DIY Feature - Tom Drake Updated

DIY Features

Sep 5

After stumbling upon Wander Tears, Tom and his wife thought about purchasing a custom teardrop. Ultimately, they decided to take on a DIY project and build their own.

Tom started building his own DIY Vaga in San Diego, California.

What made you want to build a tiny camper?

My wife and I were seriously looking at purchasing one but with the long lead time and cost I thought what the heck I'll build my own and save a little money.

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

I think the old cliché "Jack of all trades master of none" would best describe my skill level. I have done some woodworking and have a good understanding of 12v wiring, I have no metalworking skills so I had a friend build my frame.

What was the first step in your build?

Stumbling across WT and purchasing their plans.

What was your favorite part of the build?

Wiring and seeing the aluminum go on.

What was the most difficult part of the build?

I would have to say the hatch. Not necessarily the construction but the installation, the hurricane hinge, the handle, the struts. I must have dry fitted it a dozen times

How long did it take you?

6 months so far.

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

I’m coming in right around $13K.

Would you do anything differently?

Nothing comes to mind.

What has been the best part of owning a tiny camper?

The minable prep time when its time to get out on an adventure. Being able to get to some pretty remote places, and have all our gear in a compact unit. Having such a comfortable space to retreat to when weather gets a bit spicy.

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

Get a set of plans or a kit and take it slow. Use the resources on WT's site, Facebook.

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

I would have not been able to build my teardrop without them.

Have you made any post-build upgrades or modifications?

I did and a port so I can plum in a diesel heater, I added a nice shelf in the cabin. My biggest mod. was redoing my fenders and step to be able to run 33” wheels/tires.

Has your teardrop camper sparked any memorable encounters or unexpected conversations on the road?

Nothing memorable. With the few interactions we have had, everyone has been blown away that it was home built.

Now that you’ve spent more time using the camper, what feature or design choice are you most proud of?

I absolute love the classic lines of your design. Cindy and I are amazed how well we both sleep in it. I am extremely proud that I built such a beautiful TD and equipped it the way I did. It really works well for Cindy and I. Probably to much information, but I think you guys can relate. It doesn’t get much better than showering and do your business out under the open sky’s! Lol…