Tent trailer: description, types and assembly tips

Often there are cases when, going on a long outdoor vacation and putting a huge amount of things in the trunk of your car, it still turns out later that some item was forgotten. In order not to forget anything and to accommodate everything you need, you can use a trailer tent for a car.

It is very convenient not to spend half a day on packing, but to take a trailer and go to nature for the weekend (this procedure will take no more than 5 minutes), and after rest, unhook it and go about your business without wasting time and effort on unloading the car. Currently, it is becoming more and more popular to travel around Russia on their own cars. Increasingly, when going out into nature, people do not want to stay in hotels or camp sites, but move around in their own transport, in which they have the opportunity to spend the night and relax.

Since car trailers are full-fledged motorhomes in various designs, it may seem that there are only a few elementary options for such a device. In fact, today the choice is huge. There are models of different sizes for every taste and budget.

Tourist services are expensive. In this regard, a trip to rest, taking into account the rent of a room, will cost a tidy sum.Spending all the time in nature, they return to the room only to spend the night, but they will have to pay for a full day. In this situation, the undeniable advantages of such a tent trailer are:

• the possibility of traveling in a simple car;
• no need to pay for hotel rooms;
• all holidays can be spent in nature;
• the possibility of choosing a place for basing the camp;
• weather protection;
• the ability to cook food, wash dishes in a specially equipped compartment in the trailer.

All such trailers available for sale can be divided into categories:

• tent trailer;
• trailer, cottage.

This is the simplest folding trailer, as well as the most affordable of the shelter options considered. When assembled, it is no different from a conventional cargo trailer. In the unfolded state, in addition to the tent itself, fastenings are provided on the sides:

• kitchen set;
• shells;
• small refrigerator;
• various folding furniture.

This shelter is suitable for 1 to 4 people. For anglers, hunters, long-distance cross-country expeditions and lovers of extreme recreation, this is an ideal option. Given the small size of beds and limited space for carrying luggage, many use air mattresses and pillows to organize a sleeping area.

Small size allows effortlessly drive the trailer behind you through the forest and off-road, and the light weight makes it possible transport it with a quad bike. The conditional disadvantage of the design can be attributed to the need for assembly and disassembly.

Better known as "trailer" or "caravan". These trailers have more "adult" dimensions (from 6 to 12 meters), which contributes to a more comfortable stay in them. The use of this type of model is very popular in Western countries, and their mild climate allows you to permanently live in this kind of dwelling. Entire villages sometimes grow out of these mobile homes. The process of moving is not very expensive compared to a conventional real estate home.

Be aware of its weight and transport conditions. Almost all such trailers (in accordance with Russian traffic rules) need rights with a certain category. The car is desirable stronger for towing such a “baby” - it will be heavy for an ordinary passenger car, which will lead to a quick failure of the power units.

This option is much more expensive than a simple tent trailer, however, this type of structure can become a full-fledged replacement for a capital building in a summer cottage. Additionally, a platform for mounting and transporting a mini-moped can be installed on the drawbar of such a trailer.

In the case when, for example, a 6-meter trailer is not enough or a more interesting option is found, there is always the opportunity to change your equipment for a new one, while it will not be so easy to rebuild a capital structure. Having such a trailer, you can go on a trip with it at any time.

Inside such a dwelling you can see:

• full refrigerator;
• a small stove, but more often a hob;
• a modest set of furniture, but sufficient for relaxation;
• it is possible to change or complete the situation with the desired furniture or furniture elements;
• full bathroom with shower;
• heaters.

You can't say the same about the rest in the trailer. Living in a motor home is practically no different from a one-room apartment, only less square meters. With proper arrangement, you can fit a large TV, a sofa and a double bed.

Depending on the principle of the life support device, trailers are divided into two types.

• camping – it is possible to connect the central water supply and electricity supply, if stops for such trailers are provided in the camps and parking lots.
• Autonomous – when the appliance is equipped with a diesel or petrol generator to supply electricity. It is also possible to connect central communications.

Since dacha trailers are not so common and accessible to our citizens, and parking lots are not equipped with the ability to connect communications, we will consider the most popular models of tent trailers.

