Words by Steve Fennell
Given their compact design, light weight, and essential-only features, teardrop trailers are a popular option among RVers. Used by many enthusiasts – from suburbanites to outdoorsmen and seasoned travelers, they provide an easy and efficient means of RV travel.
Deciding on the type of teardrop depends on your lifestyle, where you want to go and what you want to do. Good things do come in small packages and like many classes of RVs, they are available in a range of styles from rugged off-road units with torsion axles, high-clearances and aluminum diamond-plated exterior hardware to small family- or couple-friendly designs with all the bells and whistles to enjoy camping in plush style.
A step-up from a tent or an option when down-sizing, there are more to teardrops than meets the eye, and choosing one is a fun experience as you get acquainted with the unique designs and towing capabilities.
Timberleaf Trailers
Go anywhere, anytime. Seen here is The Classic from Timberleaf Trailers.
Why Consider One?
One benefit of choosing a teardrop is the ability to go further off-grid while still providing comfort and protection from the elements. But if spending days away from civilization is just your style, need not to worry. Pull into a campground, unload your gear, set up camp and then enjoy all the outdoor activity you want. Simply put, you can enjoy a day in the wilderness, return to camp for dinner, and then get a good rest for the next day – all for the fraction of the size of a conventional trailer or motorhome.
Understanding the Construction Basics
Every trailer manufacturer touts its construction processes and teardrop trailer manufacturers are no different. Methods and materials vary from one company to the next, but more reputable builders base their design on a tubular steel- or an aluminum-framed structure for durability with a wood or composite body, while the roof and sides are covered with either seamless aluminum “skins,” composite paneling or fibreglass. Hardwood is then often used for the interior, such as tough ¾” birch plywood that’s treated with a high-quality VOC clear coat that has a clean design that’s tough and easy-to-maintain. It looks good too.
Manufacturers like Colorado Teardrop Trailers, which designs a series of quality-set units for many outdoor applications, uses hard maple for its cabin and rear galley, and then sealed with a VOC Polyurethane for a great look and added durability. Another good sign of a quality trailer is when a manufacturer utilizes CNC-technology to construct the body and other vital components. This means each panel is cut to exact specifications (without protruding corners or edges) for a precise fit that results in a solid, tough and uniform body.
Vistabule Teardrop Trailers
The slick exterior profile of the custom teardrop from Vistabule Teardrop Trailers.
Insulation, which is sandwiched in between the exterior and interior panels, should also never be overlooked, especially if you travel in cooler climates. Again, thickness and process vary and it’s always best to inquire about the insulation, especially if you travel in cooler climates. While it provides added warmth, it offers great sound insulation as well.
The floor and bottom of a teardrop is another aspect to consider. While wood is commonly used as part of the construction, some teardrops, especially those designed for off-road, will have aluminum or steel-plated flooring to ensure added strength.
Leaf Spring vs. Torsion Axles
Basically, trailer axles for teardrops come in two configurations, leaf-spring axles and torsion axles. While they more or less perform the same function of providing suspension and supporting the weight of trailer loads, they differ in style, function and moving parts.
Lex Quinn with A Quinn Photography
The Canyonland Pinnacle from Colorado Teardrops. Notice the high clearance?
Torsion axles operate with rubber cords or cartridges (rather than metal-on-metal like leaf-springs) inside the axle to support the suspension and shock absorption. As the tires run on the conditions of the road, the cords compress and provide an even wheel suspension for smoother, solid towing characteristics. Another benefit is they are bolted to the frame and extend the full width of the trailer, acting as an additional cross member for optimal rigidity and less flex while traveling on rough roads or in windy conditions.
With their many benefits, torsion axles don’t have replaceable or easily repairable parts. This means in the event of serious damage, they need to be replaced, which can be costly or very inconvenient if they break on the road. This isn’t to say they are not durable and reliable. In fact, they have very little moving parts; are designed tough; offer quiet rides; have independent wheel suspension; the ride height can be adjusted to accommodate different conditions; and maintenance is nothing more than lubing the wheel bearings.
