Along with the tiny house and minimalism movements, teardrop trailers have exploded in popularity. It’s the result of people focusing more on experiences instead of accumulating possessions.
There are plenty of benefits of camping in a teardrop trailer. First, they’re an affordable way to travel for people who want to see more of the country or road trip. They also make a great base camp for bikers, climbers, hikers, skiers, or surfers. And as long as you don’t mind smaller living quarters, you can enjoy more time outdoors and make more memories in a teardrop camper.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about these tiny trailers. We start with the basics of what are teardrop trailers and why so many people love them. If you’ve already done some research and are ready to shop, jump to our list of the best teardrop trailers you can buy right now.
Table of Contents
- What is a teardrop trailer?
- Why are teardrop trailers so popular?
- Do teardrop trailers have bathrooms?
- How much do teardrop trailers weigh?
- How much do teardrop trailers cost?
- Financial options for purchasing a teardrop trailer or pop-up camper
- Teardrop trailers vs. Pop-up campers: How are they different?
- Choosing your teardrop trailer or pop-up camper
- General RV’s Favorite Teardrop Trailers & Pop-up Campers
- Best Overall Teardrop Trailer
- Best Budget Teardrop Trailer
- Best Teardrop Trailer for Families
- Honorable Mentions
- Best Pop-up Campers
- Conclusion: Are teardrop trailers or pop-up campers worth it?
What is a teardrop trailer?
Teardrop trailers are a small, towable type of RV. They are easy to recognize thanks to their distinct shape – round on one end and (typically) tapered on the other. Since these RVs are compact, they are lightweight and easy to tow.
Teardrops have been around since the early 1930s. For many decades, these campers were a basic unit, offering just a bed, kitchen and a few other simple extras. In recent years, teardrops have experienced an unprecedented revival, and many now offer something much different. The simplest trailers consist of a bedroom on wheels. Larger floorplans can have multiple beds, a kitchen and dining area and a bathroom.
Take a look at some examples from the outside…
…and here’s what’s inside
Why are teardrop trailers so popular?
There’s been a huge surge in popularity for teardrop trailers over the past few decades. Due to their compact footprint, these RVs are ideal for adventurers who plan shorter trips and want basic amenities. They’re also a great option for camping at state and national parks. Campsites at these parks are often smaller and don’t have as much room to maneuver a larger RV, but that’s no problem for a teardrop trailer.
Teardrop fans love the clever designs and vintage aesthetic of these trailers. It’s common for owners to decorate their tiny trailers with chic fabrics and unique accessories. Some gather at rallies like Tearstock with others who share their passion.
Do teardrop trailers have bathrooms?
Some teardrop trailers include a bathroom in its floorplan. Similar to Class B motorhomes, teardrop RVs often utilize swivel toilets, folding sinks, faucets that double as shower heads and more to make the small floorplan highly functional. Most teardrop trailer bathrooms will be equipped with a marine-style toilet, a conserving shower sprayer and pedal flush. The wet baths are enclosed to keep the water in and prevent it from leaking.
How much do teardrop trailers weigh?
Teardrop trailers typically weigh less than 4,000 lbs. Because of their compact size and lightweight construction, they can be towed by smaller vehicles – think light-duty trucks, crossovers, SUVs and family vans. One of the lightest options available is the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 12SRK; this RV has a dry weight of just 1,585 lbs. Slightly longer but weighing in similarly, the Travel Lite Rove Lite 14BH measures 15 feet and 4 inches and weighs just over 1,600 lbs. The Rove Lite 14BH is great for families since it features a dinette that converts to a bed plus a sofa bed and overhead bunk!
How much do teardrop trailers cost?
Due to their small size, teardrops trailers are among the more affordable RVs you can buy. Prices vary, but many range from under $20,000 to over $40,000. Keep in mind that the price is highly dependent on what features and upgrades you choose. You can get everything from off-road tires to solar power packages installed.
