Forums46
Topics538,030
Posts9,732,146
Members87,055
|
Most Online25,604 Feb 12th, 2024
|
|
|
Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
#7089742
02/23/18 04:59 AM
|
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 57
LuckyVictim
OP
Outdoorsman
|
OP
Outdoorsman
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 57 |
Has anyone done this? I picked up a craigslist cargo trailer two years ago, didn't want an RV problems like pipes that can freeze and roofs leaking at the slightest bit of neglect. Just threw the two standard cots, insulation with portable AC unit, and run it off a Generator. Anywho, its been the best to pull around the property and camp with it, but now its time for a rebuild. Wanna make it a bit nicer and some protection to the floor from wet boots... So, anyone have suggestions on layout for a 6x12 trailer, or things that are a must add to a camping rig?
"Sometimes hunting isn't about hunting at all"
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7089758
02/23/18 05:27 AM
|
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 110,797
dogcatcher
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 110,797 |
They have a section on cargo trailer conversions on this forum. It along with other info is well worth the read. http://www.tnttt.com/viewforum.php?f=42
Combat Infantryman, the ultimate hunter where the prey shoots back. _____________"Illegitimus non carborundum est"_______________
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7089776
02/23/18 05:58 AM
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 22,260
Texas Dan
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 22,260 |
Be sure you don't use a propane heater without sufficient ventilation, including making sure someone cannot unknowingly close a window that must remain open for that reason as others are sleeping.
"Some people will never like you because your spirit irritates their demons."
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7089823
02/23/18 12:11 PM
|
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 2,342
copperhead
Veteran Tracker
|
Veteran Tracker
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 2,342 |
One of the guys I hunt with converted his cargo trailer but didn't take away from it's use. He put hinged plywood on the wall that can fold down when in use as beds or shelves and put up when hauling items.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7089922
02/23/18 01:56 PM
|
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 3,091
Always ready 2 hunt
Veteran Tracker
|
Veteran Tracker
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 3,091 |
Must have CARBON MONOXIDE & SMOKE detector. Look forward to conversion pics
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7089969
02/23/18 02:33 PM
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 13,203
CCBIRDDOGMAN
Bird Herder
|
Bird Herder
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 13,203 |
Been thinking about doing this myself.
Haven't had it in years but never spit any out. I am a sucker for happy endings and strapped cowboys.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7090089
02/23/18 04:05 PM
|
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,136
EddieWalker
Veteran Tracker
|
Veteran Tracker
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 2,136 |
I'm a contractor that does mostly remodels for clients, and I've been asked by several about building tiny homes and converting shipping containers into cabins. Never a cargo trailer. In every case, when I run the numbers, the materials alone cost more then buying a fairly new, but used RV Trailer.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: Texas Dan]
#7090118
02/23/18 04:37 PM
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 727
Sidebuster
Tracker
|
Tracker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 727 |
Oil heaters are very safe.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: Sidebuster]
#7090263
02/23/18 06:53 PM
|
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 6,334
Blank
THF Trophy Hunter
|
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 6,334 |
Several friends who are big into dirt biking have done these. One guy used galvanized pipe, fittings, and floor flanges to make 4 permanent bunks on one side in his, for him and his 3 boys. Once all the bikes are out it is actually pretty roomy. The other guy uses his for his construction business, so he put folding plywood beds on each side wall suspended by chains. Then he can use the entire trailer for equipment when he works, and unload it when they go play.
Beer and whiskey, 'cause you can't drink bacon!!
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7090976
02/24/18 07:10 AM
|
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 17,721
Txduckman
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 17,721 |
We have an incredible 20 ft shipping container cabin. Pm me and I will send pics. It is unbelievable what you can do with one. We have 2 full beds, 2 twin beds, shower, toilet, washer/dryer hook up, storage, microwave, water heater, etc. 2 electric heaters and AC. 1000s cheaper than a new camper and bullet proof to mice.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: EddieWalker]
#7091002
02/24/18 09:29 AM
|
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 57
LuckyVictim
OP
Outdoorsman
|
OP
Outdoorsman
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 57 |
I'm a contractor that does mostly remodels for clients, and I've been asked by several about building tiny homes and converting shipping containers into cabins. Never a cargo trailer. In every case, when I run the numbers, the materials alone cost more then buying a fairly new, but used RV Trailer. Thanks for the advice. When I added up dollar signs, for the basics you just cant beat doing a simple setup in a cargo trailer. I've owned a 30ft Travel Trailer in the past, and now a 34ft newer motorhome. The quality of build on both wouldn't last a year parked out at my property in east Texas without having major issues. Anyone thinking about doing this I would highly encourage. Getting into some AC and away from the bugs in the summer is a great feeling, as is being able to sleep and wake up in a warm space while out deer hunting. My plan is to outfit mine and pull it with me to Wyoming and Nebraska this year for hunting. Be able to skip the hotel/motel fee's and save the drive waking right were we plan to hunt.
