2021 Cargo Camper Minimalist Elegance Philosophy Part 2

[@matthew3454]

Very pratical application, thanks so much for takeing the time to share.

[@debs7411]

I love your build, it's got everything you need. After 40 years of tenting, we upgraded to a little aspen pop up. At a certain age, you need to get off the ground. We still tent sometimes (some music festivals are walk in) but have added some creature comforts, including a portable solar generator, screened canopy, buddy heater, bucket toilet and an as yet unused solar shower. It feels so luxurious in comparison to our early years! I have no desire for a big fancy motor home. Camp life is the good life.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

I hear ya. We started out for a long time with a 10x10 canvas Hillary tent from Sears. From honeymoon to kids about 8 yrs old. Then a popup, then a teardrop, to what we have now. This will be it though I think. Finally satisfied enough. Thanks for the comment.

[@cn9630]

@@CraftsmanontheLake and too, it's a much different world these days... So, tents can just be a bit too daredevil for my taste! I need something with heat (being 61 yrs old), AND something secure, with a locking door! Too many UNINVITED guests roaming around these days...

[@cn9630]

And big expensive Motorhome Well,...they're truly not quite something that I'd refer to as "fancy",... As not nearly fancy enough for my taste, OR the price tag... ...what, with the garbage quality of their "builds".... The cardboard walls, and the horrific mattresses, etc...) And- DID YOU SEE THE VIDEO RE: METH HEADS DOING WELL-KNOWN RV COMPANY'S MANUFACTURING, IN INDIANA IT WAS IN AN INDIANA NEWSPAPER!!!!!!!!! A reputable YT Channel did a huge story on it!!!!! During Covid, these NOW FAILING RV's were being built by druggies!!!!!! Apparently, The workload was intense, and so their workers were hopped up to meet their production demand!!! Of course, NOW techs/mechanics are in short supply... and with often months WAITING FOR AN APPT FOR SERVICE!!!!! Surely, the druggies must have had a hand in how many RV's are now CONSTANTLY requiring this EXPENSIVE SERVICING ON TOP OF THE OTHER ISSUE, WITH PEOPLE BEING CHARGED FOR SERVICING THEY NEVER RECEIVE... Nope--- I'D BUILD MY OWN RIG YA CAN'T TRUST ANYONE THESE DAYS... SO SAD... BUT FATHER WILL SOON BE SORTING THEM OUT,... SO... SAFE TRAVELS❗️

[@ChrisMilton74]

I really enjoyed the brevity and the simplicity of not only your Explanations but the set up itself. I am 47 and I can really see myself doing this if I can figure out how to make a portion of that trailer home office while on the road.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. It can be modified to do different things depending on what you need. If the internet connection is needed well an unlimited mobile hotspot via your phone will do it. But, have to stick to the places with cell service.

[@hldye7442]

Hi and sure liked your video with good voice & filming quality . Thanks for not Blasting everybody away like they are in a concert And a Lead guitarist wants to show off his Les Paul . You and your wife are still married and you two did a good quality project. Like your mindset on camping and C.T. Camper build out .

[@resourcefulqueen]

Clearly presented. Low stress camping. Pleasant travels. 🌄😊

[@danthompson1467]

Great job I just turned 60 we been thinking about making a camper for a few years now everything you can buy is low quality and leak we love your set up .

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

I was about that age when I did this one. We had a little guy teardrop for about 8 yrs before that. This one has been great. Tens of thousands of miles on it. We've seen some amazing places. Practically the only cost has been gas and we've used a lot of that because we keep moving. We'll be doing a couple local camping trips this summer then a big one in mid September. Sort of our first big trip since the pandemic. We've got a daughter with a newborn so we're sticking close for awhile. New video in a couple of weeks. Simple, minimalistic Lithium going in soon. With our power needs should be able to get 3-5 days out of a charge. Thanks for posting btw. I hope your camper dream comes true.

