In the 90s, I commuted to work on I-80 in Eastern Iowa. On a couple of occasions, the boring drive was punctuated by spotting very tiny metal campers. I have to think that was I was seeing were vintage, homemade teardrops. I thought it was intriguing, but no one seemed to have any idea what they could be. In the early 2000s, I was the single mom of a son who loved the outdoors. He was in Scouts, but I knew he would like to go camping with me. As a woman who survived several assaults during my marriage, I was generally watchful and anxious. I couldn't sleep in a tent any longer. One day I say a couple of Little Guy teardrops sitting on the lot of a trucking specialties shop on a busy street. I went back after hours with my son, and we looked them over through the locked doors, and I was sold on the idea. This was a way for us to go camping. This was enough to make me feel safe. It actually took me quite a few years to be able to afford making this move, because my car was too small to tow, but I am out there now in a Intech Flyer Pursue and am having a great time. I am still new enough to stress over maintenance issues, and that is why I watch your videos.
We bought a Bushwacker Plus 17BH during COVID as well, we have extended family with campers and moterhomes and this was a way for us to join in on the fun 2-3 times a year with them. My spouse is not a tent camper, so the trailer was a way for us to get outdoors in relative comfort. I discovered your channel while looking for maintenance and upgrade tips for our new toy, and I've installed the main battery and radio cutoff switches per your tutorials. Thanks for the great content!
Thanks for sharing. We are just now getting into our 2nd camper (video filming tomorrow) and have the same thoughts - I used to HATE forest river... and now I realize they are all pretty much the same and the journey is more important than the hiccups!
Awesome backdrop and great tease. Welcome to the two-camper community. The 10SS will always be my favorite due to simplicity and ease of towing. It's nice to have an alternative with a little more room for extended guests and the ability to stand up in. Really glad to see you did not trade off the Bushwhacker for another teardrop. Here's to many great adventures with Lucia and of course Ripple. See you down the road Brian.
Like you I bought my Free solo during the pandemic and had to basically finish it since the workmanship was so bad. I still have and use it several times a year. Your channel has been instrumental in helping me. If you could do a video showing how to replace that coil hose with a gooseneck that would be awesome. Keep the content coming and can't wait to see the new addition.
That's great to hear, it's actually become quite enjoyable to work on the BW. Now that I have the major stuff done, it's just a little mods to make life easier at the campsite.
Thanks for sharing your story; I liked hearing your background. I have a Vistabule and haven’t had a problem in the 3 years I’ve owned it. Thanks to your channel, when something does go wrong I’ll know how to fix it. I like knowing how things work, and you’ve taught me so much about my camper.
Always wanted one, career changed and needed to be at work in bed weather, your vids helped solidify some ideas of mine and the price was decent. The rest is history. Mine has really become a tool, from disaster shelter while helping the kids, to relaxing spot to vacation in. I still owe you a cup of coffee. Thanks for the content.
Your channel helped my wife and I decide to get a teardrop from a local company (Gnome Homes in Sherwood Park, Canada) last summer. Very well built -- the owner was a cabinet maker for years, and the craftsmanship has been bomb proof so far. We've been dialing in the details ever since, and thanks to your guide videos were able to choose a Renogy 200 watt solar kit that's made us power-independent, except in cold shoulder season camping in the Canadian Rockies (when we need electric heaters). We tent camped before but wanted to extend our camping season, didn't want to pull anything big with our SUV, and love the ability to have it sitting in our garage, ready to launch at short notice. Looking forward to learning more about your second camper!
Dude, awesome! congrats! I think it's important to keep things fresh! I think the new camper will you you a fresh perspective and excitement. I'm looking forward to your new perspective from the Bushwhacker to the new camper. I think it will also benefit your channel too. :D
Hiked & camped for absolute years..... Started to go to more festivals just had more need for a tiny camper. With the jeep, went with a square drop, I can go deeper here in the White Mountains........found your channel and never looked back! I was hoping for the reveal in this video, but gonna have to wait I guess! Congrats on whatever you got, please hurry up with the next video! Lol be well
I have a jayco hummingbird. I'm always looking to improve it. Slowly make it ready for long boondockung experiences. I'm a big diy. Thanks for your videos.
Back in 2021 I made the decision to buy a teardrop trailer from Rustic Trail and go see America. We are now in our third year of being full time on the road. We have over 50,000 mostly trouble free miles and 27 states under our belt. We boondock over 95% of the time and love every minute of it. I have been considering starting a RUclips channel but so far have just documented our travels on Instagram. I look for ward to seeing which camper you purchased?
Now that's a lot of miles! I love the rustic trail, I've heard nothing but good things. We have put a ton of miles and time on our rig, but we're not at 50,000!
Although we haven't put on the miles that you guys have, we have a similar story. We bought our first Bushwacker in 2020 and camped a lot that year, partially because everything was locked down. It was a great way to get out of the house, spend time with grandkids and family and enjoy life. I agree our lives have changed with modifying the teardrop (a lot of ideas sparked by your videos) and different ways of spending time away. We are on our 5th year of teardrop camping and I think we finally have figured it out, how to make it comfortable and easy to go, without having to pack too much.
Thank you for tuning into the channel and commenting. It definitely takes a while to get in a groove, I'm a little nervous about having to do it all over again!