If you’re serious about venturing into more rugged country or just want some added reliability, companies like Timbren design an axle-less suspension that maximizes off-road handling and clearance. Although available as an option from a few companies, this type of suspension might be worth looking at as an aftermarket upgrade.
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Lex Quinn with A Quinn Photography
The fit and finish of the rear galley and interior designed by Colorado Teardrops.
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Lex Quinn with A Quinn Photography
The fit and finish of the rear galley and interior designed by Colorado Teardrops.
Leaf Spring Axles
Chances are likely you’ll come across many teardrop trailers with leaf spring axles (or similar designs). This type of suspension consists of a series of curved, flat springs that are layered and then installed below the axle, thus providing a soft, cushioned ride. Some benefits include the cost (as they are less expensive than torsion axles), have low ground clearance for steady towing and effectively absorb loads while at speed or on uneven ground. Unlike torsion axles, major parts can be replaced and are widely available in the event of damage.
Determining Weight and Towing
These two factors are some of more important ones to consider when choosing a teardrop. Most “true” teardrops range in weight from just under 450 kg (1,000 lbs) to a little more than 900 kg (2,000 lbs) and in length from 3 to 4 m (10 to 13 ft).
You have probably heard that teardrops can be “towed by any vehicle.” Technically, according to the numbers, this is true. Yet, it’s best to think cross-over SUVs, or a similar style of vehicle that have towing capacities between 900 and 1814 kg (2,000 and 4,000 lbs). Why? These vehicles are more designed and engineered for towing with stronger chassis, transmissions, and efficient braking system to manage the weight of the trailer. If you’re set on towing behind a smaller vehicle, review your vehicle owner’s manual or consult with the manufacturer or dealer to prevent any damage or issues.
It’s also important to understand that most teardrop trailer manufacturers list only the weight capacities as “dry” weight only in its specifications. This relates to an empty trailer or base weight without added features, gear or personal belongings – weight adds up quickly.
Vistabule Teardrop Trailers
The galley of the Vistabule Teardrop Trailer. You’ll come across various styles and designs.
What’s in a Teardrop Trailer?
It’s incredible what type of features, options, storage solutions and interior designs are in a teardrop given their size and plush appointments on many models are not compromised. As an example, at just 3.4 m (11 ft) and an interior length of less than 2 m (7 ft) the Outing from Evolve Trailers of Aldergrove, BC, offers a wealth of comfort. In the compact space, the base model includes a queen-size foldable sofa mattress and even space for an available child/dog bunk measuring 53 x 148 cm (21 x 58 in). Some other available appointments include custom cabinetry, a drop-down cabinet table, LED lighting, and tempered-glass windows. Some exterior features like a bike hitch receiver, portable shower, roof rack and choice of awnings are also nice touches.
If you’re looking at a slightly larger model such as the NuCamp TAB S that has a length of a little more than 5 m (15 ft), you’ll have some added function with a convertible U-shape dinette, interior galley, a head with a small sink/shower, a 12V fridge, and removable table, just to name a few. While the cost increases with size, they are very towing friendly and have a ton of purpose.
Vistabule Teardrop Trailers
Despite the size, teardrops are cozy and comfortable.
Checkout More Useful Space
What makes teardrops unique to other trailers is the rear galley system, accessible by a hatch that fits flush to the exterior. If entertaining and meals are important to your outdoor lifestyle, this is an area to focus on. The hatch lifts up (in most designs) to reveal many galley appointments and storage options. Drawers, a slide-out cooktop, cooler space, shelving, and even a stainless kitchen sink with fresh water are common standards. While an innovative space on teardrops, it’s the small details that really count.
Gas-assisted struts on the hatch are always a nice touch and all hardware should be aluminum and securely fastened to withstand constant travel and the elements. Locking mechanisms for the slide-out brackets and drawers shouldn’t be overlooked either, and remain secure during travel. They should also be fitted precisely to the overall design. Also be sure to consider lighting, ample counter space – even AC outlets and USB ports for added convenience.
The list goes on regarding what to consider in a teardrop trailer. Yet, choosing the proper design, solid construction, quality materials, and popular features all contribute to finding the right rig so you can spend more quality time in the great outdoors.