6X12 Cargo Trailer Camper Built for under $5000

This is my 6X12 Cargo Trailer Camper conversion. Under 2000 pounds and under $5000 dollars. Better than a teardrop camper and cheaper.

[@laszlovass7326]

I like the stealthy aspect. My advice to others is if you get any of these small trailers order the axle upgrade for trailer brakes. Better in wet and emergency conditions. Also, if weight and winds are in your plans tandem axles remove lots of tongue weight yet still be short and track straight. Lots of people don't realize what 3500 lbs will do without brakes to a small SUV or minivan. Personally, I have had 3500 lbs try to jackknife me in wet conditions too many times to forgo trailer brakes, the brakes will help keep you straight. Best wishes. Great video!

[@beamdoctor5637]

Your right on your points of safety. I have 7x16 tandem axle utility trailer. I used to tow my trailer with a 8 Cylinder SUV. That was very unsatisfying tow vehicle so I bought a used F150 Ecoboast and WOW what an improvement in all ways. I have had trailer in Stealth mode 11 years and truck 6 years. I have queen bunk bed on front end and toy hauler in the back. I love it because it's all paid for years.

[@HokeyBugle]

Great advice. A short trailer like that will swing out real fast. Better weight distribution and brakes will make a world of different

[@tj-kv6vr]

why do you need to be "stealthy" are you hiding from someone?

[@shitloveaduck]

Well said Laslo. I have made similar comments on other videos. Also,,, slow down when trailering. It seriously affects the handling of the vehicle in emergency manoeuvres or poor weather.

[@appalachianunderground8474]

@@tj-kv6vrI agree, and he did say that he doesn’t boondock so why worry about stealth?

[@jerseyandhernomads]

I live in a 6x12 and cook inside everyday nothing smells like my food. I open the vent and or window. It may smell just after cooking but it soon goes away. I have a cassette toilet going on almost 6 years on the road as a nomad using it and no leaks. Nice build.

[@michaelsnively3621]

I definitely agree with you about the cooking. The neat thing about the kitchen out the back, is that it adds space inside for other stuff. You could even have a retractable awning out the back to extend the kitchen area.

[@jmac4708]

Simplicity, affordability and practicality. I'm loving everything about this build! It works for him and his family, and that is all that matters. He stated pretty clearly that he does not boondock, so his setup must be perfect for campgrounds with hookups. It also sounds like when he goes camping he does not go just to sit inside his trailer and play with electronics. He wants to sit, eat and be outdoors and use his trailer for sleeping. In that case, his build is even more perfect for him and his family. That looks like one comfortable bed set up..... Well done!!!!

[@christinawilcke8060]

Awesome I have a similar older set up with a smaller cargo trailer. No kitchen set up, that's awesome

[@christinawilcke8060]

Sorry hit send to early...use a marine porta potty and a salamander wood burning heating unit vented up top and has copper and tile heat resistance around it...looking to go bigger and like to boondocks... thanks

[@elblancochingon8138]

A 4' awning at the rear would be awesome for cooking in the rain etc.

[@haleystamper8489]

Otherwise I don't think he could cook without ruining a lot of stuff.

[@maureenblutekraus3561]

Yes awning hooked above the back doors

[@sand2sea]

6ft but totally agree

[@chuckstith838]

Also a awning off the side with the door could double the shaded areas outside where you hangout

[@Nathanallenpinard]

@@chuckstith838 What would be interesting is if you made the door swing up (provided it's light enough) and that when then have retractable awning poles it could stand on and become a kitchen ceiling.