Nice to see your happy, smiling face again Brian :) I began my camper journey after having done a lot of hauling of horses in gooseneck trailers. Camping in them is good fun, but never had all the amenities. I had done some tent camping too, and I generally like sleeping outside better than indoors. A couple of friends of mine had a big 5th wheel camper that they would take Up North, and after one friend had some health issues, I would go along to care for her while her parnter set everything up and I would spend the weekend with them. Eventually, I decided I'd like my own space, and went looking for a tiny camper like I had seen at RV sales along the highway. I had a BW+ and a T@G parked next to each other, and it was simple math- go easy on my bank account and get the BW+! Long story short, a week after I bought the Chonky Beast, one of my friends passed away. Her parnter bought a smaller camper, and we went on our maiden voyages together, learning about our special compact units together, and sharing mods and favorite campsites. Like a brother and a good friend, you have been integral in my camping journey as your personal attention and your videos have taught me all the basics that I never knew I needed to know, and so much more! I am so happy to have found your channel and share the experiences with you. Thank you Brian!
I really appreciate you tuning in and supporting the channel, it does feel like a family to me. Nice to hear more about your story, I don't feel as dramatic when I tell people how impactful these little devices can be. I'm glad you have a traveling companion to learn the ropes with, it's definitely more fun that way!
Teardrops/tiny campers have a big appeal to lots of us. I've never wanted a large RV, and certainly don't want to tow one. I've camped my whole life and enjoy car camping, backpack camping, and especially motorcycle camping. The car/family camping evolved into eyeing teardrops. I like that they force you outside. I'll happily sit under an awning in the rain and cook a meal and coffee. Expanding a small camper's functionality with tongue boxes, 12v fridges, hot water/showers, PPS's, solar, and all the myriad things we do makes them more robust, and allows us to tinker/fix/upgrade things which so many of us love to do. I've learned a lot about all of it from watching your channel and reading the posts of other owners who have so many good ideas and varying skill sets. Great communities form around the ecosystem and allow for new friendships, sharing of ideas, and getting together on trips. I would much rather have a very well-built teardrop, but the BW fit my budget at the time and it has largely served me well. I could see myself investing in something with better quality out the factory door in the future, but for the foreseeable future the BW does the job. And I'll never feel like I use it enough!!
I'm with you, it's definitely the right fit and I like mild tinkering. With this build, I was looking for something that differentiated from the Bushwhacker, but had a lot of overlapping qualities. A little higher quality was a must.
Love this! Thanks for sharing the ferns and the background. You’re right that it’s always interesting when it’s authentic-and that’s what I’ve loved about your style since the beginning. #bravo
10 years into retirement I realized one thing that I loved to do in my youth before starting my career and that was camping and exploring. My career took 60-80 hours a week from my life so for 30+ years I missed out on that hobby. Now at my age I wanted something that would keep me off the ground and that was a rooftop tent. It fit in my 4x4 Tacoma enabling me to go further into remote areas. I really got into it and then decided it would be nice to have something with more protection from the elements but I didn’t want the expense or hassle of a large trailer to pay for storage and all the issues that come along with a large trailer. My HOA will not allow RV storage. That’s when I started looking into tiny teardrops. Fits in the garage, light enough to pull easily with not only my Tacoma but my Outback as well and small enough to pull into more remote areas. I live in the west so boondocking is plentiful. I bought a NuCamp Tag xl and that’s when I stumbled onto your channel. It has been a wealth of information that has made this hobby so much more enjoyable. You absolutely right when you say the camper sits there asking for another adventure. I can’t get enough of it now and find myself constantly looking for the next adventure. Thank you for all your great content and helpful information.
This is a great story, I'm so glad that you found the channel! The t@g boondock looks like a ton of fun. Wishing you all the best with a lot of great camping trips coming!
Hello Brian! Congratulations on your new addition!!! I am SO happy I found your channel. I live in upstate New York and absolutely love the Adirondack mountains, and my goal has always been to spend more time there. I don’t have a camper yet, but it is a dream and I’m doing all my research and homework because I need a camper that “fits me”! I am all of 5’ 1” so I need something that I can manage solo. I also have two daughters and two granddaughters who I will be camping with often (although probably not all at once without an additional tent! I have also never been out west and want to tour all of the major national parks. My questions for you are as follows: Would you consider a video that reviews Small fiberglass campers like a Casita, Scamp, Escape vs. teardrop like Intech Luna Rover, Hiker, Runaway? I would also heard about campers with trailers that have rusted to the point they are not roadworthy and would LOVE to know what your recommendations/experience is with this given I live in one of the Snow/Road Salt capitals of the 🇺🇸. An in-depth video on best winter campers and maintenance practices would be awesome. Thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge!!! Be blessed!
Not that Brian wouldn't do all this for you (he would), but this work has already been done on a channel called Playing With Sticks. Drew, his wife May,, and their two boys have covered almost every kind of teardrop camper type and situation you can think of. I highly recommend you check his channel out.
I'm so happy that you've been tuning in! I will do my best to feature all the campers that I can find, they are my favorite videos to make. There is no doubt that salty road conditions can reallllllly impact our trailers. The name of the game is keeping it clean, even when it's difficult. Although they are definitely going to rust, they generally don't get to the point of disrepair unless they are neglected. After three years of constant use, including in the winter, I am very impressed with the frame on the bushwhacker. I try to keep it clean and do a little touchup paint once in a while, it looks almost brand new.
Wow, you sure know how to keep a turkey in suspense! I was hoping to get the big reveal on the new camper! We got started on teardrop camping around the same time and for the same reason as you guys, the pandemic! Where things differ a bit is, we bought a Tesla in early 2020 and tried camping in it cuz it has “camp mode”. But that was just a bit too tight to try and fit all our gear into the car. So, we purchased a little guy teardrop because it seemed to be one of the lighter and smaller trailers which, weight and size can significantly affect range towing with an electric car. Thanks for all your help and guidance in diy-ing our trailer to help us suit our needs!
I was lucky enough to see your new camper right after you got it. I was so glad to see it did not have shin knocking scissor jacks on the back! Looking forward to the new videos!
