Don’t Build a Camper Without Knowing These 10 Crucial Steps
Thinking about building your own teardrop camper? Before you dive in with your tools and YouTube tutorials, we’ve got one thing to say:
Don’t build a camper without knowing this…
We’ve spent years building and helping others build off-road-ready teardrop trailers, and there are some steps that can make or break your build—literally.
Whether you're planning your first DIY camper or gearing up for your next one, here are the 10 steps you need to get right (and a free resource at the end to make it easier).
Step 1: Start with a Solid Trailer Frame
This is the foundation of your entire build. If your frame is off, everything else will be too.
What to look for:
Strong welds
Square corners
Proper suspension
Heavy-duty tires and axle (especially for off-road use)
👉 This is one area where you don’t want to cheap out. Splurge here. Your camper is only as good as what it rides on.
Step 2: Waterproof the Floor Like Your Life Depends On It
Okay maybe not your life, but definitely your camper’s.
Our go-to setup:
Oil-based fence paint, Raptor Liner, or marine epoxy
RV underlayment on the underside
Repeat after us: Waterproof. Waterproof. Waterproof.
Step 3: Build Cabinets Before You Install
Trust us on this one—doing everything you can before installation will make your life 10x easier later.
Why it matters:
Caulking is easier
Installing countertops is simpler
You’re able to hide screws and pocket holes
Step 4: Add Ledges to Your Walls
Want your camper assembly to feel like clicking together puzzle pieces?
Create ledges:
On the bottom of your walls (to sit on the floor)
On the top of your walls (so the roof has something to sit on)
Game-changer.
Step 5: Plan Your Assembly Like It’s LEGO Technic
Measure twice. Cut once. Then measure again.
Have a detailed plan or cut list. Keep your fasteners, measurements, and steps organized. There are a lot of parts involved in a camper build—planning will save your sanity.
Step 6: Make That Roof Curve Smooth
Want that sleek curved roof?
Use:
1/8" or 3mm plywood
Add insulation underneath to help with rigidity and comfort
That thin plywood bends nicely and gives your roof the shape and strength it needs.
Step 7: Build a Strong Hatch or Regret It Later
The hatch is one of the trickiest parts of a teardrop camper, and it will bow if not done right.
Pro tip: Use your wall as a stencil for your hatch ribs—or use a CNC machine if you have access. Build it strong from the start and you won’t be chasing leaks down the road.
Step 8: Finish the Exterior With Aluminum
We’ve tried all kinds of finishes. One thing is clear: Aluminum wins.
Why aluminum:
Durable
Lightweight
Waterproof
Looks amazing
It’s worth the investment. Period.
Step 9: Don’t Overthink Electrical—Just Install Solar
You’ll want power. And if you’re building it anyway, go ahead and install solar from the start.
Solar keeps your batteries topped up and lets you stay off-grid longer. Pair it with a quality battery system, a fuse panel, and a solar charge controller for a killer setup.
Step 10: Finish Strong. Seal It Right
Use RV sealant. Not silicone. Here’s why:
Silicone dries hard and cracks over time
RV sealant stays flexible and moves with temperature changes
It’s the small things like this that make the difference between a watertight build and a soggy mess.
Bonus: Want Our Free Cost Breakdown Spreadsheet?
We’ve compiled a full breakdown of our exact parts and materials (with links) to save you time and budget headaches.
👉 Grab it HERE
Final Thoughts
Building your own camper is an incredibly rewarding project—but it comes with its fair share of challenges. These 10 steps are based on years of trial, error, and successes on (and off) the road.
If you’re serious about building a camper that lasts, follow these steps and don’t cut corners. Grab a set of our DIY Plans and join the community!
And if you want to learn more, we’re always sharing build tips, walkthroughs, and behind-the-scenes on Instagram, YouTube, and right here on the blog.
Tag us @wandertears if you’re building—we’d love to cheer you on!
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