DIY Feature - Joel & Melissa DeJong
After tent camping for over 20 years, they got really tired of cooking and packing up in the rain, and sleeping on an air mattress that never stayed inflated. The teardrop just seemed like a perfect fit to keep the cozy tent feeling but upgrade on sleeping and cooking arrangements.
Joel and Melissa started building their own DIY Vaga in South Carolina.
What made you want to build a tiny camper?
We have been tent campers for over 20 years and loved it but we got really tired of cooking and packing up in the rain, fighting elements in a tent, and sleeping on an air mattress that never stays inflated. The teardrop just seemed like a perfect fit to keep the cozy tent feeling but upgrade on sleeping and cooking arrangements.
What was your experience level with the skills required to build a camper (wood working, electrical, metal work, etc.) when you started?
I am pretty comfortable with doing wood working projects but had little to no experience with electrical systems or metal working. Luckily it was pretty easy to figure out once I ask around and did some research.
What was the first step in your build?
After much research, we came across Wander Tears trailers and loved the design. When we found that your base was only about a 2hr drive away, we made the trip to look a the campers first hand loved what we saw. We then immediately bought the plans and set out to build our own.
What was your favorite part of the build?
Definitely finally wheeling it out of the garage for the first time and being done with the build.
What was the most difficult part of the build?
Electronics.
How long did it take you?
4 months in total.
How much did it cost?
It was probably right around 6k all in.
Would you do anything differently?
We went with the Ironton trailer frame from northern tool but had numerous problems with the quality and fitment of metal. We definitely either buy a custom built trailer or one from Wander Tears if we had to do it again.
What has been the best part of owning a tiny camper?
So far towing is a breeze and setting up camp is as simple as throwing chalks under the tires.
Any tips for someone that wants to build a tiny camper but doesn’t know where to start?
Research what types are out there and what will fit your needs before jumping in and buying the furst thing you see.
How did using Wander Tears DIY plans and having the resources provided affect your build process and time?
Invaluable. There is no way i could have built the quality trailer we now have without the plans.
“Daring to plunge into the unknown may very well land you in paradise.” ”
Looking to build a DIY Teardrop Trailer of your own? Check out our detailed DIY plans to get started now and adventuring sooner!