Thank you Brian for another great video. I started out as a kid in tents, popups and a 1960s travel trailer. When my kids were young we had a fiberglass egg then a converted school bus. Some years after kids were gone we re-entered in a popup and I just retired and bought a TT. I found your channel looking for real life solar information that was not over sized for simple battery maintenance. You replied back to my questions with the confirmation that what I did purchase was all I need for now. You are an inspiration and great resource for reviews. I will remain subscribed as long as you allow me to learn from you. Congratulations on your newest upgrade I am excited as my brother is dealing on a Bushwacker Plus 17. Be well be safe. I seen a Vistabule in Dickinson ND last year.
I enjoyed hearing your story. Its a nice change up from all the techy camper videos. My Wife and I have been married for 38 years, this Nov it will be 39. We raised three children and back then we eventually got a pop up trailer. After a few years we switched to a hybrid and eventually stopped camping when our Yukon XL had a transmission issue. Years later after all the kids were gone, my Wife was going to retire. I really needed something to distract her, keep her busy and get us out of the house to exercise. I normally do not make big decisions without her, but I wanted to surprise her with a new car and trailer on her last day of work. After the big reveal, it took us six months of waiting to get our license plate. Now that we have it, we have gone out twice camping. Its really hot here and I don't have an air conditioner. Not sure when we will go out again, but next year we are planning on getting out there more. I really want to see Joshua Tree and Death Valley, maybe November we can get out there.
That's a great story, I enjoy hearing how people relate to using RVs getting outdoors. I hope that you're able to seek some cooler weather and get some more trips in with the Mrs! Thank you for swinging by and commenting.
Any chance on a tutorial video about properly upgrading to lithium batteries - protecting the tow vehicle’s alternator, battery isolators, DC-to-DC chargers, inverters and converters, etc? Your other videos on those sorts of topics have been very helpful.
Hahaha no reveal! The old Gypsy Rose Lee trick! It'll keep people coming back 🙂 This comment is coming to you from Jenny Jump State Forest, about 25 miles east of the Delaware Water Gap. I'm out with...my old North Face Stormtrack 3 tent!. As you know, my wife's mobility issues keep us from having a teardrop, as she requires that self-contained bathroom. And while I haven't completely fixed the electrical issues, I just bypass them by hooking up 3 200W solar panels in series and feeding the PPS, which is plugged into the unit's 30A plug. We use the Class 3 when we camp together, but I have been experimenting with simpler and simpler solo camping setups. Using a rooftop carrier, I can now pack my Toyota Matrix with everything I need, and still create an indoor bed if necessary. I bought an Honda Trail 125 and am planning some close-to-home motocamping trips. I've been camping since my teenage years as a Boy Scout (Onteora, baby!), but with both of us now in our early 70s, we have to find less taxing ways to camp, since the actual work of camping can be strenuous now. 20 years ago I invested in a 20-acre parcel of land, and that's our go-to site. A 6-hour drive in a Class C is not that much fun anymore; better to drive 40 minutes and be camping. OK I'll shut up now and wait for the BIG REVEAL!
I promise I wasn't trying for Clickbait… But I guess that's what I did. I was so afraid that if I put the reveal out this week, I would get 500 comments asking if I sold the Bushwhacker, didn't want to speak about that during the reveal.... As always, I love your practical approach. Some of the more romantic ideas fade as we do this a lot. It's amazing to be outdoors and have a nice shelter, but 12 hour driving days and nonstop. maintenance cant be ignored... simple is good.
I first saw either a T@G or T@B about 22 years ago and loved the idea of it, but we weren't at a point in our lives to really act on that desire. Then about 10 years ago I started looking at the RPods. Lurked on the Facebook page. Saw all the problems with water intrusion, black and grey water piping, and blown tires and destroyed fenders. Finally decided on a Colorado Teardrop in 2021. Ordered one and it was ready 13 long months later. We love it! Try to get out at least once a month. Have to skip July and August since we are in OK, but don't have AC. Disappointed when Colorado Teardrop went belly up in January. We are looking to upgrade to one with an AC and propane heat soon. Love your channel.
Thank you for sharing the story, I think a lot of people can relate. I too looked at some of the same campers and saw the same problems. Even though the Bushwhacker had problems, I knew it was something that I could handle and the price was right. I was bummed to hear about Colorado teardrop going under as well, I hope you find something that you love. The escapade is great, and like the other person said, Hiker is pretty awesome as well.
Brian, I wonder if I can contact you somehow. I have a question on your Installing Master Switch on Camper Trailer | RV Kill Switch Video, Is this possible? Thanks Bruce Lathrop, Valencia, CA
@@DIYOutdoorLife OK, thanks. I have added the same switch on the outside of my Aliner's battery box. No problem. I have also added two outside battery posts, so I do not have to open the battery box to charge the battery. Not withstanding the switch, how do I hook up the outside posts? I want an easy external method of charging the battery even when all the battery's wires are still connected. Thank you !
@@brucelathrop29 how do you wanna charge the battery? If you want a wall (utility power) charger, can you just attach that to the external battery post when you would like to charge? Are you trying to use the onboard charger that came installed on your Aliner? Solar? Should be pretty straightforward, just have to understand your scenario
Sorry friend, I knew this was gonna be an issue, but it wasn't my intention. I have the trailer reveal video coming out, and I was afraid if I didn't discuss the backstory, I was gonna upset other people thinking I sold my usual trailer. Didn't mean to leave you hanging.
Sorry 😞 didn't mean to rip people off with the teaser video. I was afraid if I didn't put a video like this out first, I would have to discuss all of this stuff during the reveal video so people didn't think I sold my original rig. Reveal coming soon!