If you’re shopping for a teardrop trailer (or any RV for that matter), we highly recommend attending an RV show to see what options work best for you. Since teardrop trailers have been around for a while, there are plenty of pre-owned options out there. If you’re on a budget, be sure to check out used RVs for sale as they can cost significantly less than buying new.
Financial options for purchasing a teardrop trailer or pop-up camper
A number of financial options are available when it comes to purchasing your teardrop trailer or pop-up camper. While some may pay in cash, most will finance their purchase over the course of several months. Monthly payments can be reduced by providing a large down payment at purchase. This could also help secure a lower interest rate, leading to even more savings long-term. Many RV dealers and banks offer great financing options.
Creating an RV budget will help you stay within your financial boundaries and help narrow your teardrop trailer and pop-up camper search. Be sure to also include parts or accessory upgrades, regular preventative maintenance and RV insurance in your budget. You will also need to account for storage costs if you are unable to store your teardrop trailer or pop-up camper on your property when not in use. RVing is growing in popularity at an exponential rate because it can be enjoyed on nearly any budget. Read about some ways to save money while RVing.
Teardrop trailers vs. Pop-up campers: How are they different?
When it comes to smaller RVs that are easy to tow, teardrop trailers and pop-up campers are the more popular choices. While both provide unique benefits, they also come with their own disadvantages. Understanding the differences between these two types of RV trailers can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your travel and camping needs.
Pop-up campers, also referred to as tent trailers, are expandable trailers with walls made of canvas or similar sturdy materials. These RVs come in a range of sizes, including several bed and kitchen options. Similar to teardrop trailers, pop-up campers are more affordable and easier to tow than traditional travel trailers. Pop-up campers are designed to have optimal storage and space for the entire family.
However, unlike teardrop trailers, pop-up campers require a bit of setup once you arrive at camp. The set-up process can be as tedious as setting up a tent for some and way more involved than simply pulling up to your campsite in a trailer that is ready to go.
Choosing your teardrop trailer or pop-up camper
When you’re choosing a teardrop trailer, you’ll want to ask yourself the same questions you’d ask when buying any other RV. Two of the most important questions are: How or where you plan to camp and who will be going with you. Knowing the answers to these questions will help you determine what features you’ll need and what options will be nice to have.
If you want to bring all your extended family and friends, a teardrop trailer probably isn’t for you. But if you are a solo traveler, couple or small family, you’ve got several options. In the next section, we’ll share a few of our favorites.
General RV’s Favorite Teardrop Trailers & Pop-up Campers
Today, more RV manufacturers are offering teardrop trailers and pop-up campers in response to increased demand from adventure seekers. That’s great news for long-time and first-time owners. With an abundance of floorplans and options, you can find one that’s right for your travel style. Below, we’ve selected some of our favorite teardrop trailers and pop-up campers to spotlight so you can start shopping with confidence.
Best Overall Teardrop Trailer
Modern Buggy RV Little Buggy 12LRK
The Little Buggy 12LRK from Modern Buggy RV is our favorite overall teardrop trailer for its features and floorplan. Boasting a rugged exterior, off-roading capabilities and a modern interior, Modern Buggy trailers are designed to explore. Modern Buggy trailers were created to offer an affordable RV solution for families to enjoy the outdoors. Towable by almost any vehicle and packed with all the necessities like large refrigerators and climate controls for all seasons, this teardrop trailer allows you to experience the outdoors with ease.
The Little Buggy 12LRK offers the easiest way to get outdoors. Featuring Light Lead Solar panels and an all-weather kitchen galley, it is the perfect trailer for new campers and veteran campers alike. Enjoy a good night’s rest protected from the elements on a comfy, six-inch memory foam mattress that converts into a sofa. Indoor quarters are big enough to sleep two adults comfortably. There’s plenty of room to store your necessities indoors with three cubbies and four enclosed cabinets inside, all custom-built with premium birch wood.
Best Budget Teardrop Trailer
Travel Lite RV Rove Lite 14BH
The Travel Lite RV Rove Lite 14BH is our pick for the best budget teardrop trailer. Featuring an aerodynamic teardrop design crafted from revolutionary Hydro-Lite material, the Rove Lite is one of the most affordable travel trailers on the market and light enough to pull behind even the smallest of vehicles.
