DIY Feature - Dan Muladore

Features

Apr 4

Dan and his wife used to camp with tents and backpacks, but after having kids, they changed things up. Car camping worked for a while, and a rooftop tent was a good step. Now that the kids are bigger, they wanted more space. A teardrop trailer felt like the right move—still simple, but with more comfort and room.

Dan started building his own Vaga build in Michigan

What made you want to build a tiny camper?

My wife and I used to do more tent and backpack style camping, but after having kids we had to change things up. We started car camping more but still didn't love the idea of a true camper or RV. We got a rooftop tent which was great but as the kids have grown we have been looking to add more space. The teardrop seemed like the next best move. We will still be able to maintain the simple approach but now have a few more creature comforts and more space between the camper and RTT.

What was your experience level with the skills required to build a camper (wood working, electrical, metal work, etc.) when you started?

I consider myself as an amateur in most aspects but like a little challenge

What was the first step in your build?

We ordered the kit and trailer from WT.

What was your favorite part of the build?

The most satisfying had been getting the walls, cabinets and interior roof put together. It started to take shape and pushed me to keep going!

What was the most difficult part of the build?

Sourcing materials. Most the 1/8" Baltic, 3/4" extruded foam board and aluminum. I had a hard time working through the electrical mentally (since I'm a little paranoid with electrical), but once I got going it hasn't been bad.

How long did it take you?

I got my kit at the end of January and it's now the end of March. Besides a winter vacation I've spent 10-12hrs a week on it (after the kids go to bed). So probably somewhere around 100hrs.

If you're comfortable sharing, what was the total cost of the build?

I started keeping track in the beginning but after countless trips to the hardware store for little things I stopped. I'm guessing it'll be around $10,000 all in

Would you do anything differently?

I ended up using raptor liner on the bottom floor. I would recommend spraying over rolling. Felt like it would have been a heartier coat.

What are you most looking forward to?

Spending more time away from home with the family

Any tips for someone that wants to build a tiny camper but doesn’t know where to start?

It seems overwhelming but you just have to jump in. It ends up being a rewarding project that I think most people will appreciate

How did using Wander Tears DIY plans and having the resources provided affect your build process and time?

I'm pretty sure I've watched every YouTube video 15x each. The Facebook group has been super helpful as well. There have been multiple lite things that come up that you just need help working through.