Hey Brian! So good to see you again! I have worked my way up to a 20ft class C. I started in my minivan, then a little squaredrop that I never got to take out. I love my camper so much. It's my vacation home. Even just a few days at a time to go somewhere else, and it doesn't have to be far. I love the fact that, by now...I've got it situated the way I want. It stays on the ready so I just need to pack clothes and food and I can go. I've had fun making simple changes and creating a space that is so comfortable and cozy. I came to your channel for the teardrop/tiny camper info. I stick around because you are an excellent teacher and enjoyable person to watch. I'm looking forward to seeing the new rig and all the cool stuff you're gonna do to it.
Thank you so much for continuing to watch the channel. It's really cool that you've worked your way up in that way and found something that works great for you. I think we both appreciate having a ready to go vacation on wheels!
Grew up in a large family so tent camping is how we took vacations. Camped with my kids a few times, but it was a lot of work without another adult to help so it came less frequently for many years. Started camping with my daughter and her family and then met my husband. The day before we got married he bought a small toy hauler so we could camp and take our motorcycles. Within a year we had moved up in size, but it was too big for our truck and before you could say motorhome we were in a 34' Class C. It was going to be perfect for trips with the grandkids, except the grandkids moved away and grew up. Just a few months ago we downsized to our Bushwhacker 10HD. Still setting things up and cannot wait to be on the road again and sleeping where there are more stars than lights.
People who have a lot of backpacking/tent camping experience do the best in teardrops! It feels like having your cake and eating it too... keeping it simple and fast, but having a solid shelter with less set up! Thanks for watching the channel!
Bummer, watched the entire video entitled I got a new camper, and we did not even get a single glimpse of it 😢. 😂. Good to see you again now please show us the camper!
I'm sorry, I really didn't wanna do some click bait, but I guess I did. Trailer review coming very soon. I mainly wanted to make sure I got this video out ahead of the review so people didn't think I sold the bushwhacker 😂
I really appreciate you turning into the channel, I hope that you're able to find something for the right price point. In the meantime, certainly nothing wrong with car and tent camping, I still try to do that on the cheap.
I wanted to try and build a vardo on a utility trailer. But my utility trailer order got delayed. By the time I bought a used one, situation had changed. I moved cross country. Finally got in a position to buy a trailer again. I wanted something with minimal systems, easy to tow. I always like the looks of the T@gs, so that's what I found. Just retired and am taking this out for my first trip. It will be fun!
As newish empty nesters and experienced TT owners now 5x over in a 23 year period, the current perfect amalgamation of TT for our current weekend warrior situation is an A-frame type called a (2023) Forest River Flagstaff T12RBST. The biggest improvement in this choice of TT is the fact that you can store it a standard sized garage so it is constantly charged and ready to adventure in less than 20 minutes or so. NOT having to pay a 3rd party storage lot fee is FREEING. Looking forward to seeing your new rig. ✌🏼
I agree with you, and they have some major improvements over standard pop-ups. I've definitely kept a close eye on that A-frame design over the years! Thanks for watching!
In the 90s, I commuted to work on I-80 in Eastern Iowa. On a couple of occasions, the boring drive was punctuated by spotting very tiny metal campers. I have to think that was I was seeing were vintage, homemade teardrops. I thought it was intriguing, but no one seemed to have any idea what they could be. In the early 2000s, I was the single mom of a son who loved the outdoors. He was in Scouts, but I knew he would like to go camping with me. As a woman who survived several assaults during my marriage, I was generally watchful and anxious. I couldn't sleep in a tent any longer. One day I say a couple of Little Guy teardrops sitting on the lot of a trucking specialties shop on a busy street. I went back after hours with my son, and we looked them over through the locked doors, and I was sold on the idea. This was a way for us to go camping. This was enough to make me feel safe. It actually took me quite a few years to be able to afford making this move, because my car was too small to tow, but I am out there now in a Intech Flyer Pursue and am having a great time. I am still new enough to stress over maintenance issues, and that is why I watch your videos.
This is an incredible story! I'm so happy that you figured it out and got a great teardrop. Thank you for sharing and watching the channel!
We bought a Bushwacker Plus 17BH during COVID as well, we have extended family with campers and moterhomes and this was a way for us to join in on the fun 2-3 times a year with them. My spouse is not a tent camper, so the trailer was a way for us to get outdoors in relative comfort. I discovered your channel while looking for maintenance and upgrade tips for our new toy, and I've installed the main battery and radio cutoff switches per your tutorials. Thanks for the great content!
I'm glad those tutorials were helpful, it's nice to meet so many people having a great time in their bushwhackers of all sizes!
Looking forward to seeing your new camper and watching your progress toward making it "your own"!
Thank you for watching the channel! There is a lot of work ahead, but that's half the fun. 🤩
Thanks for sharing. We are just now getting into our 2nd camper (video filming tomorrow) and have the same thoughts - I used to HATE forest river... and now I realize they are all pretty much the same and the journey is more important than the hiccups!
Great to hear, I'll tune in!
I agree, a lot of these are built exactly the same .
@@DIYOutdoorLife Thanks! It doesn't help that Forest River owns half the brands and they all use the same compenents...
@@livingforalivingRV exactly! even the companies that are differentiated use the same supplier and often times some of the same workers
Congratulations on the new camper Brian!
Thanks John, I appreciate that you're still tuning in!
Awesome backdrop and great tease. Welcome to the two-camper community. The 10SS will always be my favorite due to simplicity and ease of towing. It's nice to have an alternative with a little more room for extended guests and the ability to stand up in. Really glad to see you did not trade off the Bushwhacker for another teardrop. Here's to many great adventures with Lucia and of course Ripple. See you down the road Brian.