The Rove Lite features a sleek, European-style build including a composite floor and aluminum chassis. All interior panels are Azdel composite and the seamless poured resin fiberglass roof is one piece from bumper to hitch. Interior features include a convertible sofa bed and a bunk above offering more sleeping space as well. The cook has a two-burner, stainless steel stovetop and a three-way refrigerator to make meals and store drinks. Everyone will stay fresh and clean using the wet bath with indoor shower and foot flush toilet.
Not to mention, the Rove Lite’s safety and sustainability features are nothing short of extraordinary. All models are strapped by a moisture-blocking, no-substrate fiberglass sidewall with two-pound fire-retardant block foam insulation that’s impervious to heat.
Best Teardrop Trailers for Families
Coachmen RV Clipper 9000ROK
Our choice for the best teardrop trailer for traveling with family is the Coachmen RV Clipper 9000ROK.
The Clipper ROK features basic off-road adventure amenities by providing you with 74-inch gaucho seating that pulls out into a bed. There is open shelving along the front wall for your things, plus a clothing wardrobe. A rear overhead cabinet offers more space to store your gear, and the rear hatch provides a place for you to create meals and snacks while you explore. There is a slide-out griddle, a 3.3 cu. ft. 12-volt refrigerator for your cold items, and a single sink and overhead cabinet. There is also a 9-foot manual awning for added outdoor living, plus additional storage.
These Clipper ROK off-road teardrop trailers allow you to camp anywhere you want, even off the beaten path. Each Clipper ROK features an E-Coated tubular steel frame for strength and a flipped axle for better ground clearance, plus four layers of roof insulation including a one-piece seamless skin with Lauan plywood underlayment to provide added protection. Four heavy-duty scissor style jacks provide stability when setting up, and the wide-track ultra-lube spring axle and electric brakes provide smooth travel to and from your favorite camping locations. A 5K BTU furnace will keep you warm on chilly nights, and the 5,000 BTU AC and tinted windows will keep you cool when it is warm. The rear hatch camp kitchen makes it easy to create meals on the go with a slide-out griddle, sink and refrigerator.
Honorable Mentions
Modern Buggy RV Big Buggy 14 teardrop trailer
The Big Buggy 14 teardrop trailer by Modern Buggy RV is small enough to tow behind almost any vehicle, but mighty enough to take you off-road and exploring deep into the woods. A front U-shaped dinette converts to cozy space for extra sleepers. A Dometic microwave and a two-burner stove, plus an Ever Chill refrigerator provide the necessities for making any meal. Clean up each day in the wet bath that includes a two-way bath vent fan plus a Dometic toilet. The exterior storage door will keep all your gear secure, and the torsion axle will provide smooth towing from home to campground. There are also a variety of exterior graphics packages you can choose from that best fit your style.
Forest River RV RPOD RP-192 teardrop trailer
A true queen Murphy bed fits spaciously inside the R Pod RP-192 teardrop trailer from Forest River RV. The simple one-latch Murphy bed design benefits from a longer trailer in a 22-foot layout. The sofa and dinette designs provide an open-concept feel despite there being no slide outs. The kitchen boasts unique features like the large pantry, 6 cubic-foot dual gas-electric refrigerator, tons of storage, a central vacuum and natural lighting provided by a massive panoramic door-side window.
The rear full bath features everything you will need to get refreshed each morning, as well as a large wardrobe to store your linens. There is plenty of storage space inside, but ample space for all of your gear in the exterior pass-through storage. The large solar panel will provide off-grid capabilities, plus there is a 2,000W inverter and 30 amp charge controller for added convenience.
inTech Luna teardrop trailer
The Luna teardrop trailer by inTech RV allows you to fulfil your adventurous lifestyle! With premium amenities and conveniences, you’ll have everything you need while you’re away from home.