[@leem200]

We went from tents to pop up, to run a way tear drop, and have purchased a used cargo small 5x10, to convert to small camper. I can stand up in it husband has to hunch a little. We will put a temp type shower and port a poddy in it, just incase we need it. We mostly use camp ground facilities. Want to cook inside if weather is bad. Haven't started it yet but am excited to. Love yours and you did a beautiful job on it. With tear drop we have porta poddy tent and shower room.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

I'm sure it will be great. Plannign it is half the fun right? Good luck with your build and be sure to show us at the end or even the progress as you go!

[@billstoys8324]

You are a camping Genius. I really like your philosophy toward camping. I am getting ready to jump into building a cargo camper and want to follow your example in the build. Thanks for sharing. And you did a beautiful job on your camper. Very well thought out.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Wow, thank you.. Genius huh? Mind talking to my wife? Seriously, Best of luck with your build.

[@MountainGirlwIPA]

Absolutely agree regarding cleanup up considerations. I stopped Mac and cheese or any other messy sauces this year. For me it boiled down to the fact that I hate doing dishes when camping. Amazing job on the trailer and the quilt is adorable 😊

[@dougstmary6077]

Simple, efficient, and perfect for your needs! Dang intelligent , and so well thought out camper.I am stealing some of your ideas,for my trailer. Thanks!!!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. Not for everyone but I think a certain segment of camper styles it will appeal to.

[@seansteede]

Me too! Imitation is the highest form of flattery!

[@FortWildernessRicky]

Part Two was as Interesting as part 1. Really enjoy your camping philosophy. Simple is always best. Well done 👍⛺️💪😎

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thnx.

[@mikepi660]

Impressive,, enjoy it all my friend,,,,

[@brendenellasfunadventures4186]

Great info . The paper towel holder is the best

[@georgeradford3020]

I really enjoyed your 2 videos,you kind of remind me of my father,I wish you safe and happy trails, and I hope you make it to Alaska one day my friend.

[@stevenyoungheim4837]

Very very impressive. One day I hope my wife and I can travel and enjoy life the way you and your wife has. God bless and stay safe.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

I hope so too. Early retirement made it possible for me. Lucky. And a wife who's game for anything. We had our first 30k miles in a little guy teardrop. All those videos are on youtube but unlisted, just for family and friends. This time around I feel like sharing as so many have shared and I've learned from. Thank you.

[@RoyboyBean]

Love how simple you kept things,,, less is more !

[@johnalvitre3154]

This was great. I really hope Alaska happens for you both. Thanks for sharing, this made a lot of sense and is a good starting point for those not sure what they want to go into their camping setup.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks.. At 68, doesn't look like Alaska will happen. Everything's working good and we're healthy but it's a big move.

[@fletcher3913]

You did a great job on the conversion and fitting out. It is a nice little camper.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. It works for us.

[@Pigmy001]

A Little late finding your channel..lol I just had a little Fleetwood Neon ripped off, but recovered due to a Apple Air Tag i had put into the trailer during the winter for storage unfortunately not located until said person spray painted it and did a terrible job at that and some other damage. My insurance will cover just enough to buy a 6x10 Cargo and after watching a lot of conversions your approach is the best i've found thus far and will strive to achieve. Thankyou you have made my job so much easier.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Well thank you. To bad about the theft. Mine is insured for a specified amount that I chose and as a utility trailer.

[@lunchbagcrew]

Very good! Thank you for your time, efforts and sharing!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Many thanks!

[@nomex1996]

I love the KISS principle. Keep It Super Simple. I started taking College and HS students around the lower 48 states each summer in 1996-2014 One bowl, one fork, spoon, and cup. Stored in a gallon zip lock bag and group storage in a plastic tub. I am beginning my build of a Cargo Camper from my cargo trailer used for the western trips. Thank you for sharing your ideas and experience with yours. I believe we are like minded!

[@claraholmes1023]

I love your set up. So simple. Genius!!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you so much. Not for everyone but for those who can leave their washer and dryer at home it's great. it is for us anyway!