Thank you so much for tuning in, I was thinking of you as one of the two camper households!
Congrats! You have more adventures ahead of you. I'm looking forward to these new videos for sure.
Thank you! I appreciate that you watch the channel.
Like you I bought my Free solo during the pandemic and had to basically finish it since the workmanship was so bad.
I still have and use it several times a year. Your channel has been instrumental in helping me. If you could do a video showing how to replace that coil hose with a gooseneck that would be awesome.
Keep the content coming and can't wait to see the new addition.
That's great to hear, it's actually become quite enjoyable to work on the BW. Now that I have the major stuff done, it's just a little mods to make life easier at the campsite.
Such good comments on teardrops, I agree 200% on what you said, cheers !!!
If you know, you know! Thank you for turning in and watching!
Thanks for sharing your story; I liked hearing your background. I have a Vistabule and haven’t had a problem in the 3 years I’ve owned it. Thanks to your channel, when something does go wrong I’ll know how to fix it. I like knowing how things work, and you’ve taught me so much about my camper.
Thank you so much for tuning in. The vistibule is a real work of art, it doesn't surprise me that it's low maintenance as well.
Always wanted one, career changed and needed to be at work in bed weather, your vids helped solidify some ideas of mine and the price was decent. The rest is history. Mine has really become a tool, from disaster shelter while helping the kids, to relaxing spot to vacation in. I still owe you a cup of coffee. Thanks for the content.
That is really great to hear, I love that you're also using it for practical reasons in addition to vacation.. I can relate
Nice, looking forward to seing more 👍👍
Thank you, I appreciate you watching the channel!
Covid drove me to buy my VTC off road teardrop. It’s been a blast and kept me sane. I just bought another camper too!
Nice! Two campers seems excessive to some, it seems like you get it!
@@DIYOutdoorLife Am selling the teardrop. Been looking for a Casita for awhile and pulled the trigger.
@@barryread3672casitas are top notch, very cool!
Your channel helped my wife and I decide to get a teardrop from a local company (Gnome Homes in Sherwood Park, Canada) last summer. Very well built -- the owner was a cabinet maker for years, and the craftsmanship has been bomb proof so far. We've been dialing in the details ever since, and thanks to your guide videos were able to choose a Renogy 200 watt solar kit that's made us power-independent, except in cold shoulder season camping in the Canadian Rockies (when we need electric heaters). We tent camped before but wanted to extend our camping season, didn't want to pull anything big with our SUV, and love the ability to have it sitting in our garage, ready to launch at short notice. Looking forward to learning more about your second camper!
I'm glad you found a solid build, something that can last for years! Thank you for tuning into the channel - Brian
Dude, awesome! congrats! I think it's important to keep things fresh! I think the new camper will you you a fresh perspective and excitement. I'm looking forward to your new perspective from the Bushwhacker to the new camper. I think it will also benefit your channel too. :D
Thank you! It's really exciting to tinker around with the new rig and I'm excited about the new content as well.
Hiked & camped for absolute years..... Started to go to more festivals just had more need for a tiny camper. With the jeep, went with a square drop, I can go deeper here in the White Mountains........found your channel and never looked back! I was hoping for the reveal in this video, but gonna have to wait I guess! Congrats on whatever you got, please hurry up with the next video! Lol be well
Next video video is coming really soon! We love the white mountains!
I have a jayco hummingbird. I'm always looking to improve it. Slowly make it ready for long boondockung experiences. I'm a big diy. Thanks for your videos.
That's an awesome camper, I can't wait to hear how you set it up. Keep us in the loop!
Back in 2021 I made the decision to buy a teardrop trailer from Rustic Trail and go see America. We are now in our third year of being full time on the road. We have over 50,000 mostly trouble free miles and 27 states under our belt. We boondock over 95% of the time and love every minute of it. I have been considering starting a RUclips channel but so far have just documented our travels on Instagram. I look for ward to seeing which camper you purchased?
Now that's a lot of miles! I love the rustic trail, I've heard nothing but good things. We have put a ton of miles and time on our rig, but we're not at 50,000!
Although we haven't put on the miles that you guys have, we have a similar story. We bought our first Bushwacker in 2020 and camped a lot that year, partially because everything was locked down. It was a great way to get out of the house, spend time with grandkids and family and enjoy life. I agree our lives have changed with modifying the teardrop (a lot of ideas sparked by your videos) and different ways of spending time away. We are on our 5th year of teardrop camping and I think we finally have figured it out, how to make it comfortable and easy to go, without having to pack too much.
Thank you for tuning into the channel and commenting. It definitely takes a while to get in a groove, I'm a little nervous about having to do it all over again!
I look forward to when you unveil your new (Hiker?) trailer. Lol
Hahaha
Was sort of hoping/expecting a new camper to be featured in your I got a new camper video.... 😜
Sorry... it'll come soon! Nice screen name!!
Nice to see your happy, smiling face again Brian :)
I began my camper journey after having done a lot of hauling of horses in gooseneck trailers. Camping in them is good fun, but never had all the amenities. I had done some tent camping too, and I generally like sleeping outside better than indoors. A couple of friends of mine had a big 5th wheel camper that they would take Up North, and after one friend had some health issues, I would go along to care for her while her parnter set everything up and I would spend the weekend with them. Eventually, I decided I'd like my own space, and went looking for a tiny camper like I had seen at RV sales along the highway. I had a BW+ and a T@G parked next to each other, and it was simple math- go easy on my bank account and get the BW+!
Long story short, a week after I bought the Chonky Beast, one of my friends passed away. Her parnter bought a smaller camper, and we went on our maiden voyages together, learning about our special compact units together, and sharing mods and favorite campsites.
