Pros & Cons of Teardrop Trailers

Aside from Airstream travel trailers, teardrop trailers may be one of the more recognizable and uniquely designed RVs. The signature shape features a large, rounded front section that tapers toward the back of the rig. Originating in the 1930s during the Great Depression as job seekers traveled around to find work, teardrop trailers became hugely popular in the late 1940s as people began building their own versions. Today, the teardrop trailer is experiencing a resurgence in popularity again, for several reasons. For one, the teardrop is a great starter RV and many people who have tent camped for years get teardrops to break into the RV lifestyle. These rigs are also great for single travelers and couples who want the flexibility to just pick up and hit the road whenever the mood strikes.

Let’s explore a few other pros (and cons) of teardrop trailers.

Pros

Teardrop trailers are:

• Lightweight and easily towed – Some teardrop trailers are as light as 1,000 pounds! That means that some versions can be towed by many vehicles, not just trucks or SUVs. In fact, compact cars and even motorcycles can tow some teardrops!
• Versatile – If you’re looking for flexibility when camping and you want to explore some areas that may be off-limits to larger RVs, then a teardrop may be right for you. Because these trailers are lightweight and can be towed easily, they can be taken into remote areas. Try boondocking near a secluded lake or setting up camp in a desert mountain campground.
• Easy to store – Some teardrops can fit into a garage, which makes them suitable RV options for people whose homeowner’s associations prohibit RVs being parked near homes and in driveways.

Cons

When it comes to disadvantages, teardrops:

• Are small – Tiny living is all the rage, but it’s not for everyone, even if just for a weekend camping trip. Teardrops offer a lot in the way of versatility and flexibility but living quarters can be tight and there is little storage space.
• Have no bathrooms – These rigs often don’t have bathrooms, so unless you travel with a portable potty, road shower, or other accessories, you will have to rely on using campground facilities or properly disposing of waste in the wild.
• Don’t have indoor kitchens – Some teardrops have a mini outdoor kitchen toward the back of the rig. When the weather is nice, or if you’re simply accustomed to outdoor cooking, an outdoor kitchen may not be a disadvantage. However, trying to cook in inclement weather (soggy eggs, anyone?) can be less than ideal.

While teardrop trailers may not be for every RV enthusiast, they are a wonderful option for people looking for an easy-to-maintain and tow rig. Want to learn about the RV lifestyle more? Contact us today!