To be honest, my first reaction to the proposition of an hour-long cargo-trailer camper walkthrough wasn't a positive one, but you have won me over with your no-nonsense style, your chair in the shade, your table for doin' your thing (that's me!) your stopping everything for that long sip o' coffee when it presented itself, for your surprising organizational skills... the hanging bar, also to deploy the extra blanket... That's frickin' genius. Your narrative is both factual and humorous at the same time. This is great entertainment along with a look at some very useful ideas. Bravo, Mr. Marc. Really enjoying this video when at first I thought I might have to bail out. Thanks for your efforts. Neat rig.
Welcome to the channel! I'm blushing. lol. In the immortal words of Esteban Vihaio, the old mexican pimp in the movie Kill Bill Vol. 2, "I must warn you, I am susceptible to flattery." ... Thanks again for the lovely comment. :D
Really enjoyed this video. This is what I’d like to build. Simple and useful, not all the plumbing and all those elements to have to take care of. Load up my ebike and the dog and go find some trails and then camp for the night. Trailer still useful for cargo stuff in between. Just want to say your presentation is calm and so so relaxing to watch and hear. You have a gift for that. Thoroughly enjoyed this video. I’ll have to check out the others.
Thanks! The "do it yourself", utilitarian nature of cargo trailer campers fits myself to a T. If you can, have the tools, space and all that, the amount of satisfaction in making exactly what you want and need, is immense. I love my cargo trailer. :D
I had all but given up on my own build out and had almost quit watching these vids for ideas.... boy am I glad I caught this one! Phenomenal job, Sir! My trailer has become something of a dump hauler, as of late, as I have become the almost sole caretaker of a hoard and it's maker. I originally bought it to be a camper though and I hope to finish up my little 5 x 8 in the far future (at this point). This was very inspiring and I did already get the insulation done with my uncle's help so.... progress IS progress! Thanks again for sharing.
Good luck, Maya! Your 5x8 will wait patiently for you. It'll be there when you have the time and or inclination to get it done. Thanks for watching! :D
I have changed the kitchen counter layout once already. I think it's very good to be able to change it up as necessary. I find it curious that I have read of multiple people selling their trailer and starting a new one as opposed to just remodeling it. Thanks for watching, Jim!
Guess my 6 cyl ranger would pull this size trailer also...would be just enough for my wife and l. Love the simple solar power & enough water for a weekend. I will pay the ultimate complement & copy your example. Thanks !!!
@@camplapidary Indeed! I have a teardrop but it is really way too small for us. Looking at used cargo trailers now. ...a little bit pricey !!!! 6 × 10 seems perfect...but l am 6 feet tall....are you able to fully stand up ?
That's a good idea, Moose. Thank you. I don't mind using the recycled plastic containers. I've saved quite a few of various sizes and shapes to play with. It's just a matter of finding the perfect ones for the space and use.
Just now going through comments and am seeing your question. Once I have my 6x10 where I want it I'd like to put some effort into the 4x6 trailer. After the 4x6 is complete perhaps I'd like to try out a 5x8 size cargo camper. I think it would be interesting to purchase a new trailer, insulate and outfit it with some basics and then sell it for whatever profit. Might be a way to keep busy and make a little money..
Thank you so much for making this video. I am hoping to have my own cargo trailer to camp in and possibly even to live in within the next few years. I will definitely be on a tight budget and this is such a help for me by giving me so many ideas and so much information. Thank you again and take care
I am in the early planning stages of a cargo trailer conversion build. This video is gold for making practical, useful, efficient, and clever builds for it. Like you, I don’t want to have it become a complicated build. I thought your fold-up bed system was the most brilliant thing then you showed the super practical and smart way you built easy access to all of the internal wiring. One thing you helped answer is how to do the wiring beyond the trailer external lights. I like the use of the extension cord repurposed to running power outside of the wall to the outlets. I am now incorporating that into my build. Thank you for sharing a practical build that is not outside of most people’s abilities if they want to do this. Well done! PS - Your dog is very sweet.
Thank you! I recently purchased a larger power station and added some 12 volt wiring, again using mostly old power cords attached to the plywood same as the 120 volt system. Trying to keep it simple, but each addition adds a little to the complexity of the overall trailer. I guess just be sure to use proper gauge cords for your amperage and voltage consumption. Keep it simple but also keep it safe! :D
@Camplapidary - I agree about the safety. I will not do wiring above what I am safely capable to do. Do you prefer the drop down ramp door or would you like swinging barn doors in the back? I am torn between the two.
I like the ramp door because I need to load motorcycles occasionally. One of them weighs 800 pounds. Other than that I'd have barn doors or perhaps just a man door on the rear. The spring and cables of the ramp door can make things a little more difficult back there while insulating and general finish.
Nice simple setup. Seeing these small camper trailers makes me appreciate their strengths as well as their shortcomings. At roughly 60 sq ft you get a lot of function and nimbleness too. And on an incredibly small budget. Deciding to use your current Taco (I have a 04 that looks just like it) is a definite win. I decided to upgrade my truck to a 2020 Nissan Frontier 4x4 because of its higher towing capacity at over 6,300 lbs and the 4x4 too. At $23,500 with 18k miles it was the very best option I could find in June of ‘23. I am finally ready to start planning the trailer acquisition now. There are so many decisions to make. Videos, especially detailed ones like yours, are super helpful in the process. I have total respect of your frugality in your build.
Thank you, Tinymission! My main desire when going camping or rockhounding is to get remote. I'll spend hours sometimes travelling down a washboardy desert road to get to some special place that might have good rocks to find. Like you say a smaller more nimble trailer is nice to have in these conditions. My other trailer is 4'x6'. A very small enclosed trailer. I've had it since new, bought late 1990's. Worked a small handyman business out of it for years, pulling it with my 2002 Tacoma. Camping out of the 4x6 makes the 6x10 seem huge! 23.5k for a modern truck? Downright cheap if you compare to new Chevy or GMC at 50k to 90k new. I've considered going bigger now that my everyday driving is down to almost nothing. Thought about an older Toyota Sequoia perhaps, bigger motor, 4x4, enclosed cabin space. Might fit in good for my needs. Good luck in your trailer search and shopping! Going new? I've read so many stories and seen videos of people complaining about the ordering process and receiving trailers not as ordered.
Very well thought out! Love the storage systems! Having the bed and side shelf to fold away makes it very convient for other usage of the space while on the road! I really like your ideas of using different types of things for storage in the kitchen area! You have done a great job and saved a lot of money! I could not use the caulking that neatly lol have a fit with that stuff. I have found Flex products to be better than other products. Had a radiator on my old Jeep to crack and used the spray to seal it. Drove it for 6 months until I got a new radiator for it and never had it lead again! They make the Flex tape, spray and one type you can just paint on.
Thank you, Patricia. The main idea for fold up bed and table is to fit a motorbike in there. Or to use the cargo trailer as intended, for moving things. Haven't done either in it yet. I'm sure I will eventually. I do like to use those durable plastic containers that whatever product comes in, I wish the labels came off easier. I had an old '79 jeep wagoneer back in the day. Was a fun family vehicle.
I currently have a 4" memory foam topper on there and it's pretty comfortable. I think I would prefer a 2" topper. Eventually I'd like to get a 6" HD36 foam mattress as I can't imagine needing anything thicker and I do like that firm feeling without sinking in if you know what I mean.. :D
Hello Mark, stumbled onto your site yesterday and watched your trailer tour. I thought, this guy is doing a cargo build very much like my 6X10 Homestead trailer which I bought used about the same time you bought yours. Also like you, it is just myself and my old dog Nickie. I have insulated the Ceiling and walls but not the floor. I have the cargo doors which should work for me. (No motor cycle. I installed a nice storage box on the tongue, A.C. power inlet, solar power inlet, and I have cut out all of the panels and I am in the process of affixing them to the walls. I bought an 8 in memory foam mattress which I had planned to install in the same location you put your bed. I intended to fold it up against the wall as you have. So your Utube video was very helpful for my bed install. I bought a Bluetti EB240 which will provide all of my power. Also like you, I have decided to keep the build simple. I will use my trailer primarily as a hotel room for my dog and I . Your video is very good and enjoyable as well as informative. Thank you for posting it. You are giving me a little nudge to get going on mine!