Like a brother and a good friend, you have been integral in my camping journey as your personal attention and your videos have taught me all the basics that I never knew I needed to know, and so much more! I am so happy to have found your channel and share the experiences with you. Thank you Brian!
I really appreciate you tuning in and supporting the channel, it does feel like a family to me. Nice to hear more about your story, I don't feel as dramatic when I tell people how impactful these little devices can be. I'm glad you have a traveling companion to learn the ropes with, it's definitely more fun that way!
Good to see you again my friend. Hope all is well! Get out and have lots of fun!
Thank you for tuning in, hope to see you again on the road this summer! I think we have sites booked next to each other in NC!
I'm camping in my new trail boss (first trip) sitting by the fire watching this video lol
Thats awesome! I was out in my teardrop,while this video was released, hope you had a good time!
@DIYOutdoorLife had a wonderful time, thank you! Hope your trip was good 👍
Teardrops/tiny campers have a big appeal to lots of us. I've never wanted a large RV, and certainly don't want to tow one. I've camped my whole life and enjoy car camping, backpack camping, and especially motorcycle camping. The car/family camping evolved into eyeing teardrops. I like that they force you outside. I'll happily sit under an awning in the rain and cook a meal and coffee. Expanding a small camper's functionality with tongue boxes, 12v fridges, hot water/showers, PPS's, solar, and all the myriad things we do makes them more robust, and allows us to tinker/fix/upgrade things which so many of us love to do. I've learned a lot about all of it from watching your channel and reading the posts of other owners who have so many good ideas and varying skill sets. Great communities form around the ecosystem and allow for new friendships, sharing of ideas, and getting together on trips.
I would much rather have a very well-built teardrop, but the BW fit my budget at the time and it has largely served me well. I could see myself investing in something with better quality out the factory door in the future, but for the foreseeable future the BW does the job. And I'll never feel like I use it enough!!
I'm with you, it's definitely the right fit and I like mild tinkering. With this build, I was looking for something that differentiated from the Bushwhacker, but had a lot of overlapping qualities. A little higher quality was a must.
Love this! Thanks for sharing the ferns and the background. You’re right that it’s always interesting when it’s authentic-and that’s what I’ve loved about your style since the beginning. #bravo
Thank you, it means a lot that you tune into the channel and enjoy!
You tease! Lookin forward to more content. Thanks!
Haha.. sorry Trailer reveal coming soon!
Definitely miss Cosmo. Any idea of what he passed from?
He's definitely missed a ton. He was sick for a bit, but I wanna protect his family's privacy.
10 years into retirement I realized one thing that I loved to do in my youth before starting my career and that was camping and exploring. My career took 60-80 hours a week from my life so for 30+ years I missed out on that hobby. Now at my age I wanted something that would keep me off the ground and that was a rooftop tent. It fit in my 4x4 Tacoma enabling me to go further into remote areas. I really got into it and then decided it would be nice to have something with more protection from the elements but I didn’t want the expense or hassle of a large trailer to pay for storage and all the issues that come along with a large trailer. My HOA will not allow RV storage. That’s when I started looking into tiny teardrops. Fits in the garage, light enough to pull easily with not only my Tacoma but my Outback as well and small enough to pull into more remote areas. I live in the west so boondocking is plentiful. I bought a NuCamp Tag xl and that’s when I stumbled onto your channel. It has been a wealth of information that has made this hobby so much more enjoyable. You absolutely right when you say the camper sits there asking for another adventure. I can’t get enough of it now and find myself constantly looking for the next adventure. Thank you for all your great content and helpful information.
This is a great story, I'm so glad that you found the channel! The t@g boondock looks like a ton of fun. Wishing you all the best with a lot of great camping trips coming!
Awesome congratulations
Thank you for tuning in!
Can you shed any light on what happened to Cosmo?
I know that he was ill for a bit, I want to respect his families privacy. 🙏🏻
@@DIYOutdoorLife Understand thanks
Hello Brian! Congratulations on your new addition!!!
I am SO happy I found your channel. I live in upstate New York and absolutely love the Adirondack mountains, and my goal has always been to spend more time there. I don’t have a camper yet, but it is a dream and I’m doing all my research and homework because I need a camper that “fits me”! I am all of 5’ 1” so I need something that I can manage solo. I also have two daughters and two granddaughters who I will be camping with often (although probably not all at once without an additional tent! I have also never been out west and want to tour all of the major national parks.
My questions for you are as follows:
Would you consider a video that reviews Small fiberglass campers like a Casita, Scamp, Escape vs. teardrop like Intech Luna Rover, Hiker, Runaway?
I would also heard about campers with trailers that have rusted to the point they are not roadworthy and would LOVE to know what your recommendations/experience is with this given I live in one of the Snow/Road Salt capitals of the 🇺🇸. An in-depth video on best winter campers and maintenance practices would be awesome.
Thank you for sharing your experiences and knowledge!!! Be blessed!
Not that Brian wouldn't do all this for you (he would), but this work has already been done on a channel called Playing With Sticks. Drew, his wife May,, and their two boys have covered almost every kind of teardrop camper type and situation you can think of. I highly recommend you check his channel out.
I'm so happy that you've been tuning in! I will do my best to feature all the campers that I can find, they are my favorite videos to make. There is no doubt that salty road conditions can reallllllly impact our trailers. The name of the game is keeping it clean, even when it's difficult. Although they are definitely going to rust, they generally don't get to the point of disrepair unless they are neglected. After three years of constant use, including in the winter, I am very impressed with the frame on the bushwhacker. I try to keep it clean and do a little touchup paint once in a while, it looks almost brand new.
PLS is great, they do an amazing job featuring tons of options for people!