[@perrybrantley6188]

Enjoyed the simple ways of doing things. No doubt this is the way to go. Thanks for the video.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you. It is the way for some people. Others can't leave without the wash/dryer. But viva la difference right?

[@juliegolub2602]

Common sense camping. Love your tips and thoughts ❤️

[@checkingoutgypsymike2075]

Very nice, simplistic elegance at it's finest.

[@letslearn2gether145]

I enjoy watching newbie here great detail and infro

[@kelliintexas3575]

This guy runs a tight ship lol. My husband had to pay for 2 extra suitcases on our Honeymoon! 🤣 One was just shoes! I have learned to lighten the load some since, by the time he retires we may be down to a duffle bag lmao!

[@DougsterCanada1]

WOW! Everything thought out logically based on experience and lifestyle. I loved your custom insulated cooler. Thanks again for yet another wonderful video. Gotta love folks who ask "Do I need this" before the build. When I lived in Maine the enclosed porch had two of those baseboard heaters. They came in handy during the Great Ice Storm of 1998. I was about 3.5 hours dive northeast of you on the coast, very near The Wooden Boat School. Come to think of it, I'd love to see what a few of those folks could do as far as a build out on a cargo-camper conversion.

[@christate590]

Very interesting and informative. Subscribed! Chris Tate from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, who is planning exactly what you're doing. Thanks.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you for sure. Nice to have a viewer from overseas.

[@curtismeadows8340]

I just love your trailer! Thank you for sharing your build.

[@jTone40]

Like the drone intro! I have a DJI Phantom 4 that I like to get scenery shots with. Great design on your minimalist camper! Thank you for sharing.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you, I'm a pretty much new drone user. I've got the Mavic Mini. I don't care to just fly it and take scenery picts but I do plan on using it to give a better perspective of the areas we visit while traveling with the camper. And I do like those arial driving off with the camper shots in rustic areas.

[@mikestone9129]

Love your camper ideas. Not for everyone of course, but it really is minimalist. And leaves the inside open and airy. Love the back screen idea as well. So many people watch all the videos on trailer builds and think they have to have all the bells and whistles but most are not really needed, just luxuries. I will be traveling for an extended time, staying in one place for a long time so will need a few extras, thanks for the ideas.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thnx. I think it's sort of like some other interests. When I did a lot of backpacking years ago I read all the books and magazines then bought all the stuff. Half of it never went out a second time. Campers can be like that. Some people decide to do a build and put all the stuff in it that a house has. Then after many think, "not necessary". But, some don't.

[@bosse641]

Very nice. Simple and cozy and liveable. Well done.

[@jerryberryhill3619]

I love this man, I could listen to him all day long. You have a beautiful rig, you should be very proud of it. !!!!

[@CBAmakingAusername]

You are so very talented. It's gorgeous

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Blush...

[@Inosuke_Hashibira75]

I like your thinking. Keeping it simple would be the best way to go. Thanks for some great ideas That I’ll be using for my build. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. Love to see what you come up with. And Love Canada. I'm in Southern Maine and my father was native Quebec. We do the Maritimes once and awhile. Cape Breton is sooooo good. Where the mountains meet the sea.

[@vincentmoro7188]

I bet you were a shop teacher. Great viseo.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks, no a science teacher and later on computers. Degrees in both in education. Jr. high 30+yrs.

[@pedroagonzalezfoto]

First of all, let me thank you for your clear, perfectly vocalized English. I'm not a native English speaker, so I often have problems to understand some English accents. Particularly, those of people from the USA or Scotland. And I must say that I didn't need to activate the subtitles to understand you. Pretty nice! :-) Secondly, and maybe more important, you seem to have things completely clear about what you need and what you need not for camping. An that clarity gets reflected in the simple and efficient layout of your camper: nothing is missing, nothing needs to be removed. Congrats fot that! You really got to develop minimalist elegance!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you. I was a teacher most of my adult life. Clarity was a prerequisite for the job. And, I live in Maine so we're known for not pronouncing our 'r's. Lobster, what where known for here, is often pronounced 'Lobstah' for instance. I'm actually planning a video this winter on Mainer's (Mainah's) and the letter 'r'.