Welcome to the channel, Craig! Glad to have you.. All of that sounds good to me, but I'd admit an 8 inch mattress must feel like a cloud! :D Have you shared your build anywhere?
I have not shared my build. I want to get it to the point where I can start using it. I travel to visit family about every 6 weeks. It is a hard long drive for both my old dog and myself. So I want to break the trip into a 2 day ride instead of a long 1 day ride. The decent hotels that will allow you to have your dog are very high $ unless you are willing to stay in a really cheap and not very nice place. So Thanks for your video. I just rewatched some of them to firm up my plan for the fold up bed . I will be copying some of your bed build!
If you ever do post it somewhere, let me know. I watch most every video I can find and look at the photo posts in the Facebook groups constantly. I wish these trailers were cheaper to pull around. Even my small 6x10 cuts my gas mileage in half roughly. For my long drives I often just bring a tent and pitch it in the desert for an overnight stay.
Mines a 2002 Pre-runner, it's given me 20+ years of reliable service and I hope for many more. Well worth the $16,000 back in the day.. Thanks for watching and the comment! :D
Hey Mark, on my second Cargo Trailer conversion build out. Like you I started out first by defining what I was going to use it for, and where and when I was intending to use it. That really helped me determine what I had to improve, modify. I took a minimalist approach. I haul my dr650, using floor mounted D rings reinforced underneath. Works great with ratchet straps. Best of luck
Hi, Bob! On your second build. May I ask why? Was the first too small? Too big? Wanted drastic design change? I have seen a few people say something like they didn't want to remodel so they just started over on a new one. Just curious... What size trailer are you rocking now? I figure I'll put some more of those heavy floor D rings eventually. Been thinking about a pop up/fold up front wheel chock as well.
@@camplapidary Hi Mark, sorry on the delayed feed back. I’m a novice when it comes to navigating around utube capabilities. Yes it was a little small for me to load the Suzuki Dr650 or Harley depending on the trip. Second build is a 5x8, BUT a +6” height (both builds are Interstate Loadrunner models) rear ramp, and side door. Took me about 180 hours to complete the build. That extra +6” in height worked out perfect. It keep my overall weight around 1750-1800 lbs (with the Dr650 loaded) easy pull for my older Toyota Tacoma
No worries, Bob. RUclips doesn't make it easy to find and respond to comments for sure. 5x8 extra tall? Sounds like a really good combination to me. Would love to see it. I sold my 500 pound bike a couple of years ago. Was a Suzuki Vstrom DL650A. Wonderful bike, was sad to see it go. Just wanted to focus more on camping and less on long bike road trips. I'll keep the Yamaha WR250R until I can't candle a 300 pound bike anymore. Hopefully that won't be for a long while to come.
@@camplapidary Hi Mark, Vstrom nice bike, but I get the small bike for convenient resupply runs. I’ll keep a eye on your posts, best of luck and good health to you, safe travels
Thanks for not opening with a blasting on a guitar , I do enjoy classic rock as a drummer , but I think of building out a cargo t. or to go camping to be relaxing . Nice truck and good camper 🙂 keep at it buddy😮
It seems pretty common on RUclips that the music in a video is way too loud. I really try to avoid this. Often I just want something upbeat that doesn't suck. Can be difficult only using Imovie music and the RUclips Audio Library. Thanks for watching and the lovely comment! :D
Hey buddy thanks for this video! Funny I also have a white Tacoma & a Springbar tent like yours! I’m looking at purchasing a similar 6x10 cargo to build but wanting to mount a roof top tent on top.. what’s your thoughts on a couple hundred lbs on top of one of these? Thanks!
Hello there! I have seen rooftop tents on cargo trailers. Just photos on the internet of course. Different trailers will be built differently. I feel like to have rooftop anything heavy, it should be built correctly. This might mean box tube construction instead of z channel walls. Maybe studs 16" on center vs 24". I'm no expert, but a good install will put the weight on the walls and not the roof. I plan on big solar for my cargo trailer roof. Rack and panels will weigh maybe 150lbs dead weight and no live weight (there is a difference). My basic trailer should be fine for the solar but I'd wonder about the weight of people up there. Does that help? :D
Thanks! Your cargo is a flat roof correct? I know some are curved… also it wouldn’t be to difficult to beef up the roof with 2x4’s to make it more load bearing and support a couple hundred lbs? I’ve been dreaming for quite a while of a clam shell roof top tent on a 6x10 cargo like yours but with access from the inside.. that of course would also involve cutting a small access hatch.. appreciate any /all insight as I am only a hobby builder with very little experience and mostly a dreamer
I bet wood studs would be fine. Might even beef up the interior plywood thickness. Yes, my trailer has flat roof with square edges. It was one of the things I was looking for. I do have an older 4x6 cargo trailer with flat roof but curved sides. Learn to weld and you could build whatever you can think up. Some good facebook groups out there, tons of ideas for any budget. I'll be taking my new welder (once I learn) to my 4x6 this summer, I want a side pop-out for sleeping.
Nice, simple, flexible choices on your build. I wish our 6x10 had a side door, but hindsight is 20/20. We only have the rear barn doors. We have a screen there, but I chose to glue the hook side to the inside frame, that way the loop edges on the screen itself are secure (gluing the hook tapes means we can still peel off the screen as needed). The primary purpose for our trailer is for teaching scuba out of, but over the past year we've done a lot to optimize all the available space for off-grid life. We currently have 200w of solar and 200ah lithium battery, but we're in the middle of upgrading to 400w of solar. Also, I really wish we had enough space for a nicer bed for the wife and myself, but having an actual breathable air compressor inside makes that impossible. We went with removable pipe berths that we just throw blankets and sleeping bags on....not even as comfy as what you have going, but better than being on the floor. I liked your moisture barrier idea. And, like you pointed out, sometimes a generator can be a great backup. We've got a tongue box where, among other things, we have a 1000w pure sine wave inverter generator. I was surprised you didn't go with a cooler-shaped 12v refrigerator--you definitely have the room for it, and you'd at least have as much room as you do now with a bunch of ice in a cooler. They're pretty reasonably priced these days. Anyway, I'm definitely envious of the V-nose on your trailer...that's another thing I wish we'd gone with. Nice job, though. I hope you get more opportunities to take it out!
Hello, and thank you for watching and commenting! I went to your RUclips page and found your 2 cargo trailer videos. Watched them both and subscribed. Very nice, you are getting it done in a small space! One upside to not having a man door is that extra wall space that you have. The diagonal battery did raise my eyebrows a bit though. I'd be worried about unnatural stresses on it. Loved the porthole. I'll be getting a compressor fridge once I upgrade to roof mounted solar and a larger power station. I've had my eye on the Bluetti AC200 Max. My budget for upgrades is miniscule though, so things take a while.. :D
@@camplapidary Thanks! And if the battery were anything other than lithium, I'd be worried, too. Plus, those Weize batteries are REALLY well made. And while the wall/shelf space was definitely great from the scuba class perspective, I think I could have adjusted if I had a side door by putting at least one smaller shelf on the door itself (foregoing a window/screen on the door like I see a lot of people do).
@@camplapidary BTW, I got the idea for the pipe berths from the GonAgain channel. Although there's are more or less permanently set up in a bunkbed-style approach, mine obviously had to be able to stow away. I slept in my berth with two of our dachshunds and I was pretty darned comfy! It's not for someone with back issues, but for everyone else it's not bad.
If you want to stack sleeping bodies, pipe berths are the way to do it no doubt. I'm glad it's comfortable, I had always wondered. I often have a hard time sleeping, especially out camping. Much of my thought and effort are devoted to figuring out a way to sleep regularly.
@@camplapidary Oh, believe me, if we had the room, I'd have gone with something like a murphy bed (given the lack of a side door) and my wife would be much happier. We do also have a couple of those foam roll-up mats that we can lay on top of the berths---but it ain't memory foam, that's for sure. I'm looking forward to any future upgrades you do to your trailer, though! Always good to see different ideas!