Wow, you sure know how to keep a turkey in suspense! I was hoping to get the big reveal on the new camper!
We got started on teardrop camping around the same time and for the same reason as you guys, the pandemic! Where things differ a bit is, we bought a Tesla in early 2020 and tried camping in it cuz it has “camp mode”. But that was just a bit too tight to try and fit all our gear into the car. So, we purchased a little guy teardrop because it seemed to be one of the lighter and smaller trailers which, weight and size can significantly affect range towing with an electric car.
Thanks for all your help and guidance in diy-ing our trailer to help us suit our needs!
I still think that's too cool. I love that you're able to go camping and charge both set up, I'm tired of buying gas... lol
I was lucky enough to see your new camper right after you got it. I was so glad to see it did not have shin knocking scissor jacks on the back! Looking forward to the new videos!
Haha. I think you did more than just see it.... 😀
Thank you Brian for another great video.
I started out as a kid in tents, popups and a 1960s travel trailer. When my kids were young we had a fiberglass egg then a converted school bus. Some years after kids were gone we re-entered in a popup and I just retired and bought a TT. I found your channel looking for real life solar information that was not over sized for simple battery maintenance. You replied back to my questions with the confirmation that what I did purchase was all I need for now. You are an inspiration and great resource for reviews. I will remain subscribed as long as you allow me to learn from you. Congratulations on your newest upgrade I am excited as my brother is dealing on a Bushwacker Plus 17. Be well be safe. I seen a Vistabule in Dickinson ND last year.
Thank you for watching the videos, I really appreciate that you stay tuned in! Happy camping ⛺️
Would love to see how you would hook up an inverter to your camper
I'm going to have some content coming up with inverter installation. Definitely an exciting device that gives you some options.
I enjoyed hearing your story. Its a nice change up from all the techy camper videos. My Wife and I have been married for 38 years, this Nov it will be 39. We raised three children and back then we eventually got a pop up trailer. After a few years we switched to a hybrid and eventually stopped camping when our Yukon XL had a transmission issue. Years later after all the kids were gone, my Wife was going to retire. I really needed something to distract her, keep her busy and get us out of the house to exercise. I normally do not make big decisions without her, but I wanted to surprise her with a new car and trailer on her last day of work. After the big reveal, it took us six months of waiting to get our license plate. Now that we have it, we have gone out twice camping. Its really hot here and I don't have an air conditioner. Not sure when we will go out again, but next year we are planning on getting out there more. I really want to see Joshua Tree and Death Valley, maybe November we can get out there.
That's a great story, I enjoy hearing how people relate to using RVs getting outdoors. I hope that you're able to seek some cooler weather and get some more trips in with the Mrs! Thank you for swinging by and commenting.
Any chance on a tutorial video about properly upgrading to lithium batteries - protecting the tow vehicle’s alternator, battery isolators, DC-to-DC chargers, inverters and converters, etc? Your other videos on those sorts of topics have been very helpful.
Yes sir, I have that exact video planned. I will do a multi part series and try to cover everything.
Thank you!
hey Brian, I had posted about Cosmo being my influence for getting a TD... do you know where my original post went???
No, RUclips does mysterious things with deleting comments. I'll see if it pops into my comment purgatory section.
Thank you for tuning in!
Ohh! if you only would have said "Planes, trains, and automobiles."
Hahaha...
Hahaha no reveal! The old Gypsy Rose Lee trick! It'll keep people coming back 🙂 This comment is coming to you from Jenny Jump State Forest, about 25 miles east of the Delaware Water Gap. I'm out with...my old North Face Stormtrack 3 tent!. As you know, my wife's mobility issues keep us from having a teardrop, as she requires that self-contained bathroom. And while I haven't completely fixed the electrical issues, I just bypass them by hooking up 3 200W solar panels in series and feeding the PPS, which is plugged into the unit's 30A plug. We use the Class 3 when we camp together, but I have been experimenting with simpler and simpler solo camping setups. Using a rooftop carrier, I can now pack my Toyota Matrix with everything I need, and still create an indoor bed if necessary. I bought an Honda Trail 125 and am planning some close-to-home motocamping trips. I've been camping since my teenage years as a Boy Scout (Onteora, baby!), but with both of us now in our early 70s, we have to find less taxing ways to camp, since the actual work of camping can be strenuous now. 20 years ago I invested in a 20-acre parcel of land, and that's our go-to site. A 6-hour drive in a Class C is not that much fun anymore; better to drive 40 minutes and be camping. OK I'll shut up now and wait for the BIG REVEAL!
I promise I wasn't trying for Clickbait… But I guess that's what I did. I was so afraid that if I put the reveal out this week, I would get 500 comments asking if I sold the Bushwhacker, didn't want to speak about that during the reveal....
As always, I love your practical approach. Some of the more romantic ideas fade as we do this a lot. It's amazing to be outdoors and have a nice shelter, but 12 hour driving days and nonstop. maintenance cant be ignored... simple is good.
I first saw either a T@G or T@B about 22 years ago and loved the idea of it, but we weren't at a point in our lives to really act on that desire. Then about 10 years ago I started looking at the RPods. Lurked on the Facebook page. Saw all the problems with water intrusion, black and grey water piping, and blown tires and destroyed fenders. Finally decided on a Colorado Teardrop in 2021. Ordered one and it was ready 13 long months later. We love it! Try to get out at least once a month. Have to skip July and August since we are in OK, but don't have AC. Disappointed when Colorado Teardrop went belly up in January. We are looking to upgrade to one with an AC and propane heat soon. Love your channel.
Hiker trailers are good
@@angieamarillo We are going to rent an Escapod later this month.
