Your Guide to Buying a Teardrop Camper

Last Updated on September 8, 2021 by foxintheforest

Who doesn’t want to camp with a little luxury? Teardrop campers offer an easy way to haul a cozy bed and small kitchen to even the most remote backcountry campsites. Here’s an in-depth guide to buying a teardrop camper. and what you need to know to score a great deal.

We’ll focus on what to look for when searching for a used teardrop camper. Don’t get scammed by following these helpful tips to fully inspect your travel trailer and make sure you’re buying a quality product.

I have owned my camper for almost four years now, and I’ve gotta say, it’s simply wonderful. Finding a deal on a used teardrop camper in Colorado was tough – we actually bought it in Nebraska – but we got a killer deal and it was worth the effort.

About this Guide to Buying a Teardrop Camper

There’s a lot of information when it comes to buying a teardrop camper. In this comprehensive guide we’ll cover all the basics for buying a used travel trailer. We’ll also dive into those nitty-gritty details so you can head out on your teardrop camper search with expert buying knowledge. We’ll cover:

  • When is the best time to buy a teardrop camper?
  • Should you buy new or used?
  • Where to find a deal on a teardrop trailer
  • Prices of teardrop campers
  • What to look for when buying a used teardop camper
  • Quick teardrop camping tips
  • Additional camping resources

When is the Best Time to Buy a Teardrop Trailer?

You can easily purchase a travel trailer, new or used, any time of year, however, some seasons are better than others. If you go to buy a teardrop trailer during the spring and summer months, you’ll likely have the most inventory to choose from. Also, you’ll immediately be able to use it since it’s prime time for camping and boondocking. However, you’ll also be paying top dollar.

The fall is the best time to buy a camper. People who didn’t use their trailers over the summer will likely be looking to sell, so the used teardrop camper market will have plenty of options.

The season is also over, so travel trailer dealers will be more open to making a deal. Plus, the fall is the best season for camping, so you’ll still have plenty of time to take her on the road.

Winter is another good time to buy since it’s the off-season and a lot of dealers will be looking to get inventory off of their lot. If you’re buying a used trailer, you might find that there is less to choose from in the winter. Also, it will be harder to get your trailer out if you live in a snowy climate.

Should I Buy a New or Used Travel Trailer?

Travel trailers and teardrop campers are the hip new way to get around. They are cheaper than a van and don’t require extra engine maintenance. However, they have become quite pricey due to their increase in popularity.

It’s easy to find a good deal on a used travel trailer if you know where to look and what to look for. You will likely save thousands of dollars if you buy a used teardrop camper.

Buying new is certainly an option, but just like buying a new car, the value of your teardrop camper will drop the second you drive it off the lot. Buying a gently used teardrop trailer is surprisingly easy and you don’t have to break the bank to do it.

Where to Buy a Used Teardrop Trailer?

My best advice is to troll Craigslist like that troll that won’t stop commenting on every political Facebook post. Search for things like “travel trailer,” “teardrop camper,” “mini camper” and more. Facebook Marketplace is also a good place to search.

Avoid large metropolitan areas and look at secondary cities instead. For example, we found ours by looking in Omaha, a far-cry from Denver. Sure we had to drive a bit, but the same camper here in town would have cost us two grand more, simply because we live in Denver.

Tips for buying a teardrop camper

How Much Should a Teardrop Camper Cost?

The price range on teardrop campers is insane. At first glance, you can pay anywhere from $3,000 to $30,000 when buying a teardrop camper.

The price largely depends on what you want with your teardrop camper. If you want a larger space with room to walk around and a bathroom, you’re going to pay more. If you want an ultra-lifted model built for overlanding it’s also going to cost you.

The average used teardrop camper should cost anywhere form $4,000 to $8,000. The ultra-pricey models, like T@Bs and off-road worthy vehicles you’ll pay a lot for just the name.

We’ve taken our teardrop trailer on some pretty burly roads. We upgraded the tires to give it more lift and there isn’t much the trailer can’t handle (within reason).

What to Look for When Buying a Teardrop Camper

Alright, so you’ve got some cash and it’s time to buy a teardrop trailer. Perhaps you’re looking at a mini teardrop camper, or maybe you’re getting something a bit larger and more family-friendly. Be an informed consumer with this list of what to look for when buying a teardrop camper.

You Don’t Need Every Bell and Whistle

The best teardrop camper is a simple teardrop camper. Solar panels, fully-piped propane, knobby tires, and a big lift may look cool, but you really don’t need those things to enjoy a teardrop camper. Decide on the things that are difficult to change, such as mattress size, back hatch type, and storage layout.

If you’re handy, you can add a few bells and whistles later. For example, we installed a pull-out countertop that doubles as an interior desk with a few simple cuts of wood as well as a gear rack on the exterior.

It is cheaper to size up wheels and tires than it is to buy it already completed. For bigger projects, such as solar, consider if you really need it. Most campers that have power will charge as you tow them.

There are countless little DIY teardrop trailer upgrades you can do on your own. You’ll be paying a lofty price if you purchase it already tricked out.

Pay Attention to the Title

This is a double-edged sword. If you’re buying a used camper, make sure the title actually exists. Next, you’ll want to check if it’s a salvage title.

Our camper got dented at the manufacturer and the previous owner bought it as a salvaged title. Nothing is wrong with our camper, it works and looks just fine. Although we got a cheaper price because of the title, I certainly paid for it with three separate trips to the DMV.

