Buying My First Teardrop

[AstarB1]

So, my husband and I have been itching to buy a teardrop trailer for over a year now. We rented a Little Guy (5-Wide) last year and are renting another Little Guy in August (6-Wide) and a Silver Shadow (5x10) in September.

Our plan is to buy our own teardrop for next year's camping season and up until recently, we figured we'd get a Little Guy and just decide on size and options. But I've started to look at some of the higher end manufacturers out there (i.e. Juno and Camp Inn - and I know there are others that I haven't even discovered yet). Now, our challenge is to decide whether to get one of the more reasonably priced, but more basic Little Guy models or to jump in feet first and get one of the higher-end trailers. We wonder if we'll be perfectly happy with the more basic kind (with the cheaper price tag), or if we'll regret not getting one with more bells and whistles and end up jonesing for higher end trailer right away.

I realize that this is a highly personal decision based on many factors, but I just thought I'd see if anyone out there has some words of advice. For instance, is it better to get a "starter" trailer first to figure out what features we'd want in a more customized trailer down the road? Is it reasonably easy to sell used trailers if we decide to upgrade later? Is there any other deciding factor (other than price) that I'm not considering?

Any opinions would be appreciated!

[grant whipp]

Well, IMHO, you are off to a good start by renting a few times (as well as a few different sizes), and you'll be able to make a much better-informed decision at the end of this camping season just by comparing those three. However, I'd like to suggest that while you are out & about THIS season, try to take in at least one of the larger Gatherings in the northeast and/or northern mid-west (looks like you'll have to cross over into 'Merica for that, tho) ... that way you can meet up with and talk to lots of owners of lots of different teardrops, see their trailers, and get feedback on what they like and don't like. The better informed you are, the happier you will be with whichever trailer you end up buying, and the more likely you will be to stick with it and fully enjoy everything this lifestyle has to offer.

Another bit of advice I'd like to pass along ... seriously consider purchasing your future teardrop from a builder/mfg. who actually and actively participates in the lifestyle ... they will be much more understanding of your particular needs/wants, and since they actually use their products in real-world situations, they will also be better equipped to help steer you away from potential pitfalls or problem areas (design & construction-wise).

Good Luck with your search, and above all, Happy Camping!

CHEERS!

[Shadow Catcher]

X2 what Grant said Buy from some one who uses tears. I will also suggest coming to a gathering (Tearjerkers) and seeing what others have.

[bc toys]

ya what Grant said we love camping and learning Heck Grant might be the one you might want to talk to about building you a trailer he does do nice work (I've camped with him and seen his work) well good luck with what ever you decide to do

[PKCSPT]

See above.
I will say mine is about as basic as they come and I love it.

[Kharn]

You can always add more features, but stretching a tear is a little hard once it is built, so make sure you're happy with the size.
Materials are important, the high-end manufacturers build the entire structure to be water-resistant even if the skin fails, while some of the low-end manufacturers use products which can have problems if the skin leaks.

[bobhenry]

The EX and I are big folks and we went 5'6" x 10' and have never regretted it. I do pull this 1800 pounds with a full size pickup so the tow vehicle is a factor. I built mine from scrap and salvage for $800 + and I have just as much fun as the 15,000 dollar guys

[Law Dawg (Ret)]

Another bit of advice I'd like to pass along ... seriously consider purchasing your future teardrop from a builder/mfg. who actually and actively participates in the lifestyle ... they will be much more understanding of your particular needs/wants, and since they actually use their products in real-world situations, they will also be better equipped to help steer you away from potential pitfalls or problem areas (design & construction-wise).

My wife and I have been looking at the Nest Egg for light weight and size but are not done with our homework yet. The idea of purchasing from a cottage builder (like yourself) is a consideration but don't have a clue of the quality etc. Perhaps a list of recommended manufacturers would be helpful. I'll also be keeping an eye on the regional meets for an up close look at some of these gems.

[AstarB1]

Thanks so much, everyone. All good points. Funny that attending a gathering has come up, as this was a recent topic on http://tinyyellowteardrop.blogspot.com. I'd like to attend one, but I was concerned about not having a teardrop to camp in at the gathering (chicken and egg scenario). Now I'm certain I'll have to check one out!

[PKCSPT]

We don't care if your in a tent, teardrop or camper really. We just want to be outside having fun.

[dogscats]

It's good that you are looking around. I have look at some little trailers that where a few years old .I look at them in a different light . look great when new. If you can look at the trailers after some use . look out for bait and switch with some builders put one price then it be 50 too a 100% more get everything in writing even the screws that they might use. Even if they are a good old boy
I call one builder just to see what his prices where. On his web sight where one price but was told they be much high price.after telling him no thank tou.Was told the prices where just to get people to call

[AstarB1]

Hmmm...all very interesting! Thanks again, all!

[AstarB1]

We don't care if your in a tent, teardrop or camper really. We just want to be outside having fun.

Thanks! I did get that impression...I'm looking into one semi-close to me that I can make it to!