[@pedroagonzalezfoto]

@@CraftsmanontheLake Well that mispronouncing of final "r" is pretty common between English speaking people, I guess. That's not my main concern when dealing with spoken English. I suffer quite more when trying to decypher "missing" consonants, strangely pronounced vowels or sequences of stitched words one to the following. But, actually, those are not problems only of English language: it happens the same with Spanish depending on where does the speaker come from. And I suppose it also happens to anyother language in the World, unless it is spoken by very tiny communities. Enjoy your camping!

[@pedroagonzalezfoto]

Oh, and I think that your teaching experience makes that your videos are that clear and understandable.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

@@pedroagonzalezfoto I find that many people today speak without periods or spaces. Itsasiftheysayasentenceasonewholeword. (It's as if they say a sentence as one whole word). Too fast.

[@pedroagonzalezfoto]

@@CraftsmanontheLake Right! Quite difficult to be understood, if you haven't your ears trained to! :-D

[@tinasweep7909]

Very nice and well thought out

[@kimberlychicago7608]

Beautiful trailer.

[@idaberrones3809]

I love your comfortable well planned camper,would enjoy so much

[@menofairy]

Beautiful camper

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you. Not hard to make because it's minimalistic.

[@stumpgrinder13]

Very beautiful, I hope you two have many great adventures...🇺🇲

[@carlh-thehermitwithwi-fi679]

simple. clean. elegant. nothing extra, everyhting to two uses. pheomenal

[@flpirate4565]

Great video. Lots of common sense, a great way to build a camper. Thanks

[@nikkismith7279]

These videos were awesome! Thank you for sharing. Would love to see more about how you guys camp!

[@bettykroll]

I absolutely love your build. I wish I had the tools and skill to build one myself.

[@OttoMatieque]

I like your concept!

[@54bonkers]

So well thought out.Thank you for sharing!

[@nightstringers]

I love this. What a nice spread

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@LorenHenriksen]

Thank you. From Canada.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

I have Canadian heritage my father was a citizen of Quebec never naturalized but lived here in the United States.

[@LorenHenriksen]

@@CraftsmanontheLake Ahhh, that's why your so polite ! Lol,

[@matttruax3998]

Love the camper and Love the video well done Sir!!!

[@dimasarroyo7063]

Well spoken love love loved it

[@timallbritton3716]

I am guessing that you stay in the northern states since in your words "you don't bother with AC". You would have a heat stroke down here in Georgia with the relentless heat and humidity at night. Great build :)

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Yes. We do have a portable AC that we can bring if we know we'll be in hotter areas. But, we usually know when that happens and the beauty of being retired is we can usually do a long term weather report and avoid those areas. We have done several week jaunts and when we do we bring the AC but so far we haven't had to do that much. Hottest weather I've see anywhere was in South Dakota. Not as hot temperature wise as places we've been to like Arizona but it seemed much hotter with still air and humidity.

[@59chevt]

Really enjoyed your thoughtful presentation. thanks

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jessiscott9035]

Thank you for sharing your camping philosophy! I’m about to embark on a similar journey with my family and appreciate all the tips!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thnx. and good luck with your endeavor!

[@GlendaNorris-qx3in]

Your are awesome, and campers not bad either . Great job. God bless and safe travels

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks 👍

[@levt7651]

Love your personality and philosophy. Happy camping!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Really? Talk to my wife will ya? She needs convincing! Anyway, thank you.

[@patriciabasey-gibson3894]

Great Ideas. Upgrade from a tent. That's why we got a pop-up. Love camping but wanted to stay dry and warm. Where you get the device for the TV? Thank you for sharing your build and experience. Trish 7/12/21 God Bless and Stay Safe.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. We had a popup camper a long time ago. Definitely a good type of camper and easy on the gas mileage as it's got low wind resistance. The video device I had is no longer available but they've got others. Search 'hdmi video player' on amazon to see a bunch of them. If you've got a regular smart tv though you can plug in an sd card or thumb drive directly into it. Or get something like a chromecast or roku device to play things through your phone.

