DIY Feature - Branden Stephenson
Branden has always wanted to explore the natural beauty of the US, but his son is the one who is finally getting him to do it.
They built their teardrop in Wichita, KS using our DIY Vaga plans. Here’s some insight on their build!
What made you want to build a tiny camper?
I’ve always had a strong desire for exploring the natural wonders of our country, but my son’s desire to to the same and to build something to do it in is what pushed me over the edge of the decision cliff.
What was your experience level with the skills required to build a camper (wood working, electrical, metal work, etc.) when you started?
My family has been DIY since I was a kid. I grew up working in my dad’s tool and die machine shop where I learned all kinds of different skills from fiberglass, wood working, metal forming, machining and a little bit of welding.
What was the first step in your build?
Buying the plans from WanderTears and then modifying them to a slightly larger size and adding a few features that we wanted to incorporate.
What was your favorite part of the build?
Hard to pick one. Every aspect of the build had its challenges and satisfaction, but standing the walls was certainly the first point that it “felt” like a camper.
What was the most difficult part of the build?
Again, hard to pick one, but we have the most anxiety about waterproofing. Building and installing the hatch accurately enough to make sure it closed tight enough certainly made us sweat a bit.
How long has it taken you so far?
I believe we started welding the frame in July 2022 and between my work schedule and my kid’s school and sports schedules, we were travel ready in February 2023. But are you ever “done” with a project like this? We have an awning to add, just working out the best way to mount it.
If you're comfortable sharing, what was the total cost of the build?
I believe total cash outlay was $8,200, but that includes solar panel and chargers, a 12v cooler and we added almost two feet in length, a foot in width and about 10in in height. We also did not skimp on drawer slide hardware.
Would you do anything differently?
I would have spent more time on the FB build page and watched a few more videos. Like with any project, you learn so much from just doing it, you’re ALWAYS going to realize there was a better way or say “I wish I’d have known about that BEFORE I did it.” That’s just the nature of DIY.
What are you most looking forward to?
Flexibility of travel. Getting to remote locations without the demand of months ahead reservations. Adventure.
Any tips for someone that wants to build a tiny camper but doesn’t know where to start?
Buy the plans. Review the build pages on FB. Ask questions. The Teardrop community of DIYers are more than willing to answer questions.
How did using Wander Tears DIY plans and having the resources provided affect your build process and time?
Gave us some needed direction on build strategy and order of steps GREATLY reduced our anxiety about waterproofing and was an excellent resource for sourcing of electrical components.
“Travel is an investment in yourself.”
Looking to build a DIY Teardrop Trailer of your own? Check out our detailed DIY plans to get started now and adventuring sooner!