6x10 is a perfect size, I converter a 98 pace with only rear doors and added a boat hatch on top to let light in. My forward area has an upper bunk and couch / pull out bed and ac. Looks like your idea was to also be able to work out if it
Hi, John! Boat hatch, I like that idea. Eventually I'd like to be able to travel about a bit and still make some polished stones. Making it all happen remains elusive.. :D
Screws condensating...I think my next build will be slightly better, essentially add studs. Trailers are 1" thick walls so use 2x2, cut to wall stud height. Cut/Notch top bottom as needed about 1/2" deep so it will extend to the interior 1/2" . Glue 1/2" foam to side of existing stud then glue new stud to other side of foam but extended in the 1/2", good construction adhesive to the top bottom frame. That allows 1/2" foam on outside between wall skin and new stud providing a thermal break. Or use spray foam. The inside of old stud gets 1/2" foam over it. But new studs create a new interior surface to attach to that's not directly contacting to outside/cold. New stud has a foam thermal break to the old stud too. Now your screws have 1 1/2" of wood to attach to and shouldn't condensate. If you wanted additional insulation you can add 1/2"-1" over whole wall surface. The same method could be used for the roof, but may need to be thicker. If your roof is curved just need to math the profile. Like buy a 2x4 then cut curved top edge. Can even place the new roof ribs centered between original etc and glue foam to roof skin then new roof rib for more rigidity of roof.
I haven't had issues with the screw heads sweating since I covered them. Still get plenty of condensation on other exposed interior metal surfaces. Notably the windows and doors. Since this video I have added 2" foam board under the plywood floor to good effect and I think next summer or fall I'd add another 1" to the interior ceiling just for good measure. The trailer is pretty comfortable now but the ceiling is the weakest link now I guess. PS: I was just watching your 6x12 alum trailer review. Look like a nice trailer and project.
@camplapidary Oh haha watching mine nice...it's a really nice trailer overall. Definitely looking forward to not dealing with rust. That's really the only main reason I'm replacing my old one...rust jacking of bottom wall frame breaking through the outer Alum skin. It's bubbled all over outer edge. I DO NOT want to reskin it, those screws are not coming out anymore. Yeah there's not much that can be done about the windows/doors. One advantage to my alum frame...water won't hurt nothing really. I looked for insulated glass window but couldn't find my desired size. Just have to live with frost or condensation. I'll just plan to not use it at crazy temps. But couple yrs ago I was heading to TX and drove 6-7hrs and it was still 18⁰ that night, felt so wrong. But 2nd night made it to Southern TX and it was 50ish. Yep roof insulation is one of the best options, use as much as reasonably possible. Keeps the heat in and sun out
Hi, Jon! Thanks for the suggestion. We once stayed there, years back. Gypsy and I, on a motorbike, we toured much of the Island and tent camped at one of the sites. The mosquitos were ferocious. This was during a Perseids meteor shower, I saw the most amazing fireball that night. Excellent memories, thanks. :D
Thanks! Since this video I have put in carpet, which is nice on the feet in the cold. I would like to add a more robust solar electric system in the future. A layer in insulation under the floor might be good. I don't think there's much more I need than this! :D
Hey here from east Tenn. area. Where are you from ? Im building out a Dodge Durango R/T then next project is a 5x8 utility trailer to use both for trout & base fishing in Tn. Va. N.C. just me and my dog ( son is always busy). Life is good 🙂
Dr Lapidary! Does the screen keep out the no seeums? those devils cover my ceiling in my minivan setup I think i m using the wrong netting. A warm color led strip would be a fantastic edition in certain areas that’s a perfect space for that. The kind where you dont see those little dots just a nice uniform glow. What s your refrigeration? I got sold on the 12 volt coolers its a game changer for me not hustling melting ice anymore and the beers are really cold🍺 i remember when you first bought the trailer was raw nuthin. Come a loong happy way with it.
Hi, TD! Honestly, I can't remember ever having problems with "no see ums". Perhaps I'm not in the right areas at the right time for them? Google tells me this - In the late spring and early summer, swarms of tiny biting gnats often greet visitors to Utah's national parks. Also called "midges," "no-see-ums," "punkies," and "moose flies," these miniscule pests thrive in the scattered pinyon-juniper forests of southeast Utah. The screens seem pretty fine mesh to to me, so maybe it will keep them out. Mostly I'm just concerned with mosquitos and flies. The little video lights I have have some color adjusting features to them. I'm not artistic enough to mess with it too much.. I'll eventually get some kind of very powerful led light to use when cabbing in the trailer. I'm still using the old ice chest. I'd love to get, and will eventually, a 12 volt cooler. I want to upgrade the solar panels and power station first though. For my few short trips that I take, getting a couple of bags of ice from the local costco isn't too burdensome. Sucks to buy it from gas stations for sure. I do love this trailer, put a lot of time and effort into it. Lol, I remember sleeping in it on a piece of cardboard thrown on the floor! :D
Oof. Biting midges are the worst. Make a mosquito bite seem like child’s play. Three weeks in and you’re still scratching like it’s day one, like a non fatal form of freaking smallpox. Im glad you mentioned them. I got a trip this weekend to a place where I got wiped out last year. Guess I’m a little late ordering bee keeping equipment, as DEET doesn’t seem to phase the little bastards. I really like this spot, but FML.
Hello! I have this video where I'm driving around a bit and you can see what goes on in the trailer. ruclips.net/video/Ki0cXscOMCk/видео.html Much of my stuff goes into storage totes for travel but some things can stay in place. My trailer is front heavy I feel and so I try to stack as much in the back of the trailer as possible.
Thank you, Crow! No trouble from moisture while cooking. I always run the vent fan at least on low while I have the stove going. When it's extra cold outside and warm inside the trailer, I'll get condensation on the windows and any other exposed cold metal. But that's about it for moisture problems.
A few more wanted upgrades to the trailer, and I'll then have more to spend on gasoline for these kind of trips. Gas is definitely the biggest expense for my camping nirvana. Thanks for watching! :D
You don’t have to change the stove, just use the propane bottles with the right attachment. I have the same stove. Never use the gray tank. Would only burn gas if I absolutely had to. I’ve only ever burned propane.
I think you have a good point. I'll look around for an adapter and give it a try. I have already bought a propane stove and accessories... Just seems like having another stove propane ready might be a good thing.
Now there's a thought I had not had. Converting the gasoline to propane. In my most recent video I unboxed a new Camp Chef Everest 2X propane stove and some accessories to go with it. I hope it's more reliable than the Coleman Duel Fuel.
Hello! I use the solar panel to charge the lithium battery bank. 14:05 Then I can charge or power some small things. It can last a long time if you are frugal with your electrical consumption.
The ramp door is held open by the flip out transition plywood attached to the door that came with the trailer. I'm not sure it's exact name. Of course I have a screen back there as well.
Hello and thank you! Milage will always be affected by weight and wind resistance. I think most people I've read, believe the size of the front of the trailer affects milage the most. My gas milage goes from 18-20mpg down to 10-12mpg perhaps, pulling this 6x10. I do love this 6x10! I also have a 4x6 cargo trailer, milage hardly drops at all with it (depending on weight), though it is very small to use. I would like to try a 5x8 myself, I wonder if I could do without standing height to save some gasoline expense on longer trips.
That is exactly where I’m at.. planning on full timing it for a while and always thought I’d buy a 6x10 for the extra room And standing height but now I’m leaning towards the 5x8… I found a brand new one for $3200.. only 700 lbs… the height and width lines up nearly perfect behind my Tacoma with shell so barely any wind resistance… the only bummer is the interior height is only 4’7” so I’ll need to treat it as a larger tear drop style… will build a kitchen in the rear… I have a 6 ft awning with a tent room that should help with the small size of trailer … not sure how happy I’ll be in the long run but I do plan on traveling many miles and fuel is a concern.. also I’m planning Baja in the winter so small is good exploring those hidden beach spots … thanks for your help!
Hi Marc, i am looking into camping mattresses for our truck bed camper rig. I came across foam factory and other websites like it but am unsure. Would you say the 4inch foam would be easy enough to roll up or fold to store it? We want something flexible enough that we can roll the mattress toward the cab of the truck so that we can store things like the cooler in the rear of the truck bed without having to put it on top of the mattress itself, if that makes sense. We wont need to completely roll it up tiny or anything, just enough that it would fold to about half its actual size? or is 4 inch too thick to be foldable and maneuverable. Thanks for any advice!!