[@jamiesmith1343]

VERY nice build! And a lot of good advice. Thank you for sharing all your great knowledge.

[@keithhoward4069]

Fantastic job! My only criticism would be the lack of AC and a generator. It gets hot out west.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

In my first video (I think it was that one) We have a dual fuel generator that we keep in the back of the truck and run it from there. We have an internal AC plumbed to the floor but we almost never bring it as it's almost always not needed where we often go. Thnx.

[@wmsfmf7738]

Outstanding!! And i love the way yall camp and the way you present your videos!

[@alanjackson4646]

Excellent, build and minimalist philosophy. Regards from the Solent Coast. U.K. AJ

[@patrickmcvey72]

Thank you for a great video. I live in a van and I follow so many of your same principles as all of the fluff is not that necessary. We live with the very basics which are more than enough.Simplistic as practical and practical allows us to enjoy so much more out there. Thanks once again and I have subscribed.

[@PRJosh.M]

Love this trailer setup… ✅

[@texling93]

I really like your CCME Philosophy! I'm thinking of doing something like this, hopefully this summer. I was thinking of adding 4x4 tongue extension. Placing under the existing tongue and bolting together and u-bolting as backup. This will raise trailer 4". Then adding 4" lift for axle....Safe Travels!

[@kendrasmith6637]

Wonderful trailer camper. So cool! 😊

[@BellaviaSigns]

Nice Camper for sure

[@erictreptow1549]

I can tell you are a person who really likes to think things out and enjoys the build process. So I was wondering if you had a reason that you elected not to put pulls on the doors and drawers? Really like the cooler idea and the minimalist approach. If your ever passing through St. Louis I can set you up with a nice camping spot with a view of the Mississippi (no charge). Might cost you a few hours of conversation about your build philosophy :-)

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. There are pull handles on the bed drawers. The cabinets and the galley drawer has a a routed area on the bottom of the drawer and side of the cabinet you can grab to pull them out. I'm not fond of handles on cabinets. But that's just me. The kitchen I made in the house is the same way . A couple of years ago... maybe 4 I guess. We passed through St Louis and went up the arch. It was when they were doing renovation around it. Sort of a bucket list thing. Thanks for the offer.

[@darkstormy1545]

excellent work.

[@stacydemeester]

I love this aesthetic and level of function! I’m planning to convert our cargo trailer this spring and will be watching more of your videos for inspiration!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you. It works well for us. Some people like more but for us and the way we travel it's just right.

[@abcantiques777]

Love the cooler you made! Wow you are so handy.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you. Yes, the cooler does work well. I went to Cabellas to look at coolers and saw the plastic ones like I already had then saw the Yeti ones. Once I looked at the price tag It thought I'd make one with 2" of insulation. I figured it had to be at least as good. A bit more bulky but not an issue in the back of the truck.

[@danielparker1808]

So beautiful you did a wonderful job 👍

[@elljayq1304]

Brilliant! Thanks for the tour!

[@naturalnat3452]

So simple yet so well thought out. Your build has definitely given me some ideas to implement if and when I would make my own cargo trailer conversion to travel with my someone or even just on my own or with a friend.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank you so much.

[@mhbjeep]

Nice job. I’m in the process of building out my cargo trailer/toy hauler and you given me some great ideas about reducing the extra gear we don’t need. Thanks!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

So glad you found it useful. Good luck with y our build!

[@danotrazy]

Loved this.... Great job.

[@theresafairchild4499]

Great build and love it!

[@dfros1957]

I love this . Great build.

[@holidaze8998]

Very interesting setup you have and so well presented. One thing I don't think you mentioned is the bathroom situation? I don't like public toilets and wonder if you have an emergency toilet in the back of the truck? Oh, and your home surroundings are beautiful. Is that in Maine?