The single-axle trailer is made in Denmark and is designed for 4 people. Its appearance is very similar to the Soviet-made SKIF trailer, in comparison with which it has certain advantages:

• rubber-harness suspension, which requires minimal maintenance;
• the body is made of high-strength plastic, which is not subject to rust;
• the frame covered with galvanized material also prevents the formation of rust stains.

This option has a curb weight of no more than 550 kg, and an empty one - no more than 250 kg. Such designs seamlessly tow cars. Small dimensions and rubber edging along the sides make it possible to store it in an upright position. The area of ​​this trailer is 18 square meters. m and depth - 250 cm. The base is made of fiberglass material with an ivory hue. Equipped with a convenient hinged protection from annoying sunlight. Side and front panels are quick-detachable. On both sides of the tent there are windows with mosquito nets for airing the room.

The sleeping compartment has an additional window for ventilation, all fasteners are closed. There is an empty space under the bed, a large number of pockets for various small things. The trunk can hold up to 100 kg evenly spread over it. The kitchen is equipped with a three-burner hob, sink and 12 volt pump. The trailer is equipped with brakes.

Produced in France, has one axle. The trailer has a mass of 400 kg, curb weight - no more than 650 kg. Compared to the previous model, it can accommodate 6 people. Equipped with a large summer tent, a small wardrobe, a dining table. Also, the kitchen is equipped with a gas stove, in the stove there is a compartment for a gas cylinder.

The frame is galvanized. The trailer is equipped with brakes. It cannot be stored vertically.

Produced in Russia, it has one axle and increased ground clearance, adapted for Russian roads. The galvanized frame, made of a square pipe, is designed to transport loads weighing up to 750 kg. Depending on the configuration, 3 types of suspension and reinforced hubs are installed on the frame.The brake system can be installed on any configuration of this trailer. The manufacturer claims the high quality and strength of the fiberglass body, as well as the durability of powder coating.

Additional characteristics:

• modern design design of the body, made of impact-resistant material;
• the awning of the tent is made of breathable material that does not let any liquids through;
• supply with alternative sources of electricity;
• spare parts and consumables in the public domain.

There is a tight-fitting top, all contents inside the trailer are well protected from water and dust. Fiberglass does not transmit ultraviolet and does not collapse from direct sunlight, it is easy to clean, does not require special care. In case of damage, it is easily repaired to a good condition without the need to replace the part.

A distinctive feature is two double beds separated from each other, having separate rooms, united under one large canopy. The common awning is fixed on special guides that prevent drafts and insects from entering the sleeping compartments. Otherwise, it is not much different from the rest: 4 places to sleep, 18 square meters, a kitchen with two burners, a retractable stainless steel sink and a 12 volt pump.

Before buying, you need to understand and decide how and under what specific circumstances you will operate this unit. It depends on which model suits you. Trailers are well suited for summer cottages and travel. When buying a quality model, you need to study its technical condition well, and also pay special attention to:

• condition of ceilings and walls - they should not be damp and have visible defects;
• there should be no through cracks in the room;
• all movable elements must be in good condition and not have jamming, biting;
• check the serviceability of cabinets, bedside tables and shelves;
• pay special attention to the bathroom - inspect it for leaks and leaks;
• inspect ceramic products - they should not have visible chips and cracks;
• ventilation hatches on the ceiling should open easily and as tightly as possible (the presence of traces of water around the hatch may indicate that it is leaking);
• the same applies to windows;
• water should not stagnate in sinks and toilets;
• all doors, including furniture, must have serviceable latches;
• ventilation openings must be in good condition (not closed, sealed, smeared);
• the front door should not have gaps, and the sealing gum on it is torn or cracked;
• check the operation of the front door lock.

For outdoor recreation, a tent trailer will be indispensable - a relatively cheap and easy-to-use option. It all depends on the needs and number of people living in such a tent. Much of what is missing can be purchased separately and assembled a mobile tent specifically for your needs and requirements. It is also an excellent expeditionary and tourist option.

The assembly of the tent trailer consists of the following steps.

• Before assembly, it is necessary to install the support legs of the sleeping compartment.
• Next, all transport fasteners open and assembly of the frame begins.
• The next step is to stretch the awning of the tent itself and secure the bottom to the ground with wedges.
• The tent is almost complete. Then it remains only to install the sink, hob, assemble the bed and table.

In the next video you will find a brief overview of CampLet tent trailers.