Hello! I have this video ruclips.net/video/iKmFu6vBFeI/видео.html where I unboxed the 4" foam from The Foam Factory. It might give you some insight to the size of it. I remember storing it for a while after the unboxing and it took up a large garbage bag and was poking from the top a bit. You can fold it and roll it but it never becomes very small if you know what I mean..
Hello again! :D I have mixed feelings about the ramp door. In some ways it's a royal pain in the keister. I often have thought that barn doors or no door at all would make many things much easier. The cables are the main culprit in making things difficult. Loading and unloading a motorcycle or other heavy items like a rock cutting slab saw, are the reasons I went with ramp door. I have never used it as a deck. Honestly, I don't understand the allure of the ramp door rear deck patio idea, or the roof decks I sometimes see. Roof decks all I see is an injury waiting to happen. Ramp door decks seem nice at first but if you are a minimalist cargo trailer camper you're bringing or adding things to accomplish it. Perhaps it's a bit cleaner to sit on a deck and go in and out of your trailer getting drinks or whatever, but I'm not so dirt-phobic as to worry about that. I usually want to put my chair in the shade/sun, that shade/sun might be anywhere and not on the deck. With barn doors: You can easily make a private shower/toilet space with a rod and curtain. I have seen a few window mount AC units installed on one door, seems like a good solution. Most will need to bring a ramp to load motorbikes or four wheelers, etc.
@@camplapidary yeah I’m not sure if I’d want the big ramp door. Don’t think I’d use it for anything. And I don’t need a ramp for my e-bikes so maybe the double doors would be best. I’ve seen the A/C on one door like you said and I like that idea too. Now to find a trailer for a reasonable price. That’s going to be hard.
I do like very much that I can crack the rear ramp door like shown so easily. Barn doors you'll have to figure a way to hold one or both slightly open to achieve the same effect. Good luck with your purchase, know what features you want /need. I didn't think about the drop axel until too late, but axels are relatively cheap. If going used be patient, the right trailer will come eventually.
Hi, Leston! I suppose anything is possible with the will, tools, and knowledge to make it happen. I believe the easiest and least expensive way to gain more space is to start with a larger trailer. For some reason I just like the smaller less consumptive things. :D
I'd like to do a small pop out on the side of my 4x6 cargo trailer. Just so I can sleep sideways in it and still have a bit of room to sit and cook. Should be a fun project. :D
I’m not nitpicking, but whoever installed those vents put them in backwards. What if it rains when you’re going down the highway the water will go right in.
No worries at all. These vents are commonly installed as they are on my trailer. The way the vent is constructed it is very unlikely for water to make it into the interior of the trailer. Baffles and such in there. It is thought that the air coming in high and clean on the front and leaving low out the back of the trailer reduces dust infiltration. Someday I'll take them off and reseal them, I don't like that ugly caulking around the perimeter of the vents. Thanks for watching! :D
The guy I bought the trailer from had them installed in this fashion. I think technically mine are backwards? Many camper conversions I've seen people have none at all, personally I like a little air exchange at all times.
Is it a struggle to pull? I don't feel like it is. Though I have read enough online conversations to know that many would disagree. Going up the worst grades I'm as slow as a loaded semi. People who would chafe at doing 20 to 25 miles an hour uphill probably would call it a struggle. Mileage in Tow? Honestly I have never bothered with finding my exact mileage doing anything. But, I have owned this truck for many years. Factory mileage was supposed to be some 20 to 22 average. I don't think I ever got that good as I had the ladder rack from the first week. Good average mileage is about 18 to 20. Bad mileage might be 15 (uphill, nasty headwind..). Towing my 6x10 loaded for camping, I think 10 to 12 average? If I plan for gas stops, I plan on 10mpg.
For the rear cargo door there is a transition plywood piece attached to the door, I use that to prop open and hold the door. For the man door, there is a "hook and keeper" device attached low on the door. Holds it open pretty good except for high winds when I'll also use a rope to keep it from slamming shut unexpectedly.
Looks like the one I bought is unavailable. This one is similar. www.amazon.com/dp/B09Q2V99PP?tag=camelweb-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1&language=en_US Couple of dollars more currently. :D
Just want to add, you are missing out on some side money by not listing the products you use with Amazon links. I highly suggest doing their affiliate marketing. Plus it’s great for viewers like me to easily purchase cool items we saw in your video.
I have thought about pimping stuff for amazon. I might set it up someday. Another RUclipsr I follow has commented on his income from Amazon affiliate, and it was quite low. Less than $20 a month, if I remember correctly. I realize a dollar is a dollar and all that, but I kinda dislike overcommercialized channels where the whole thing seems geared toward selling stuff. I have no problem talking about products that I have purchased for my own use, and I'd have no problem with reviewing products related to my channel should a company ask. The last thing I want for this channel is for the viewer to think "What is Marc selling today". Thank you for the thought provoking questions and comments, bigonebikes!
I'm not sure what you're asking. Setup designs? ruclips.net/p/PLNkZp5Sh8VQDfnkgo_SGiE4yIkdzO_SfA This is my video playlist for the Cargo Trailer. It has all the original build items in there. I'll be adding the summer 2023 remodel videos once I get around to editing them.
I have an old toilet seat and a bag/bucket that can be used. I also have a small cabana tent that can provide privacy if needed, I generally don't need it where I camp. Lastly, I have no issues with going on a nice hike and digging a small cat hole to do my business in.
I have an old toilet seat and a bag/bucket that can be used. I also have a small cabana tent that can provide privacy if needed, I generally don't need it where I camp. Lastly, I have no issues with going on a nice hike and digging a small cat hole to do my business in.
As soon as I entered the trailer I showed a view to the back and then the front. Anyone could have dipped out then. Some other people like to see in depth and perhaps hear reasons for doing things. I'm sorry to waste your time. not.
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
To be honest, my first reaction to the proposition of an hour-long cargo-trailer camper walkthrough wasn't a positive one, but you have won me over with your no-nonsense style, your chair in the shade, your table for doin' your thing (that's me!) your stopping everything for that long sip o' coffee when it presented itself, for your surprising organizational skills... the hanging bar, also to deploy the extra blanket... That's frickin' genius. Your narrative is both factual and humorous at the same time. This is great entertainment along with a look at some very useful ideas. Bravo, Mr. Marc. Really enjoying this video when at first I thought I might have to bail out. Thanks for your efforts. Neat rig.
Welcome to the channel! I'm blushing. lol. In the immortal words of Esteban Vihaio, the old mexican pimp in the movie Kill Bill Vol. 2, "I must warn you, I am susceptible to flattery." ... Thanks again for the lovely comment. :D
😮
Great no nonsense quality build. So many good ideas.
I love it man! I like that you embrace the KISS principle (Keep It Simple Stupid). I'll be using some of your ideas. Thank you for your video
Thank you and welcome! Simple is best. :D
Really enjoyed this video. This is what I’d like to build. Simple and useful, not all the plumbing and all those elements to have to take care of. Load up my ebike and the dog and go find some trails and then camp for the night. Trailer still useful for cargo stuff in between. Just want to say your presentation is calm and so so relaxing to watch and hear. You have a gift for that. Thoroughly enjoyed this video. I’ll have to check out the others.
Thanks! The "do it yourself", utilitarian nature of cargo trailer campers fits myself to a T. If you can, have the tools, space and all that, the amount of satisfaction in making exactly what you want and need, is immense. I love my cargo trailer. :D
I had all but given up on my own build out and had almost quit watching these vids for ideas.... boy am I glad I caught this one! Phenomenal job, Sir! My trailer has become something of a dump hauler, as of late, as I have become the almost sole caretaker of a hoard and it's maker. I originally bought it to be a camper though and I hope to finish up my little 5 x 8 in the far future (at this point). This was very inspiring and I did already get the insulation done with my uncle's help so.... progress IS progress! Thanks again for sharing.
Good luck, Maya!
Your 5x8 will wait patiently for you. It'll be there when you have the time and or inclination to get it done.
Thanks for watching! :D
Very similar to my 6x14.
Best thing about our builds is that they can be easily changed, and they will change depending on our needs.