"Sometimes hunting isn't about hunting at all"
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7091157
02/24/18 02:51 PM
|
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 6,337
onlysmith&wesson
THF Trophy Hunter
|
THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 6,337 |
Having travel trailers on the deer lease wore me out. Flat tires, leaky roof, rats, titles, tags, tail lights.....I don't need anything other than a warm in the winter, cool in the summer, dry place to sleep and change clothes. I do all my cooking outside and any other business. Since I have all the tools to build anything I've built a few very small buildings that will slide on a utility trailer. Run a heavy extension cord through the wall into a 4 way box, small AC and a nice mattress. A little over 6' wide by 12' works great for me. I've never insulated, and stay very warm. Sleeping cool isn't a problem with the AC at the foot of the bed, actually get cold at night. On a budget, $6-700.00 is not a problem. If I have to, I can take it with me, or sell cheap after a few years of use. Hit me up if you want some details, I'd be glad to share what I've learned from building a few.
An unethical shot is one you take, that you know you shouldn't.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7091175
02/24/18 03:09 PM
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 22,716
BigPig
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 22,716 |
We converted one a few years ago. It’s great. R-13 insulation in the walls and roof. Electrical ran through the walls and roof with switches for lights. The generator powers everything including the 1300 watt heater. We did the first year with propane, didn’t care for it so it’s now used for back up. We bought a 8x16 with the 2 foot V nose, which is where we built the shelves for storage. A large cot goes across he back, folding table along the left wall for cooking on, and then a queen air mattress up front. Plenty of room for 3 adults, and when needed the table folds up and 2 more adults can sleep.
Best part is, ITS MOUSE AND WASP FREE after 3 years of West Texas abuse.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: Txduckman]
#7091704
02/24/18 11:33 PM
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 446
sweetwilliam
Bird Dog
|
Bird Dog
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 446 |
Would you mind sending pics to 9404654483 thanks Bill
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7091761
02/25/18 12:09 AM
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,696
pug
Extreme Tracker
|
Extreme Tracker
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,696 |
Tons of DIY videos available. Simply search "cargo trailer conversion" Here's but one example: https://imgur.com/a/WDk86
"My grandfather told me that there are two kinds of people: those who work and those who take the credit. He also told me to try to be in the first group since there was much less competition."
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7091863
02/25/18 01:21 AM
|
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 11,913
Simple Searcher
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 11,913 |
It seems to me that when you buy a shipping container or a cargo trailer that you are only buying the outer shell of what will still need framing for insulation, electrical and plumbing. Has anyone run the numbers on the cost of a shipping container framed inside compared to just building a cabin shell of equal sq ft/size and shape. Considering that you are not paying any labor for either build out.
Last edited by Simple Searcher; 02/25/18 03:17 AM.
"Man is still a hunter, still a simple searcher after meat..." Robert C. Ruark
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: Simple Searcher]
#7092129
02/25/18 05:58 AM
|
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 17,721
Txduckman
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 17,721 |
It's probably pretty close in numbers since you need a lot of lumber for a 20 foot cabin and roof needs to be good. A new one tripper container shell cost us abt $3,000. You can probably get a little cheaper and if you want a used one a lot cheaper. The container is much easier to move. Just pay for the flatbed to move it and it stays in one piece. Our container looks brand new outside and in after 4 years. We also built a small cabin for about $1,000 but much rougher and no plumbing. A container cabin will last a lifetime and no critters get inside so zero maintenance except clean the toilet and sweep the floor.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7092316
02/25/18 03:28 PM
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 727
Sidebuster
Tracker
|
Tracker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 727 |
Another advantage of a enclosed trailer is it becomes a toy hauler also.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7093730
02/26/18 06:57 PM
|
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 238
20bore
Woodsman
|
Woodsman
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 238 |
Just threw the two standard cots, insulation with portable AC unit, and run it off a Generator. How do you like the portable A/C and how well does it work? Did you vent out the floor?