[@lbredikhin5]

Out of 150 conversions that I have now seen on KZbin, yours is my absolute favorite! So simple, and perfectly ideal for our 3 night camping trips in CA. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@petershay2247]

Well done bloke . Often amazes me how many people appear to think he who spends the most wins ? Not in my world and as in yours you have what you need and money in your pocket Cheers

[@frankquinones2193]

I love it, what's the weight and size needed for tow vehicle also how do you shower? Thanks

[@tomtee4442]

@@frankquinones2193 The single axle GVWR for trailers is 3500 total. Some trailer manufactures are tagging them at 2990 but they are really a 3500 pound single axle and 3500 total gross rating. I think he said the empty weight is 1,300 pounds and he carries 700 pounds for a total trailer weight of 2,000 pounds.. And he uses campsites with hook ups and most have showers. I'm pretty familiar with trailers because I have several and worked with them for about 25 years. You ask what vehicle? I would get a vehicle to pull 3500 pounds minimum. Most V-6 minimum trucks should work and some SUV's. Just check the maximum towing capacity for that vehicle. You can get trailer brakes when you buy them or add later. Usually cheaper to buy trailer with brakes always weigh trailer (At dump, rock quart usually free to weigh) to know actual weight for tow vehicle by it's self and with trailer weight them for safety to keep wear and tear down. To get trailer weight just subtract vehicle from pulling vehicle and trailer.

[@nleezie895]

AMEN

[@Loud_Thinker]

Exactly!

[@henryharrison3988]

These cargo trailers are built so much better than a regular camper. I bet that metal roof will never leak unlike a regular rubber camper roof

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

I agree

[@thedizude2005]

I’ve been thinking about doing something like this, now I’m convinced. I like the loft bed idea, but since it’s just my wife and I, I think I’ll loft the bed and put a seating area underneath

[@johnterry8958]

Or do a Murphy bed or folding bed that converts to a couch

[@eurekamarijka]

@@johnterry8958 But then you have to make/put it away every single day…

[@1klouisek]

We have been looking at the same underneath couch-overhead bed combo.

[@minvonuk]

Brilliant conversion well thought out, well done!!

[@brianmurphy9846]

I've been watching a ton of these lately, and your conversion is the closest I've seen to what I have in mind.

[@beamdoctor5637]

I did a conversion 10 years ago. If you don't have a trailer yet things I highly recommend is an Insulated trailer with vent, 2 windows and RV style door in front.

[@robligeti8353]

This is one of the best builds I've ever seen, remarkably practical and utilitarian! This is the kind of build I would do..

[@Nadine----]

Me too. I'm going to get one. I love it.

[@anitasimmons3599]

Wow, what a beautiful trailer. Thank you for sharing it. Safe travels.

[@mauricebattle978]

I like your trailer! Good work! Stay safe and happy!

[@Whats_Jco]

Very nice conversion! I like the kitchen outside!

[@adamfuller6655]

This is an excellent job, well put together, and some real no nonsense build out

[@debrabeaumont3330]

I really like that. Well thought out and so functional and practical. Happy camping and mountain biking w your family.

[@briand3837]

Great job. Well thought out. A tear drop on steroids, but affordable. I have been searching for months for something to copy/adapt and this is it. Thanks for sharing!

[@RimfireAddicted70]

That is a true quality build out. Excellent work and well thought out. If you ever go to sell that it'll have several people wanting it.

[@monoskier2112]

Absolutely amazing, you did a fantastic job. Nice and simple, it’s perfect, well done. You gave me some great ideas because I really hate sleeping in a tent😎🇨🇦

[@MrSqueegey]

Great setup,love it.i did see one conversion with the ramp door put on in reverse.the door opened upwards and created shade for the back w/ pvc post for legs.

[@davidswint2886]

Can you please share the link for the video with the upward opening ramp. Thanks.

[@MrSqueegey]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmiyq5-qgJ2Ad6M

[@johnporter5453]

This a the best conversion I've seen yet. Simple and clean. Good job

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

thanks!

[@jimcook3363]

Thanks Pete. I have owned four teardrops and are about done building a tiny camper but a friend with serious mobility issues is interested in camping and I think that a cargo trailer with a 36 inch door would be perfect for him. You have some great ideas that make economic sense.