I have changed the kitchen counter layout once already. I think it's very good to be able to change it up as necessary. I find it curious that I have read of multiple people selling their trailer and starting a new one as opposed to just remodeling it.
Thanks for watching, Jim!
Guess my 6 cyl ranger would pull this size trailer also...would be just enough for my wife and l.
Love the simple solar power & enough water for a weekend.
I will pay the ultimate complement & copy your example.
Thanks !!!
Copy away, Sir!
You might want to make the bed a little wider than mine though! :D
@@camplapidary
Indeed!
I have a teardrop but it is really way too small for us. Looking at used cargo trailers now. ...a little bit pricey !!!!
6 × 10 seems perfect...but l am 6 feet tall....are you able to fully stand up ?
I'm 5'10" My trailer ceiling is about 6'2" or 6'3". Which I think is a standard height.
@@camplapidary wow...nice !
It might work then.
Thanks
This is really sweet Marc, many times dollar stores have lots of storage ideas. I agree, storage is essential to keep things organized
That's a good idea, Moose. Thank you.
I don't mind using the recycled plastic containers. I've saved quite a few of various sizes and shapes to play with. It's just a matter of finding the perfect ones for the space and use.
good project. thanks.
thoughts on some future type projects?
Just now going through comments and am seeing your question.
Once I have my 6x10 where I want it I'd like to put some effort into the 4x6 trailer. After the 4x6 is complete perhaps I'd like to try out a 5x8 size cargo camper. I think it would be interesting to purchase a new trailer, insulate and outfit it with some basics and then sell it for whatever profit. Might be a way to keep busy and make a little money..
Thank you so much for making this video. I am hoping to have my own cargo trailer to camp in and possibly even to live in within the next few years. I will definitely be on a tight budget and this is such a help for me by giving me so many ideas and so much information. Thank you again and take care
Glad it was helpful, Amy!
I am in the early planning stages of a cargo trailer conversion build. This video is gold for making practical, useful, efficient, and clever builds for it. Like you, I don’t want to have it become a complicated build. I thought your fold-up bed system was the most brilliant thing then you showed the super practical and smart way you built easy access to all of the internal wiring. One thing you helped answer is how to do the wiring beyond the trailer external lights. I like the use of the extension cord repurposed to running power outside of the wall to the outlets. I am now incorporating that into my build. Thank you for sharing a practical build that is not outside of most people’s abilities if they want to do this. Well done! PS - Your dog is very sweet.
Thank you!
I recently purchased a larger power station and added some 12 volt wiring, again using mostly old power cords attached to the plywood same as the 120 volt system. Trying to keep it simple, but each addition adds a little to the complexity of the overall trailer. I guess just be sure to use proper gauge cords for your amperage and voltage consumption.
Keep it simple but also keep it safe! :D
@Camplapidary - I agree about the safety. I will not do wiring above what I am safely capable to do. Do you prefer the drop down ramp door or would you like swinging barn doors in the back? I am torn between the two.
I like the ramp door because I need to load motorcycles occasionally. One of them weighs 800 pounds. Other than that I'd have barn doors or perhaps just a man door on the rear. The spring and cables of the ramp door can make things a little more difficult back there while insulating and general finish.
Look as long as you are off the ground and out of the rain you are doing ok.
Also quite a bit warmer in the 6x10 cargo trailer camper compared to a tent, that's for sure! :D
It'll get you there and keep you safe for sleeping. I love it.
Thanks, Patricia!
it's been a long cold winter and I'm ready for some spring camping. :D
Nice job, very simple, but you got what u need, that's what counts
Thanks! I have added a few things since filming this video. Always trying to keep it simple though!
Nice, rustic, little cabin.
All you really need.
Thank you! :D
Sweet setup 💪🏽 happy camping 🙌🏽
Thanks! :D
Oh my goodness .
So many great ideas! Love the video!!
Thanks, Mike! Welcome to the channel. :D
WOW so many ideas. Thank you for sharing.😊
You are very welcome, and thanks for watching and commenting! :D
it's a nice and simple design
Thanks! It sure works good for a budget little camper. :D
Nice simple setup. Seeing these small camper trailers makes me appreciate their strengths as well as their shortcomings. At roughly 60 sq ft you get a lot of function and nimbleness too. And on an incredibly small budget. Deciding to use your current Taco (I have a 04 that looks just like it) is a definite win. I decided to upgrade my truck to a 2020 Nissan Frontier 4x4 because of its higher towing capacity at over 6,300 lbs and the 4x4 too. At $23,500 with 18k miles it was the very best option I could find in June of ‘23. I am finally ready to start planning the trailer acquisition now. There are so many decisions to make. Videos, especially detailed ones like yours, are super helpful in the process. I have total respect of your frugality in your build.
Thank you, Tinymission!
My main desire when going camping or rockhounding is to get remote. I'll spend hours sometimes travelling down a washboardy desert road to get to some special place that might have good rocks to find. Like you say a smaller more nimble trailer is nice to have in these conditions.
My other trailer is 4'x6'. A very small enclosed trailer. I've had it since new, bought late 1990's. Worked a small handyman business out of it for years, pulling it with my 2002 Tacoma. Camping out of the 4x6 makes the 6x10 seem huge!
23.5k for a modern truck? Downright cheap if you compare to new Chevy or GMC at 50k to 90k new. I've considered going bigger now that my everyday driving is down to almost nothing. Thought about an older Toyota Sequoia perhaps, bigger motor, 4x4, enclosed cabin space. Might fit in good for my needs.
Good luck in your trailer search and shopping! Going new? I've read so many stories and seen videos of people complaining about the ordering process and receiving trailers not as ordered.
Enjoyed the video and the detail on how u did things and why. Thanks for sharing!
Glad you enjoyed it! :D
Very well thought out! Love the storage systems! Having the bed and side shelf to fold away makes it very convient for other usage of the space while on the road! I really like your ideas of using different types of things for storage in the kitchen area! You have done a great job and saved a lot of money! I could not use the caulking that neatly lol have a fit with that stuff. I have found Flex products to be better than other products. Had a radiator on my old Jeep to crack and used the spray to seal it. Drove it for 6 months until I got a new radiator for it and never had it lead again! They make the Flex tape, spray and one type you can just paint on.
Thank you, Patricia.
The main idea for fold up bed and table is to fit a motorbike in there. Or to use the cargo trailer as intended, for moving things. Haven't done either in it yet. I'm sure I will eventually.
I do like to use those durable plastic containers that whatever product comes in, I wish the labels came off easier.
I had an old '79 jeep wagoneer back in the day. Was a fun family vehicle.
A 4" mattress topper is easy to add to a thinner foam etc
I currently have a 4" memory foam topper on there and it's pretty comfortable. I think I would prefer a 2" topper. Eventually I'd like to get a 6" HD36 foam mattress as I can't imagine needing anything thicker and I do like that firm feeling without sinking in if you know what I mean.. :D
Hello Mark, stumbled onto your site yesterday and watched your trailer tour. I thought, this guy is doing a cargo build very much like my 6X10 Homestead trailer which I bought used about the same time you bought yours. Also like you, it is just myself and my old dog Nickie. I have insulated the Ceiling and walls but not the floor. I have the cargo doors which should work for me. (No motor cycle. I installed a nice storage box on the tongue, A.C. power inlet, solar power inlet, and I have cut out all of the panels and I am in the process of affixing them to the walls. I bought an 8 in memory foam mattress which I had planned to install in the same location you put your bed. I intended to fold it up against the wall as you have. So your Utube video was very helpful for my bed install. I bought a Bluetti EB240 which will provide all of my power. Also like you, I have decided to keep the build simple. I will use my trailer primarily as a hotel room for my dog and I . Your video is very good and enjoyable as well as informative. Thank you for posting it. You are giving me a little nudge to get going on mine!
Welcome to the channel, Craig! Glad to have you.. All of that sounds good to me, but I'd admit an 8 inch mattress must feel like a cloud! :D Have you shared your build anywhere?
I have not shared my build. I want to get it to the point where I can start using it. I travel to visit family about every 6 weeks. It is a hard long drive for both my old dog and myself. So I want to break the trip into a 2 day ride instead of a long 1 day ride. The decent hotels that will allow you to have your dog are very high $ unless you are willing to stay in a really cheap and not very nice place. So Thanks for your video. I just rewatched some of them to firm up my plan for the fold up bed . I will be copying some of your bed build!