Thank you for sharing the story, I think a lot of people can relate. I too looked at some of the same campers and saw the same problems. Even though the Bushwhacker had problems, I knew it was something that I could handle and the price was right. I was bummed to hear about Colorado teardrop going under as well, I hope you find something that you love. The escapade is great, and like the other person said, Hiker is pretty awesome as well.
I agree, Hiker is awesome
Brian, I wonder if I can contact you somehow. I have a question on your Installing Master Switch on Camper Trailer | RV Kill Switch Video, Is this possible? Thanks
Bruce Lathrop, Valencia, CA
Diyoutdoorcontent@gmail.com
Happy to help if I can!
@@DIYOutdoorLife OK, thanks. I have added the same switch on the outside of my Aliner's battery box. No problem. I have also added two outside battery posts, so I do not have to open the battery box to charge the battery. Not withstanding the switch, how do I hook up the outside posts? I want an easy external method of charging the battery even when all the battery's wires are still connected. Thank you !
@@brucelathrop29 how do you wanna charge the battery? If you want a wall (utility power) charger, can you just attach that to the external battery post when you would like to charge?
Are you trying to use the onboard charger that came installed on your Aliner?
Solar?
Should be pretty straightforward, just have to understand your scenario
Wtf ? Didnt show the new trailer? A bit of clickbait and didnt expect it….
Sorry friend, I knew this was gonna be an issue, but it wasn't my intention. I have the trailer reveal video coming out, and I was afraid if I didn't discuss the backstory, I was gonna upset other people thinking I sold my usual trailer. Didn't mean to leave you hanging.
@@DIYOutdoorLife okay i forgive you …lol. Looking forward to it !
No reveal...rip
Sorry 😞 didn't mean to rip people off with the teaser video. I was afraid if I didn't put a video like this out first, I would have to discuss all of this stuff during the reveal video so people didn't think I sold my original rig. Reveal coming soon!
@@DIYOutdoorLife all good, still love the content
Hey Brian! So good to see you again! I have worked my way up to a 20ft class C. I started in my minivan, then a little squaredrop that I never got to take out. I love my camper so much. It's my vacation home. Even just a few days at a time to go somewhere else, and it doesn't have to be far. I love the fact that, by now...I've got it situated the way I want. It stays on the ready so I just need to pack clothes and food and I can go. I've had fun making simple changes and creating a space that is so comfortable and cozy. I came to your channel for the teardrop/tiny camper info. I stick around because you are an excellent teacher and enjoyable person to watch. I'm looking forward to seeing the new rig and all the cool stuff you're gonna do to it.
Thank you so much for continuing to watch the channel. It's really cool that you've worked your way up in that way and found something that works great for you. I think we both appreciate having a ready to go vacation on wheels!
Grew up in a large family so tent camping is how we took vacations. Camped with my kids a few times, but it was a lot of work without another adult to help so it came less frequently for many years. Started camping with my daughter and her family and then met my husband. The day before we got married he bought a small toy hauler so we could camp and take our motorcycles. Within a year we had moved up in size, but it was too big for our truck and before you could say motorhome we were in a 34' Class C. It was going to be perfect for trips with the grandkids, except the grandkids moved away and grew up. Just a few months ago we downsized to our Bushwhacker 10HD. Still setting things up and cannot wait to be on the road again and sleeping where there are more stars than lights.
People who have a lot of backpacking/tent camping experience do the best in teardrops! It feels like having your cake and eating it too... keeping it simple and fast, but having a solid shelter with less set up!
Thanks for watching the channel!
Bummer, watched the entire video entitled I got a new camper, and we did not even get a single glimpse of it 😢. 😂. Good to see you again now please show us the camper!
I'm sorry, I really didn't wanna do some click bait, but I guess I did. Trailer review coming very soon. I mainly wanted to make sure I got this video out ahead of the review so people didn't think I sold the bushwhacker 😂
So happy to have found you through Cosmo. Miss him very much. Enjoying all your content. Congratulations on a new camper! 🎉😊
I'm happy you found us too, and that you stuck around! Thank you for tuning into the channel, lots more to come.
Missing Cosmo a lot 🙏🏻
I’m very happy for you! I wish I could afford a camper, oh well at least I can I joy your traveling!
I really appreciate you turning into the channel, I hope that you're able to find something for the right price point. In the meantime, certainly nothing wrong with car and tent camping, I still try to do that on the cheap.
The packing up in the rain was what sold me on the tear drop. Lock up and go was so nice.
It really is the best part, it always rains when I'm packing...
That’s awesome, man! Pumped for you and the adventures ahead!
Appreciate you tuning in, lots of content coming!
Great news! Can't wait to see your new trailer.
I've been filming lots of content, I can't wait to start releasing the new videos!
I wanted to try and build a vardo on a utility trailer. But my utility trailer order got delayed. By the time I bought a used one, situation had changed. I moved cross country. Finally got in a position to buy a trailer again. I wanted something with minimal systems, easy to tow. I always like the looks of the T@gs, so that's what I found. Just retired and am taking this out for my first trip. It will be fun!
Congratulations, that's very exciting! Youll love the t@g, it's a nice, long lasting, simple teardrop ⛺️
As newish empty nesters and experienced TT owners now 5x over in a 23 year period, the current perfect amalgamation of TT for our current weekend warrior situation is an A-frame type called a (2023) Forest River Flagstaff T12RBST. The biggest improvement in this choice of TT is the fact that you can store it a standard sized garage so it is constantly charged and ready to adventure in less than 20 minutes or so.
NOT having to pay a 3rd party storage lot fee is FREEING.
Looking forward to seeing your new rig. ✌🏼
I agree with you, and they have some major improvements over standard pop-ups. I've definitely kept a close eye on that A-frame design over the years! Thanks for watching!