[@timseymour2835]

Great ideas and video Pete. I have a 6 x 12 v-nose I use for my Harley and other things, but lately I've been thinking about using it for camping also. You gave some good ideas. Thanks 👍.

[@JOSERIZALADVENTURES]

I like your design. This is probably what I'm gonna do

[@freetheppl5376]

You did an Awesome job! TFS!

[@tedlov06]

Wow. You did a awesome job brother. Thanks for sharing👍👍

[@ModelHomeDeals]

Great set up we are thinking of doing something like this for a beach runner and wrapping it. So when we hit the beach with our family we have room for everyone and our stuff

[@ChickennGritss]

Nice build. Excellent idea with kitchen in the back keeping with the teardrop style, but looks more comfortable than a teardrop. Lot of excellent ideas in your rig. Stay Safe Out There. God Bless.

[@ianmoran9288]

Great job. Looks great. I like how you have the kitchen set up in the back like a tear drop camper.

[@danschmidt1]

Yup good until it starts raining!

[@mattbrodacki4980]

Great build thanks for sharing. Would be cool if kitchen swung out as well on heady duty hinges kinda like tire of overlanding trucks. Then could take down the wall and have access for bikes or other uses if wanting to pull bed out quick to load cargo or haul something... love window placements as well!

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Incredible conversion...super idea converting a cargo trailer; 6X12 would be perfect for me.

[@joshuabrown7034]

Thanks for some great ideas! Happy camping!

[@garretlewis4103]

Watched your video from one of the KZbin recommendations. Good job on the camper build. It looks pretty good and functional. As someone else mentioned, an awning off the rear would be good for your camp kitchen. Happy camping and maybe we will see you out there.

[@markreynolds6303]

Thanks for posting this, the build looks great and I can't believe how much you fit in there Including the bunk bed! You did a great job for $5k despite the naysayers about the outdoor kitchen, it works for you and that's what matters.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@tom_olofsson]

I am a fan of barn doors. You really focussed on the essentials. Great job.

[@connectionoflivesandinterests]

*Love the power underneath. Great planning. Still watching. 👍👍👍* Sharon in SC

[@jackpinesavage1628]

I like it! It would sure be nice if they had a place in my community where I could take our trailer, which is the same type as the one you have, with the door on the side, where I could have a crew build one like the one you have. For now, our trailer is used for storing the things she makes for craft shows. Well done! Excellent design!

[@d.mcdave8880]

Very nice. Simple, affordable, does what you need it to do. Looks good inside and out. Light and easier to tow than most. I am impressed. A very small generator or battery bank and inverter would run most everything (maybe not A/C) so you could be off grid if you wanted. Enjoy your camper. Thanks for sharing this.

[@vic44139]

One of the best conversions I've seen. Great job!!!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thank you!

[@wanjockey]

Great build. Always looking at others to see what works. Before diving in. Thank you for sharing.

[@connieb3819]

I've found that 8 gallon trash bags work the best in the toilet bucket. Flap the bag over outside of toilet, hang low under the seat. When done, tie off and trash. No mess to clean, no smell.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks , I will try that . Great idea. I have been filling the bucket with some water and dumping it at the campsite toilet. Someone also recommended cat litter.

[@Forsaken876]

@@AdventureContinuesAgain Link something for the toilet thx.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

@@Forsaken876 a.co/d/4qTq4RE

[@debbiearmstrong9128]

Ahhh! Go to overland vehicle systems for the ultimate 360 awning. We bought one for our 5 x 10 cargo and love it!!

[@jessealeman7952]

Has to be one of the nicest conversion trailers I've seen. Great job!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thank you!

[@wy3492]

Very nice. Everything is well planned out. Like it a lot.

[@rstpeter9965]

This conversion is amazing! Well designed, now you have me thinking about doing the exact same thing with the slightly bigger version! I also love mountain biking! The perfect set up! Thanks for sharing your trailer conversion!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks! I hope your conversion goes well.