If you ever do post it somewhere, let me know. I watch most every video I can find and look at the photo posts in the Facebook groups constantly.
I wish these trailers were cheaper to pull around. Even my small 6x10 cuts my gas mileage in half roughly. For my long drives I often just bring a tent and pitch it in the desert for an overnight stay.
Very nice cozy and serine looking cargo trailer 😊
Thank you!
I love the 2nd gen single cab Tacomas. One of greatest trucks ever
Mines a 2002 Pre-runner, it's given me 20+ years of reliable service and I hope for many more. Well worth the $16,000 back in the day.. Thanks for watching and the comment! :D
love it!
Thank you! :D
NICE JOB SIMPLE IS BEST 😀
Thanks! I'm in full agreement! :D
Hey Mark, on my second Cargo Trailer conversion build out. Like you I started out first by defining what I was going to use it for, and where and when I was intending to use it. That really helped me determine what I had to improve, modify. I took a minimalist approach. I haul my dr650, using floor mounted D rings reinforced underneath. Works great with ratchet straps. Best of luck
Hi, Bob!
On your second build. May I ask why? Was the first too small? Too big? Wanted drastic design change?
I have seen a few people say something like they didn't want to remodel so they just started over on a new one. Just curious... What size trailer are you rocking now?
I figure I'll put some more of those heavy floor D rings eventually. Been thinking about a pop up/fold up front wheel chock as well.
@@camplapidary Hi Mark, sorry on the delayed feed back. I’m a novice when it comes to navigating around utube capabilities. Yes it was a little small for me to load the Suzuki Dr650 or Harley depending on the trip. Second build is a 5x8, BUT a +6” height (both builds are Interstate Loadrunner models) rear ramp, and side door. Took me about 180 hours to complete the build. That extra +6” in height worked out perfect. It keep my overall weight around 1750-1800 lbs (with the Dr650 loaded) easy pull for my older Toyota Tacoma
No worries, Bob.
RUclips doesn't make it easy to find and respond to comments for sure.
5x8 extra tall? Sounds like a really good combination to me. Would love to see it.
I sold my 500 pound bike a couple of years ago. Was a Suzuki Vstrom DL650A. Wonderful bike, was sad to see it go. Just wanted to focus more on camping and less on long bike road trips. I'll keep the Yamaha WR250R until I can't candle a 300 pound bike anymore. Hopefully that won't be for a long while to come.
@@camplapidary Hi Mark, Vstrom nice bike, but I get the small bike for convenient resupply runs. I’ll keep a eye on your posts, best of luck and good health to you, safe travels
Thanks for not opening with a blasting on a guitar , I do enjoy classic rock as a drummer , but I think of building out a cargo t. or to go camping to be relaxing . Nice truck and good camper 🙂 keep at it buddy😮
It seems pretty common on RUclips that the music in a video is way too loud. I really try to avoid this.
Often I just want something upbeat that doesn't suck. Can be difficult only using Imovie music and the RUclips Audio Library.
Thanks for watching and the lovely comment! :D
Hey buddy thanks for this video! Funny I also have a white Tacoma & a Springbar tent like yours! I’m looking at purchasing a similar 6x10 cargo to build but wanting to mount a roof top tent on top.. what’s your thoughts on a couple hundred lbs on top of one of these? Thanks!
Hello there! I have seen rooftop tents on cargo trailers. Just photos on the internet of course.
Different trailers will be built differently. I feel like to have rooftop anything heavy, it should be built correctly. This might mean box tube construction instead of z channel walls. Maybe studs 16" on center vs 24". I'm no expert, but a good install will put the weight on the walls and not the roof.
I plan on big solar for my cargo trailer roof. Rack and panels will weigh maybe 150lbs dead weight and no live weight (there is a difference). My basic trailer should be fine for the solar but I'd wonder about the weight of people up there. Does that help? :D
Thanks! Your cargo is a flat roof correct? I know some are curved… also it wouldn’t be to difficult to beef up the roof with 2x4’s to make it more load bearing and support a couple hundred lbs? I’ve been dreaming for quite a while of a clam shell roof top tent on a 6x10 cargo like yours but with access from the inside.. that of course would also involve cutting a small access hatch.. appreciate any /all insight as I am only a hobby builder with very little experience and mostly a dreamer
I bet wood studs would be fine. Might even beef up the interior plywood thickness.
Yes, my trailer has flat roof with square edges. It was one of the things I was looking for. I do have an older 4x6 cargo trailer with flat roof but curved sides.
Learn to weld and you could build whatever you can think up. Some good facebook groups out there, tons of ideas for any budget. I'll be taking my new welder (once I learn) to my 4x6 this summer, I want a side pop-out for sleeping.
This thing is perfect
Thanks, Dave! I am rather fond of it. If it was 1000lbs lighter though... :D
Nice, simple, flexible choices on your build. I wish our 6x10 had a side door, but hindsight is 20/20. We only have the rear barn doors. We have a screen there, but I chose to glue the hook side to the inside frame, that way the loop edges on the screen itself are secure (gluing the hook tapes means we can still peel off the screen as needed). The primary purpose for our trailer is for teaching scuba out of, but over the past year we've done a lot to optimize all the available space for off-grid life. We currently have 200w of solar and 200ah lithium battery, but we're in the middle of upgrading to 400w of solar. Also, I really wish we had enough space for a nicer bed for the wife and myself, but having an actual breathable air compressor inside makes that impossible. We went with removable pipe berths that we just throw blankets and sleeping bags on....not even as comfy as what you have going, but better than being on the floor. I liked your moisture barrier idea. And, like you pointed out, sometimes a generator can be a great backup. We've got a tongue box where, among other things, we have a 1000w pure sine wave inverter generator. I was surprised you didn't go with a cooler-shaped 12v refrigerator--you definitely have the room for it, and you'd at least have as much room as you do now with a bunch of ice in a cooler. They're pretty reasonably priced these days. Anyway, I'm definitely envious of the V-nose on your trailer...that's another thing I wish we'd gone with. Nice job, though. I hope you get more opportunities to take it out!
Hello, and thank you for watching and commenting!
I went to your RUclips page and found your 2 cargo trailer videos. Watched them both and subscribed. Very nice, you are getting it done in a small space! One upside to not having a man door is that extra wall space that you have. The diagonal battery did raise my eyebrows a bit though. I'd be worried about unnatural stresses on it. Loved the porthole.
I'll be getting a compressor fridge once I upgrade to roof mounted solar and a larger power station. I've had my eye on the Bluetti AC200 Max. My budget for upgrades is miniscule though, so things take a while.. :D
@@camplapidary Thanks! And if the battery were anything other than lithium, I'd be worried, too. Plus, those Weize batteries are REALLY well made. And while the wall/shelf space was definitely great from the scuba class perspective, I think I could have adjusted if I had a side door by putting at least one smaller shelf on the door itself (foregoing a window/screen on the door like I see a lot of people do).
@@camplapidary BTW, I got the idea for the pipe berths from the GonAgain channel. Although there's are more or less permanently set up in a bunkbed-style approach, mine obviously had to be able to stow away. I slept in my berth with two of our dachshunds and I was pretty darned comfy! It's not for someone with back issues, but for everyone else it's not bad.
If you want to stack sleeping bodies, pipe berths are the way to do it no doubt.
I'm glad it's comfortable, I had always wondered. I often have a hard time sleeping, especially out camping. Much of my thought and effort are devoted to figuring out a way to sleep regularly.
@@camplapidary Oh, believe me, if we had the room, I'd have gone with something like a murphy bed (given the lack of a side door) and my wife would be much happier. We do also have a couple of those foam roll-up mats that we can lay on top of the berths---but it ain't memory foam, that's for sure. I'm looking forward to any future upgrades you do to your trailer, though! Always good to see different ideas!
6x10 is a perfect size, I converter a 98 pace with only rear doors and added a boat hatch on top to let light in. My forward area has an upper bunk and couch / pull out bed and ac. Looks like your idea was to also be able to work out if it
Hi, John!
Boat hatch, I like that idea.