The Luna’s interior is designed to maximize space, and the panoramic windshield provides natural light and views to stream in. If you enjoy cooking outdoors, you’re going to love the rear hatch kitchen inspired by today’s modern kitchens, and you can add an optional awning so you can dine outdoors without battling the elements. Choose between the Base Package with sporty decals and premium 15-inch aluminum wheels or the Rover Package with rugged decals, an adjustable roof rack and integrated side steps.
inTech Flyer Pursue teardrop trailer
With the Flyer Pursue teardrop travel trailer by inTech RV, you have the freedom to soar into any adventure. This teardrop trailer has a versatile interior with a queen bed for comfortable rest any day or night. The Flyer Pursue also has an optional kitchen slide. This innovative feature sets up in seconds.
With the all-aluminum, all-tube cage frame, the Flyer Pursue was built with lightweight and long-lasting materials. The Flyer Pursue has a rugged design to confidently explore new territory and go where traditional RVs cannot. The Flyer has a 2-inch rear receiver rated for 175 pounds to bring along your bikes, and the front tongue box is the perfect storage solution that is easily accessible and out of the interior. The optional roof rack will allow you to bring along kayaks, and the optional A/C with heat is perfect for keeping conditions just right.
Best Pop-up Campers
Coachmen RV Clipper 108ST
Getting to the campsite and setting up once you’re there has never been easier than with the Coachmen RV Clipper 108ST folding pop-up camper. The two tent end queen insulated beds fold out to provide more interior space and an openness you will enjoy with all the views. The dinette and gaucho bed offer plenty of seating as well as extra sleeping space. The chef will have a two-burner range beside the deep single bowl acrylic sink to make meals with residential laminated countertops providing space for various extras.
Each Clipper folding pop-up camper by Coachmen RV is built on an E-coated tubular steel frame with a Wide Trac ultra lube spring axle and a four-layer laminated seamless roof. The exclusive cable supported structured platform bed system and the J-track metal door hook system provide a comfortable and flexibility RV experience.
Aliner Scout
The Scout A-frame camper by Aliner was designed for traditional tent campers who want or need more than a tent. Scout offers the essential amenities, as well as quality construction, affordability and ample storage space for all your gear. With a roof over your head and a nice soft bed to sleep on, you’ll find Scout is the perfect platform from which to launch all your outdoor adventures.
The Aliner Scout is easy to tow, set up and store when the fun is over. Inside you will find ample storage for your gear, as well as a dinette and a sofa bed – both of which covert to sleeping space. The dinette converts to a 46-inch x 76-inch bed, and there is storage under the seats. There are more features such as three electrical outlets inside, one outlet outside, high density foam, hypoallergenic cushions and mattress, a high-power vent fan and more. The Aliner Scout also comes equipped with city water hookups, a full-size radial spare tire with carrier and four stabilizer jacks.
When you want quality construction and essential amenities on your next camping trip, choose the affordable Aliner Scout A-frame camper and start exploring.
Conclusion: Are teardrop trailers or pop-up campers worth it?
For those who love the outdoors but want some of the amenities of home, a small camper might be the perfect choice. They’re more comfortable than sleeping in a tent and easier to setup than a large RV. Since they weigh so little, they’re easy to maneuver into remote sites and most vehicles with a hitch can tow one.
Plus, hauling a teardrop trailer or pop-up camper won’t reduce your MPG like a heavier, conventional travel trailer so your gas dollars go farther. Since they are so popular, you can also find great deals on previously owned campers. In short, if you live for being active in the outdoors, you’ll enjoy your adventures even more with a teardrop trailer or pop-up camper behind you.
Ready to begin your RV adventure?
Each of these teardrop trailers and pop-up campers offers its own unique blend of features and amenities, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your camping adventures. Whether you prioritize compactness, affordability or family-friendly design, General RV has a teardrop trailer or pop-up camper that’s sure to meet your needs.
Our goal at General RV is to be your premier RV partner and your one-stop shop for all your RV needs. For your convenience, we have in-house financing options and work with an RV insurance partner. Plus, you’ll find all the RV parts and accessories you need in our Supercenters. We also have more than 600 state-of-the-art RV service bays across our nationwide network.