When it comes to teardrop trailer design, not a lot has changed since the days when DIY fans like Airstream founder Wally Byam were building them. In fact, this one looks very similar to the teardrop plans that Wally sold in Popular Mechanics to get his start in the RV business. It also looks eerily similar to some of the latest and greatest 21st Century teardrops, minus a few gadgets that is.
Classic teardrop styling with wide doors for easy access.
This restored 1950 trailer is little more than a rolling bed in a box, but it would still be ideal for someone who wanted to enjoy a more mobile life, but needed to do it inexpensively. It’s unbranded and was likely handcrafted by its original owners, who did an excellent job.
The body of the trailer is built from ¾ inch thick pine plywood, with the original turquoise color still on the outside and a rich varnish on the inside. The trailer is 12 feet long and 6 feet wide, with a 4 foot by 6 foot sleeping area that would hold two adults (who don’t mind being close).
Sleek lines and a hotrod fender set this teardrop aside as a vintage classic.
The most recent owner opted to replace the windows with something more modern and added a roof rack for luggage and a new battery box for electric, but otherwise, this one is about as authentic as they come. Metal trimmed edges and a fairly heavy frame have kept this trailer in good condition for its age.
Double bed interior, with lights and storage in the headboard.
In the rear, a spacious galley opens up with a hatchback to reveal beautifully preserved vintage varnished pine cabinets, with plenty of room for storage and cooking. In the bottom row, there’s a water storage tank with spigot built in, and a marquetry style counter top. Up top, open spice rack style storage makes getting to frequently used ingredients and spices a snap and there is plenty of room for a camp stove.
Closeup of the kitchen, notice the water spigot at the bottom.
The inside is mostly taken up with a bed, but has a charming wooden shelf with just enough room for an alarm clock or radio. A pair of modern LED lamps have been installed for plenty of illumination. The interior is cozy but the large, easy access doors on either side make it accessible.
A pair of cabinet style hatches provide access to storage in the headboard panel, for stowing clothing and other items. From the period color scheme, to the varnished pine interior, this one is a true classic that would not be at all hard to reproduce.