Eventually I'd like to be able to travel about a bit and still make some polished stones. Making it all happen remains elusive.. :D
Screws condensating...I think my next build will be slightly better, essentially add studs. Trailers are 1" thick walls so use 2x2, cut to wall stud height. Cut/Notch top bottom as needed about 1/2" deep so it will extend to the interior 1/2" . Glue 1/2" foam to side of existing stud then glue new stud to other side of foam but extended in the 1/2", good construction adhesive to the top bottom frame. That allows 1/2" foam on outside between wall skin and new stud providing a thermal break. Or use spray foam. The inside of old stud gets 1/2" foam over it. But new studs create a new interior surface to attach to that's not directly contacting to outside/cold. New stud has a foam thermal break to the old stud too. Now your screws have 1 1/2" of wood to attach to and shouldn't condensate. If you wanted additional insulation you can add 1/2"-1" over whole wall surface.
The same method could be used for the roof, but may need to be thicker. If your roof is curved just need to math the profile. Like buy a 2x4 then cut curved top edge. Can even place the new roof ribs centered between original etc and glue foam to roof skin then new roof rib for more rigidity of roof.
I haven't had issues with the screw heads sweating since I covered them. Still get plenty of condensation on other exposed interior metal surfaces. Notably the windows and doors. Since this video I have added 2" foam board under the plywood floor to good effect and I think next summer or fall I'd add another 1" to the interior ceiling just for good measure. The trailer is pretty comfortable now but the ceiling is the weakest link now I guess. PS: I was just watching your 6x12 alum trailer review. Look like a nice trailer and project.
@camplapidary Oh haha watching mine nice...it's a really nice trailer overall. Definitely looking forward to not dealing with rust. That's really the only main reason I'm replacing my old one...rust jacking of bottom wall frame breaking through the outer Alum skin. It's bubbled all over outer edge. I DO NOT want to reskin it, those screws are not coming out anymore.
Yeah there's not much that can be done about the windows/doors. One advantage to my alum frame...water won't hurt nothing really. I looked for insulated glass window but couldn't find my desired size. Just have to live with frost or condensation. I'll just plan to not use it at crazy temps. But couple yrs ago I was heading to TX and drove 6-7hrs and it was still 18⁰ that night, felt so wrong. But 2nd night made it to Southern TX and it was 50ish.
Yep roof insulation is one of the best options, use as much as reasonably possible. Keeps the heat in and sun out
The campgrounds at Antelope Island may be a really good first state park to stay at.
Hi, Jon! Thanks for the suggestion.
We once stayed there, years back. Gypsy and I, on a motorbike, we toured much of the Island and tent camped at one of the sites. The mosquitos were ferocious. This was during a Perseids meteor shower, I saw the most amazing fireball that night. Excellent memories, thanks. :D
what else would you need? Nice.
Thanks! Since this video I have put in carpet, which is nice on the feet in the cold.
I would like to add a more robust solar electric system in the future.
A layer in insulation under the floor might be good.
I don't think there's much more I need than this! :D
Simple I like….❤❤❤
Thank you! 😊
Hey here from east Tenn. area. Where are you from ?
Im building out a Dodge Durango R/T then next project is a 5x8 utility trailer to use both for trout & base fishing in Tn. Va. N.C. just me and my dog ( son is always busy). Life is good 🙂
Salt Lake City, Utah. 5x8 is a good size, light and nimble but still big enough for a full size bed.
Thanks for watching and commenting! :D
Dr Lapidary!
Does the screen keep out the no seeums? those devils cover my ceiling in my minivan setup
I think i m using the wrong netting.
A warm color led strip would be a fantastic edition in certain areas that’s a perfect
space for that. The kind where you dont see those little dots just a nice uniform glow.
What s your refrigeration?
I got sold on the 12 volt coolers its a game changer for me not hustling melting ice anymore and the beers are really cold🍺
i remember when you first bought the trailer was raw nuthin.
Come a loong happy way with it.
Hi, TD!
Honestly, I can't remember ever having problems with "no see ums". Perhaps I'm not in the right areas at the right time for them?
Google tells me this - In the late spring and early summer, swarms of tiny biting gnats often greet visitors to Utah's national parks. Also called "midges," "no-see-ums," "punkies," and "moose flies," these miniscule pests thrive in the scattered pinyon-juniper forests of southeast Utah.
The screens seem pretty fine mesh to to me, so maybe it will keep them out. Mostly I'm just concerned with mosquitos and flies.
The little video lights I have have some color adjusting features to them. I'm not artistic enough to mess with it too much.. I'll eventually get some kind of very powerful led light to use when cabbing in the trailer.
I'm still using the old ice chest. I'd love to get, and will eventually, a 12 volt cooler. I want to upgrade the solar panels and power station first though. For my few short trips that I take, getting a couple of bags of ice from the local costco isn't too burdensome. Sucks to buy it from gas stations for sure.
I do love this trailer, put a lot of time and effort into it. Lol, I remember sleeping in it on a piece of cardboard thrown on the floor! :D
Oof. Biting midges are the worst. Make a mosquito bite seem like child’s play. Three weeks in and you’re still scratching like it’s day one, like a non fatal form of freaking smallpox. Im glad you mentioned them. I got a trip this weekend to a place where I got wiped out last year. Guess I’m a little late ordering bee keeping equipment, as DEET doesn’t seem to phase the little bastards. I really like this spot, but FML.
I like a lot of your ideas! I am working on something similar. Question... The stuff on the front shelves... how do you secure all that when Driving?
Hello!
I have this video where I'm driving around a bit and you can see what goes on in the trailer. ruclips.net/video/Ki0cXscOMCk/видео.html
Much of my stuff goes into storage totes for travel but some things can stay in place. My trailer is front heavy I feel and so I try to stack as much in the back of the trailer as possible.
Real nice setup! Just one question..do you have trouble with moisture from cooking on your electronics with the vent fan there?
Thank you, Crow!
No trouble from moisture while cooking. I always run the vent fan at least on low while I have the stove going. When it's extra cold outside and warm inside the trailer, I'll get condensation on the windows and any other exposed cold metal. But that's about it for moisture problems.
It's nice to be free. The important thing is that it can be achieved for less money.
A few more wanted upgrades to the trailer, and I'll then have more to spend on gasoline for these kind of trips. Gas is definitely the biggest expense for my camping nirvana. Thanks for watching! :D
Looks like a good set up for what you use it for , its that pet wood ?
Found the rockhound tease section, did ya? :D
Pet Wood and some Botryoidal Chalcedony on Jasper that I find out there.
You don’t have to change the stove, just use the propane bottles with the right attachment. I have the same stove. Never use the gray tank. Would only burn gas if I absolutely had to. I’ve only ever burned propane.
I think you have a good point. I'll look around for an adapter and give it a try. I have already bought a propane stove and accessories... Just seems like having another stove propane ready might be a good thing.
Nice video… convert the Coleman stove to propane with a $20 propane adapter. Much nicer to deal with than gas.
Now there's a thought I had not had. Converting the gasoline to propane.
In my most recent video I unboxed a new Camp Chef Everest 2X propane stove and some accessories to go with it. I hope it's more reliable than the Coleman Duel Fuel.
Hey Mr.mark,what can you used with your solar panel?and how long do it last?
Hello! I use the solar panel to charge the lithium battery bank. 14:05 Then I can charge or power some small things. It can last a long time if you are frugal with your electrical consumption.
What is your prop open ramp set up???
The ramp door is held open by the flip out transition plywood attached to the door that came with the trailer. I'm not sure it's exact name.
Of course I have a screen back there as well.
Great build! I’m deciding between a 5x8 or 6x10…. How’s your fuel mileage affected by this? Thanks!
Hello and thank you!
Milage will always be affected by weight and wind resistance. I think most people I've read, believe the size of the front of the trailer affects milage the most. My gas milage goes from 18-20mpg down to 10-12mpg perhaps, pulling this 6x10. I do love this 6x10!
I also have a 4x6 cargo trailer, milage hardly drops at all with it (depending on weight), though it is very small to use. I would like to try a 5x8 myself, I wonder if I could do without standing height to save some gasoline expense on longer trips.