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: 20bore]
#7093831
02/26/18 08:45 PM
|
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 110,797
dogcatcher
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 110,797 |
Just threw the two standard cots, insulation with portable AC unit, and run it off a Generator. How do you like the portable A/C and how well does it work? Did you vent out the floor? The only trailer conversion I have been inside of had a roof mount RV AC unit. With all of the insulation, he could almost use the trailer as a cold storage unit.
Combat Infantryman, the ultimate hunter where the prey shoots back. _____________"Illegitimus non carborundum est"_______________
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7093861
02/26/18 09:20 PM
|
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 12,866
PMK
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 12,866 |
vent it well and get a CO2 detector and use/test it religiously
"everyone that lives dies but not everyone who dies lived..."
~PMK~
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: dogcatcher]
#7093889
02/26/18 09:46 PM
|
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 460
VAFish
Bird Dog
|
Bird Dog
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 460 |
Just threw the two standard cots, insulation with portable AC unit, and run it off a Generator. How do you like the portable A/C and how well does it work? Did you vent out the floor? The only trailer conversion I have been inside of had a roof mount RV AC unit. With all of the insulation, he could almost use the trailer as a cold storage unit. There is a company that makes controllers to override certain wall mount AC units and turn them into portable refrigerators. They won't freeze things but supposedly will get them down to the high 30's.
"If your plan is for one year, plant rice. If your plan is for ten years, plant trees. If your plan is for one hundred years, educate children." -- Confucius
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: PMK]
#7094370
02/27/18 07:46 AM
|
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 17,721
Txduckman
THF Celebrity
|
THF Celebrity
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 17,721 |
vent it well and get a CO2 detector and use/test it religiously You only need that if using gas/propane for sure. But even in our container with only electric, I crack our sliding glass door a 1/2 inch when sleeping in it. Doubt need too but might as well be safe. I would put a window in it.
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: LuckyVictim]
#7094517
02/27/18 01:48 PM
|
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 2,072
cabosandinh
Veteran Tracker
|
Veteran Tracker
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 2,072 |
6x12. If you want to save on time/insulation Just use it as is, it s small enuf that it doesn’t take long To heat up or cool down Have a small fan to circulate air
8x20 Is better in terms of storage space / comfort
I didn’t insulate any of mine ,,, mainly due to time I estimated about $500 to do
|
|
|
Re: Cargo trailer converted into hunting camper
[Re: cabosandinh]
#7095110
02/27/18 10:55 PM
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,848
Texan Til I Die
Extreme Tracker
|
Extreme Tracker
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,848 |
I've got a 12 foot cargo trailer/camper. Really handy for trips "out west" if you have a decent road into your camp site. Pile all your stuff inside and it's water proof and secured for the trip. When you get there, unload your stuff and you've got a perfectly good bedroom ready to go. Mine stays at the deer lease during the off season. It has 2 bunk beds, a small cabinet for storage, hooks to hang clothes and other stuff on, air conditioning, heat is just a small electric space heater. It's wired for both AC power through a regular 30 amp RV plug, or DC power (lights only) through the trailer hookup on your truck. Only one door, but there's a window on each side that opens and serves as an emergency exit. Even though it has bunk beds, there's really only enough room for one person and all of their stuff. I pile my stuff on the top bunk and sleep on the bottom one.
Silver spurs and gold tequila keep me hanging on. Pretty girls and old cantinas give me shelter from the storm.
|
|
|
Moderated by bigbob_ftw, CCBIRDDOGMAN, Chickenman, Derek, DeRico, Duck_Hunter, hetman, jeh7mmmag, JustWingem, kmon11, kry226, kwrhuntinglab, Payne, pertnear, rifleman, sig226fan (Rguns.com), Superduty, TreeBass, txcornhusker
|