[@ashmyrmidonsminions9271]

Nice job, simple and easy to replace anything that breaks/wears out.🛠 Love to see you put a shower in the bathroom area somehow.🚿 Be handy so you wouldn't be dependent on campsite or nature heh. Thanks for sharing, good video editing 🎥

[@whereman1199]

I really think you did a great job on this. I bet it was fun to do as well. Love the kitchen, toilet and ac. Best I have watched yet. I want to do this. Thank you for sharing.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks

[@SEAQUEST-R]

Best Cargo Trailer build I've seen, to-date. REAListic and affordable for the average weekend warrior on a budget.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

thanks!!!

[@marianfrances4959]

Very nice, simple and well planned! 👍😉🌲🔥🇨🇦

[@jamessimpson927]

Nicely done. Well thought out design. Camping is meant to put you in the outdoors. This gives you a secure place to sleep and protection from any crappy weather.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

THANKS!

[@jorgeltrevilla]

Thanks for sharing. Super awesome. Love the MTB ida.

[@overland_dadsfl]

One for the best build I've seen in years... Great work. Camp on.👍👍👍

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@problemwithauthority]

I like the build. I do have reservations on hanging bikes on the rear from the forks though. I think the risk of having a bike fall off would have me rethinking that mounting.

[@italRotty]

innovative , neat, quality work , simple and comfortable. one thing i think I would have added was insulation for the heat and cold, otherwise nice work ! enjoy !!

[@shawndsinclair3067]

Very nice and simple design. Great Job !

[@dennisschultz1175]

This is one of the best layouts I have seen. Great job!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@brantleystokes5127]

Ours is a 7 x 16 with 7' interior height. We have the ramp which we drop down to make a porch. Bug screen to separate interior from porch

[@huckleberrychris]

Brantley, what brand is yours and how much does it weight? Sounds like the perfect size for me. Do you have videos?

[@tomtee4442]

@@huckleberrychris I think he said: Diamond cargo empty weight 1300, around 700 pounds of gear - bed - ac - toilet etc. And GVWR 3500 pounds. Plenty of enclosed trailers for sale economically priced at the trailer manufactures and dealer lots in the middle of Douglas GA. These enclosed trailers taken care of hold their value unlike campers.

[@LookOutside...]

@@tomtee4442 Brantley's is bigger though. and maybe a different manufacturer

[@tomtee4442]

Not heard of that brand. They do have a, I think it's a 2000 lb GVWR single axle trailer. I'm not as familiar with the specs though. I only like to purchase the 3500 and up axles.

[@tomtee4442]

@@LookOutside... when I buy cargo trailers they mostly sit more than they run down the road I just buy the cheapest and most all of them go by the same dimensions on the inside and out some of them just use a little better quality and welding and a little bit more steel and metal used. And the stuff that comes out of the middle of Douglas Georgia is fast and economical but that's what everybody wants and buys. If you're not running it commercially, everyday and running It wide Open on the roads it should last for many and many of years. I have one that's a 2000 model and I've seen some cargo trailers still in the 1980s running around. But the biggest crazy thing I see is people selling cargo and race car bumper pull trailers they won't too much for them I can go buy new cheaper than what they are selling them for that's why I did go by new cargo trailers on mine.

[@dontcrymary]

Love the fork mount idea! Might add that to my 6x12!

[@vaughnmaurt5013]

Please report back when one or both bikes fall off...I have the fork brackets and I would not trust them to hold, without @ racket strap or someway of securing

[@bensutherland6871]

I have one similar but without windows it's a little more stealthy but you gave me alot of great ideas for mine Thanks

[@mikeaileenmonahan4496]

My husband and I got a tiny toy hauler {10.5} because, like you, we like to be outside. We are Practicing for the RV life for retirement in a few years! Thanks for the video. It is a Great build. I bet you’re making great memories with your nine year old. Love the bike rack. Enjoy!