Know what you are getting into prior to purchasing a used camper. Make sure you have all the paperwork with you to avoid having to track down the previous owner for a few signatures. This varies by state, but you can always call the DMV and ask prior to pick-up.

how to maintain a teardrop camper
We’ve had to come up with some quick solutions to some tricky problems on the road. Always inspect screws and door hardware prior to purchase.

Check for Mold, Rot, and Caulking

Mold, rot, caulking, and insulation are key factors for a healthy trailer. A good quality camper is insulated, this is a no-brainer. Check under the trailer for moldy floorboards. Get in the camper and feel around for any soft spots on the floor, this is likely a sign of rot (corners are usually weaknesses where water can get in). Inspect other areas, such as the kitchen and any shelving as well.

Inspect the caulking along seams and edges on the exterior of the camper. Caulking is a simple fix, all you need to do is cut out the old caulking and purchase an RV-specific caulking or silicone-based caulk and recaulk the seams. However, this can certainly be a bargaining chip when buying a travel trailer.

Teardrop campers that have been stored outside year-round should raise a red flag. Over time the weather and UV exposure can do quite a bit of damage that you might not see at first.

Inspect the Tires

Great tires are the key to the best teardrop campers. Think of it this way, you wouldn’t go on a hike without the right footwear, so why would you tow a trailer with crappy tires?

Does the camper come with a spare tire? If not, consider asking for a lower price. Are the tires a size that is easy to find and replace? What do the treads look like? If the treads are warped or wearing thin you should pay less. Tires aren’t the cheapest items in the world, and this will add some cost. Use this as a bargaining tool when buying a travel trailer.

If the tires are tiny or come in a weird size consider how that will affect your travel and maintenance on the teardrop trailer. Ideally, you’ll want 15-inch tires. Most trailer tires are around 14 inches.

Upgrade the wheels and tires once the treads are worn. If the expiration date on the tires is more than five years old, you may want to consider replacing them to avoid an unwanted flat.

tips for buying a camper

Ask About the Electrical

Electrical details are always important, since they are the nervous system of your teardrop camper. Before you buy, know the plug type from the trailer to the vehicle and be sure it matches with your plug.

Does the camper charge as you drive? What kind of battery does it use? Inspect the battery by looking for corrosive leaks. Get underneath the trailer and make sure the floor and frame look sound and all wiring is protected. Be aware of rust, rot or splits in the floor.

tips for buying a used travel trailer
In the end, all of the effort is worth it, ten times over.

It’s All in the Details

Finding a camper in good condition requires attention to detail. Make sure all the doors and locks work well. Inspect the back hatch hardware.

Screws often pull out on dirt roads as the camper rattles along. If the door hardware has screws and you plan on taking your new teardrop offroad, consider thru-bolting your door hardware. This is another easy fix that you can do at home, but it’s something to consider. We’ve had plenty of screws pull out.

Again, simple is better here. If cabinets have doors, chances are they will rattle and bounce down the road. Another item you will have to maintain over time. Make sure things like the interior lights, trailer lights, and sockets are all in working order.

Don’t be afraid to hook up your teardrop to your vehicle before leaving! Make sure the harness works and your lights are in working order. The last thing you’ll want is a ticket as you drive home!

Quick Tips for Camping with a Teardrop Trailer

When it comes to camping with a teardrop camper, you’ll want to follow these hand tips:

  • Be aware of your turning radius when choosing a campsite. If you aren’t cozy backing in a trailer, consider finding bigger campsites when you first start camping with your teardrop camper.
  • Your vehicle is longer. Although teardrop campers aren’t super heavy, remember you’re still towing something. Use signals when turning or merging, take note of using 4WD in adverse conditions, and know that it takes longer to stop and get going again.
  • Look for level ground. Just like you would a tent, you’ll want to find some flat ground. The good news is, trailers have winches so you can raise or lower the trailer if the ground isn’t quite level.
  • Chalk it and lock it. Don’t forget to chalk the wheels of your trailer. We use nubs of 2x4s that we store in our tool box. Also, always lock your camper when you’re not around, especially the trailer hitch!

The biggest piece of advice when it comes to camping with a teardrop camper is to just get out there. Slowly build up what you need and want over time. You’ll find a few items that would be nice to have each time you go out, so just get out and camp and figure out a system that works for you.

Now you’re armed with a little road warrior knowledge to buy the travel trailer of your dreams. With a little patience, you can easily score a great deal on a used teardrop camper.

For more RV, Vanlife, and teardrop ideas check out these awesome resources:

How to buy a teardrop camper. What to look for when purchasing a travel trailer. Tips for buying a camper. How to find a good deal on a camper, travel trailer, RV, and teardrop camper #teardropcamper #camper #camping #outdoors #rv #buyinganrv
How to buy a teardrop camper. What to look for when purchasing a travel trailer. Tips for buying a camper. How to find a good deal on a camper, travel trailer, RV, and teardrop camper #teardropcamper #camper #camping #outdoors #rv #buyinganrv
Your complete guide to buying a travel trailer. Tips and tricks on how to score a good deal on a teardrop camper. An in-depth look at what you should look for and what you can easily upgrade on your own. #teardropcamper #camper #camping #outdoors #rv #buyinganrv

Meg Atteberry
Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

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Meg Atteberry standing on a mountain sticking her tongue out

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.