Teardrop vs Squaredrop Trailers
Camping with a trailer is a great adventure for couples that want to get away from the world and enjoy some alone time in nature. But what sort of camper should you get? Are traditional squaredrop campers the best option, or should you go with a contemporary teardrop model?
Teardrop Vs. Squaredrop Trailers.
The biggest argument when choosing the best shape camper for your travels is between the squaredrop and teardrop trailer. Many young campers immediately go for the aesthetic teardrop and see the benefits of this alternative design. However, other experienced campers prefer to stick with the squaredrop models. One isn’t definitively better than the other, so we must look at the pros and cons of teardrop and squaredrop trailers.
Why Are Camping Enthusiasts Turning To Teardrop Trailers?
There are three common reasons why campers love teardrop models. They are:
– the aesthetics
– the aerodynamic shape
– the outdoor kitchen area
Many younger campers, especially child-free couples, like the look of teardrop campers over the standard squaredrop shape. The design looks like something out of a romantic Hollywood movie with sleek curves and mid-century appeal. With the right material, such as a bright chrome, or a unique paint job, they can look amazing. Campers can then tow them to secluded spots with ease and enjoy a cozy retreat.
An added benefit of that curved design is that it makes the trailer more aerodynamic on the road. This will reduce drag and make it easier to reach the campsite without wasting fuel. The lightweight of the trailers helps too. They are generally between 2500 and 4000 lbs., making them easy to hitch to a car.
The interior design of these campers can be quite simplistic and cute. Couples can sleep in the bed, look at the stars from the window, and get away from the world. However, the best teardrop campers have another “room” that pops out from the back. These built-in kitchens are a lot of fun, especially when they are well-equipped with a stovetop, fridge, and additional storage. With the right awning and folding chairs, this is a great place for alfresco dining.
What Are The Downsides Of Teardrop Trailers?
While there is something romantic about camping in one of these fun teardrop campers, they aren’t perfect. Important drawbacks include the following.
– a lack of headroom
– external living areas
– they can get expensive
The problem with this sort of sleek camper is that they aren’t as practical for long camping trips in the wilderness. The compact shape does mean limited headroom and storage. You can get cozy in a minimalist space but don’t expect too many conveniences or the ability to stand up straight.
This is where the novelty of the outdoor kitchen could wear off after a while. Do you want to have to get dressed and head into the cold and rain every time you want to eat? The same goes for taking a shower. Most teardrop trailers don’t have any form of plumbing or sanitary conveniences, which ruins the romance a bit. This also means no toilet. So, unless you have a portable one in the trunk, you need to camp near public facilities or rough it in the woods.
As for the cost, there are many designers taking advantage of this trend and selling classic-looking trailers for 5-figure sums. They might look worth it on the outside, but will you get enough use from them to make it worthwhile?
Could Squaredrop Trailers Be The Better Choice?
If these issues sound like too much hassle for your relaxing campervan vacation, it might be better to go for a squaredrop camper instead. These are the more old-fashioned boxy models, and they have been around for a long time with good reason. The potential benefits here are as follows.
– more headroom
– more storage space
– a more rugged design
While these may not look as nice or have the same aerodynamics on the road, they are a more roomy piece of accommodation. The capacity of this larger box is significant and allows for more than just extra headroom. It can be more comfortable when setting up a place for couples to sleep and allows for more storage. This is ideal for those with a lot of equipment to deal with.
Furthermore, that enhanced internal space means room for a kitchen and bathroom. The kitchen isn’t going to be any better than the fun pop-up one on the teardrop, but at least it is right by the bed on a rainy day. As for the bathroom, it may be basic, but at least it exists.
Another benefit is that these campers tend to be more durable, both in terms of their structure and wheels. Teardrops are generally marketed to the casual camper that isn’t going too far off the grid. Squaredrops may be heading down rougher tracks. So, if you are keen on something rugged with longevity, this may be the better choice.
Teardrop Vs. Squaredrop Trailers: Which Is Best?
There are pros and cons to both squaredrop and teardrop campers. The best choice comes down to personal needs and preferences. If you are drawn in by the minimalist approach of camping in a trailer and prefer something compact, the teardrop could be a lot of fun. Just be prepared to pack light and go without some creature comforts for a while.
You might have a more comfortable time in a squaredrop trailer, especially if you are older and more experienced. That extra headroom and the option of internal kitchen and bathroom features make it more of a home away from home. You lose the aesthetics and aerodynamics, but how much does that matter compared to the other long-term benefits and added durability?
Weigh up the pros and cons for yourself, discuss them with your camping partner, and see which style works best for you. From there, you are sure to find a model with the looks, capacity, features, and price tag to meet your requirements.