That is exactly where I’m at.. planning on full timing it for a while and always thought I’d buy a 6x10 for the extra room
And standing height but now I’m leaning towards the 5x8… I found a brand new one for $3200.. only 700 lbs… the height and width lines up nearly perfect behind my Tacoma with shell so barely any wind resistance… the only bummer is the interior height is only 4’7” so I’ll need to treat it as a larger tear drop style… will build a kitchen in the rear… I have a 6 ft awning with a tent room that should help with the small size of trailer … not sure how happy I’ll be in the long run but I do plan on traveling many miles and fuel is a concern.. also I’m planning Baja in the winter so small is good exploring those hidden beach spots … thanks for your help!
They make a 5x10 as well. Always something to think about if full time, low ceiling and a bit longer for more storage. Good luck!
Hi Marc, i am looking into camping mattresses for our truck bed camper rig. I came across foam factory and other websites like it but am unsure. Would you say the 4inch foam would be easy enough to roll up or fold to store it? We want something flexible enough that we can roll the mattress toward the cab of the truck so that we can store things like the cooler in the rear of the truck bed without having to put it on top of the mattress itself, if that makes sense. We wont need to completely roll it up tiny or anything, just enough that it would fold to about half its actual size? or is 4 inch too thick to be foldable and maneuverable. Thanks for any advice!!
Hello! I have this video ruclips.net/video/iKmFu6vBFeI/видео.html where I unboxed the 4" foam from The Foam Factory. It might give you some insight to the size of it. I remember storing it for a while after the unboxing and it took up a large garbage bag and was poking from the top a bit. You can fold it and roll it but it never becomes very small if you know what I mean..
How do you like having the big door in back? As opposed to two swing doors? Do you use it like a deck ever or just cracked open like in your video?
Hello again! :D
I have mixed feelings about the ramp door. In some ways it's a royal pain in the keister. I often have thought that barn doors or no door at all would make many things much easier. The cables are the main culprit in making things difficult. Loading and unloading a motorcycle or other heavy items like a rock cutting slab saw, are the reasons I went with ramp door. I have never used it as a deck.
Honestly, I don't understand the allure of the ramp door rear deck patio idea, or the roof decks I sometimes see. Roof decks all I see is an injury waiting to happen. Ramp door decks seem nice at first but if you are a minimalist cargo trailer camper you're bringing or adding things to accomplish it. Perhaps it's a bit cleaner to sit on a deck and go in and out of your trailer getting drinks or whatever, but I'm not so dirt-phobic as to worry about that. I usually want to put my chair in the shade/sun, that shade/sun might be anywhere and not on the deck.
With barn doors:
You can easily make a private shower/toilet space with a rod and curtain.
I have seen a few window mount AC units installed on one door, seems like a good solution.
Most will need to bring a ramp to load motorbikes or four wheelers, etc.
@@camplapidary yeah I’m not sure if I’d want the big ramp door. Don’t think I’d use it for anything. And I don’t need a ramp for my e-bikes so maybe the double doors would be best. I’ve seen the A/C on one door like you said and I like that idea too. Now to find a trailer for a reasonable price. That’s going to be hard.
I do like very much that I can crack the rear ramp door like shown so easily. Barn doors you'll have to figure a way to hold one or both slightly open to achieve the same effect. Good luck with your purchase, know what features you want /need. I didn't think about the drop axel until too late, but axels are relatively cheap. If going used be patient, the right trailer will come eventually.
Is it possible to make a slide out in the back for more space?
Hi, Leston!
I suppose anything is possible with the will, tools, and knowledge to make it happen. I believe the easiest and least expensive way to gain more space is to start with a larger trailer. For some reason I just like the smaller less consumptive things. :D
I’ve seen a you tube video with a trailer that had that done to it. Might’ve been on a slightly bigger trailer but it was very cool..
I'd like to do a small pop out on the side of my 4x6 cargo trailer. Just so I can sleep sideways in it and still have a bit of room to sit and cook. Should be a fun project. :D
I’m not nitpicking, but whoever installed those vents put them in backwards. What if it rains when you’re going down the highway the water will go right in.
No worries at all.
These vents are commonly installed as they are on my trailer. The way the vent is constructed it is very unlikely for water to make it into the interior of the trailer. Baffles and such in there.
It is thought that the air coming in high and clean on the front and leaving low out the back of the trailer reduces dust infiltration.
Someday I'll take them off and reseal them, I don't like that ugly caulking around the perimeter of the vents.
Thanks for watching! :D
@ maybe they’re not on backwards maybe mine are on backwards and of course I always think I have the best of everything😬
The guy I bought the trailer from had them installed in this fashion. I think technically mine are backwards? Many camper conversions I've seen people have none at all, personally I like a little air exchange at all times.
Is it a struggle to pull?
What kind of mileage do you get in tow?
Is it a struggle to pull?
I don't feel like it is. Though I have read enough online conversations to know that many would disagree. Going up the worst grades I'm as slow as a loaded semi. People who would chafe at doing 20 to 25 miles an hour uphill probably would call it a struggle.
Mileage in Tow?
Honestly I have never bothered with finding my exact mileage doing anything. But, I have owned this truck for many years. Factory mileage was supposed to be some 20 to 22 average. I don't think I ever got that good as I had the ladder rack from the first week. Good average mileage is about 18 to 20. Bad mileage might be 15 (uphill, nasty headwind..). Towing my 6x10 loaded for camping, I think 10 to 12 average? If I plan for gas stops, I plan on 10mpg.
How do you propose the door half open?
For the rear cargo door there is a transition plywood piece attached to the door, I use that to prop open and hold the door.
For the man door, there is a "hook and keeper" device attached low on the door. Holds it open pretty good except for high winds when I'll also use a rope to keep it from slamming shut unexpectedly.
@camplapidary thx for responding, but to clarify...I have a ramp door that is held by hard wires. Not sure how to properly the ramp up
The "wires" are attached to a spring which helps to lift the heavy ramp door.
Do you have battery that holds the electricity
Yes, it's a Bluetti AC50s. 14:05 an older model but still works good for me.
I can't seem to find the power converter that you use for your max fan on Amazon. Any ideas?
Looks like the one I bought is unavailable. This one is similar. www.amazon.com/dp/B09Q2V99PP?tag=camelweb-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1&language=en_US
Couple of dollars more currently. :D
@@camplapidarythank you Sir
Just want to add, you are missing out on some side money by not listing the products you use with Amazon links. I highly suggest doing their affiliate marketing. Plus it’s great for viewers like me to easily purchase cool items we saw in your video.
I have thought about pimping stuff for amazon. I might set it up someday. Another RUclipsr I follow has commented on his income from Amazon affiliate, and it was quite low. Less than $20 a month, if I remember correctly. I realize a dollar is a dollar and all that, but I kinda dislike overcommercialized channels where the whole thing seems geared toward selling stuff. I have no problem talking about products that I have purchased for my own use, and I'd have no problem with reviewing products related to my channel should a company ask. The last thing I want for this channel is for the viewer to think "What is Marc selling today".
Thank you for the thought provoking questions and comments, bigonebikes!
How do you light yourself in the night?
55:29 Mostly rechargable flashlights.
Will us share setuo designs
I'm not sure what you're asking. Setup designs? ruclips.net/p/PLNkZp5Sh8VQDfnkgo_SGiE4yIkdzO_SfA This is my video playlist for the Cargo Trailer. It has all the original build items in there. I'll be adding the summer 2023 remodel videos once I get around to editing them.
No bathrooms?
I have an old toilet seat and a bag/bucket that can be used. I also have a small cabana tent that can provide privacy if needed, I generally don't need it where I camp. Lastly, I have no issues with going on a nice hike and digging a small cat hole to do my business in.
Simplicity love it
How about restroom
I have an old toilet seat and a bag/bucket that can be used. I also have a small cabana tent that can provide privacy if needed, I generally don't need it where I camp. Lastly, I have no issues with going on a nice hike and digging a small cat hole to do my business in.
😉😊😘🤩👍👍
❤
:D
Go Utes
:D
One hour video for something that could’ve take 15 minutes max , is not like you a huge trailer
As soon as I entered the trailer I showed a view to the back and then the front. Anyone could have dipped out then. Some other people like to see in depth and perhaps hear reasons for doing things. I'm sorry to waste your time. not.