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Yup, Southern Maine. Mousam Lake. We actually have a 'luggable loo' for those emergency situation that most often haunt my wife occasionally or when we're a ways from the bathrooms at the campsite and she doesn't want to walk the distance at night or in the rain. It works well but we use it very infrequently.

[@grey8940]

great video! Thanks a lot for explaining everything

[@lightspeedlaserengraving6048]

Perfect build.

[@joe18750]

Impressive. I readily embrace your camping philosophy. Having watched both part 1 & 2, I didn't hear you address Internet connectivity. Would you please elaborate on that topic? Thank you.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

That fold down antenna outside at the top of the camper. That used to be for a long range router I got that would hopefully connect to a campground wireless at a distance. It did not work out well. Hard to configure and get going all the time. Now I have an iphone with US celular and unlimited. It has a hotspot that lets the phone act as a wireless router. The speed is usuallyl 20mbps too. Plenty speedy for on the road stuff. So, other options are no longer needed. You set the phone as a hotspot and just connect your computer like you would to a wireless router.

[@kellyname5733]

@@CraftsmanontheLake There are a few newer companies for connectivity. Visible wireless and Nomad internet.

[@dennisjackson3531]

It looks so big and roomy

[@scoobydog411]

Wow you said a lot. All good stuff. I have a lot of the same ideas. OH and buying a cargo trailer is a thousand times better than building one. I’d would want to carry a small boat in the trailer, but thats just me. One thing i have never seen is a way to charge the storage batteries from the trailer wheels or a small windmill. I’m not much into solar either. Make more videos. = )

[@kellyname5733]

You are spot on with the recharging of the lithium batteries. Everybody laughs when I say that there has to be a way to recharge the batteries when the wheels are rotating. That energy needs to be harnessed and saved in the batteries/bank. To me it is a no brainer. We have been charging our batteries as the auto is in motion for eons. Yes I know the initiator is gas to move the auto in order to charge the batteries, but...This invention will revolutionize creating power and managing it. The one good thing to keep in mind is to have a plan A, plan B and maybe a plan C in order to create power for your self in your trailer. Solar, batteries, and even a generator (hate those obnoxious things), a backup portable power bank (Jackery, Bluetti).

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thank your for those comments. As far as wheel charging. Think about it. You'd be mounting some type of alternator to the wheels so when they turned they'd make electricity. But... when the camper wheels are turning the trucks has to be moving too and the alternators in the truck running. Most trailers have the 7th hot wire coming from the truck that is from the alternator already. So, I'd think putting some kind of charging mechanism on the wheels wouldn't be necessary as the power is already being produced by the tow vehicle.

[@rebeccapratt3089]

Beautiful!!!

[@rob280]

Very nice camper, everything you need and not crammed full with the stuff you don't. Do you know how much it weighs when loaded with the stuff you normally take camping?

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thanks. Don't know for sure but the trailers curb weight (stock before the build) is about 1000 lbs. It can be loaded to a total of 2990 lbs. I estimate (roughly) that I weighs, as is and loaded to travel about 2200lbs.

[@yvettagrimes6175]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@peterdement]

Consider a bottom mount privacy shade. You can open from the bottom half way maintain privacy and keep the view.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Very good idea. I had to look those up on Amazon. Never knew they existed. We've actually only put the shade down 3-4 times. When I open the doors I leave them open as blinders on the sides that seems to give us privacy most of the time. We do a lot of camping in state parks and boondocking so often no one is behind us. If I ever need to change it out though I might decide to replace it with one of those instead. thnx.

[@baskervillebee6097]

Jackets and sweaters can fold into a large pillow sham that acts as a backrest when reading in bed.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

And it would prove to be two uses while only taking up one space... great idea!

[@yx2k747]

It's so bright and beautiful. How much does this whole thing weight? Our SUV can only handle max 2000lbs.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Even though the entire trailer itself is all aluminum, it still comes in at about 2800 lbs before the build stuff I added into and on it. I have no idea what the weight is now, maybe 3500-3800? My Ford f150 has a tow weight maximum of 6800 lbs so it's pretty much a light towing for this vehicle so I never bothered to have it weighed. Thanx for the comments.

