting a cargo trailer into a custom camper, then be sure to do your research. Here is a related article on what to look for before you purchase a cargo trailer to convert.

Check out our YouTube Page for more information for more about cargo trailer conversions

There are tremendous advantages to making your own custom camper. However, there are disadvantages too. The bottom line is that you really need to figure out what is best for you and the way you plan on using your camper.

Be sure to check out our youtube page for videos on our cargo conversion and travels.