[@kelliintexas3575]

I HATE canned food. These old timers are from a different era for sure! I could live off Deli meats, crackers and cheese. The husband not so much lol. The fridge & AC is a MUST in Texas. Some nights in summer do not go below 95. No way could I sleep like that, have no running water and show up in public places like a festival. Lol I need a cooler, running water, ac. Hell Summer has gotten to 120 here with 100% humidity. That's just hell. Wouldn't keep a dog in that ! Upstate is SO DIFFERENT. We worked in Chicago for 6 months. It was a whole new world. LOVED the weather. I do love a screen during Deer Season in December! We will be doing that in our camper for sure!

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

All valid points. I'd probably feel the same way if I lived in your neck of the woods!

[@jasonschnorr8893]

Pretty awesome build! Can you share what the weight of the camper is? Wondering if a Subaru Outback would be able to tow it.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Thnx. The curb weight (bare trailer) is 1225 lbs. The GVWR (total trailer and what it can carry) is about 3000. My F150 doesn't know it's there. And I didn't order brakes on the thing and it's not an issue. Your subaru towing capacity is 2700-3500 lbs depending on model/engine. My truck is more than double that so I don't know what your experience might be with your car.

[@jasonschnorr8893]

@@CraftsmanontheLake Thanks so much for the reply! Something I'm really going to look into. Really enjoyed your videos.

[@cbblackmon]

Good camper for you. Need sink, shower, toilet in my camper.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Yes, ever yones needs are different. We're still 'camping' Off the ground, out of the rain, into a bed. The rest is gravy for us.

[@kellyname5733]

Great build! Super simple and very inexpensive...love that. A frig is a must for me and my dog. We just gotta' have fresh food. Today there are so many great portable refrigerators. I dont even have a cargo trailer yet..but I do have a frig. and a lithium power bank, lol.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

I understand your fridge point completely. Since we're travel campers. We move often to see things, like I said, we're always passing a store, so picking up fresh stuff each day isn't an issue. And if we're out weeks or a few months at a time then dealing with power issues or ice is eliminated. The cooler I have is used once or twice a year when we meet up with the kids to camp or go to a music festival. The rest of the time it's stored away until we need it again. Thanks for the comments.

[@suearcher8708]

Very nice!

[@reneehadala2231]

With your all aluminum trailer, how did you attach the cabinets, light fixtures etc to the walls? I have an aluminum trailer on order so need to figure this out before I pick it up. Thank you for your insight and response

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

The frame is made of aluminum square stock. I have some screws that self tap and go through the wood/paneling and the frame. They hold very well. Go to Amazon and search for 'double square self tapping screws'. They're the same ones the camper company used inside my camper to attach wallboard and other stuff when I got it.

[@reneehadala2231]

Thank you very much, I will follow your advice

[@joseramos-ko6ir]

Wauuuuu I’m very impressed with your video’s!! Were do you find campgrounds Or places to stay , around USA?

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Well, before covid it wan't much of a problem. When we travel it's long distance. We move from day to day or at least every few days and see what an area has to offer. We look at sites on the phone and call ahead to see for availability about an hour or so before stopping for the day. When you get to midwestern and western states the parks are fairly numerous so you often can choose from a few sites along your route. During the few times we couldn't find a free spot we'd do some boondocking anywheres from national forest parking lots to crackerbarrel restaurants.

[@toddlake4258]

You talked about wanting the hitch longer - did you think about a long hitch on you tow vehicle ? I am assuming you have a Reese hitch.

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

Actually, the geometry of it is that if you would increase the length of the hitch from the truck, the pivot points stays in the same place so you can turn sharp or will you still hit the trailer at the same point along with that for every foot that you increase the hitch from the truck it increases the tongue weight by 100 pounds so for those reasons I haven’t done that.

[@247supermom]

What size is your cargo trailer you converted?

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

7x14 (that's including the v) dimension lines are on the video should want to see the inside ones including height.