[@kennybelcher8240]

Nice build. Thanks for sharing.

[@johnw65]

Thanks for sharing your great ideas! I'm converting a 4x6 into a microcamper and it's a challenge with such a small area.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

4x6 would be a really fun build. I would like to try a 4x8 build overlander style.

[@joshuagarner6981]

Dude I dig it. The bunk bed was the exact solution I needed to see. The rear kitchen is perfect. With the exception of my own preferences and a shower/toilet insert I am going to use a lot of your design in our refit. Perfect hunting trailer design.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Awesome, glad you liked my ideas

[@darrisnelson5223]

LOVE the fork mounts! Nice build…especially love the kitchen!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@b3877896]

Cozy and nicely done!

[@sheltdog8463]

One more suggestion, I also coated the roof with a product called Cool Seal, found in roofing Dept. My interior is insulated and covered but adding that cool seal also helped, the seal can also be tinted don't let the paint Dept tell you it can't!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

I actually just coated the roof with white dicor rubber coating 2 days ago. I can now place my hand on the roof in full son and its not even warm.

[@mooreroadstotravelon3]

Great remodel of the trailer. Thanks for sharing your ideas! Safe travels from Laurie and Rick

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@racheec2398]

Luv it! I have a nose tip closed in & I like how you used that space for bathroom/storage! Nice build! Tnx for sharing

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks

[@bigbadbri08]

Genius I love the whole design

[@whollymary7406]

I like your idea for the toilet for the same reasons as you and it is nice to be safe from bears or other predators especially the two legged kind

[@raywalsh8807]

Great job! simple and efficient. Thanks for some ideas.

[@deanmatheny5089]

Great job, I've got a 7*12 I WAS worried but you've given me some great ideas!! Thank you!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Good luck with your build. 7x12 you should be able to fit beds in nicely

[@DesignBuildFixReview]

I like the power under the trailor idea no one does that. Nice bed too.

[@moretoexplore6736]

well shoot! I was making plans to do tent camping this summer but now I don't think so. Guess i have to invest in something like yours. Thanks for the reminder!

[@zenithnardin]

This in my opinion is one of the best setup I've seen. I love it.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!!!

[@khem1230]

Thank you so much for the inspiration and ideas...currently in the planning phase of converting an enclosed 7x16 as well.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks, I hope your project goes well!

[@RussellBettsgogov]

Suggestion: If you can, reverse the door on the fridge so it opens the other way. Beautiful job on the camper. Love it.

[@samsiryani9023]

Sir I must admit that you did a great job for a conversion, it’s basic but complete and very comfortably safe camping.. awesome work and it’s a perfect stealthy camper. Enjoy sir well done and well deserved.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Hey thanks!

[@moriver3857]

Great job of camping incognito. Awesome job.

[@rocb4222]

Man I love this idea,wanted a nice trailer but this seems more logical and if need storage in the winter months,great idea dude no shame

[@jaygraef5922]

Very well done!! I like the kitchen being outside also.

[@aacc2622]

This is great!! Well done 👍

[@leem200]

Looks really great and clean. Well thought out and love the less is more especially with the toilet. It has everything you need and then some. Thank you for shating.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@maryfield6920]

Northern Michigan here. Love all your ideas. Happy camping!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks Mary

[@mariahbrown9991]

Pete this is so amazingly helpful. I am an upholster and do a lot of work on the road but I want to use it for camping also so I was thinking of making drop down tables that could be used for beds also when camping. Love the idea of the head in the nose and all the little spaces for storage. The after photos are so helpful in seeing wall mounting and electrical. I will contact diamond which i what i believe is your trailer brand. Thanks for the help.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

I made a mistake, the trailer I have is Dynamite not Diamond. But I think they are all made in Georgia and trailers company's put their sticker brand on them. Good luck with your build. Its fun and gratifying to do.

[@sheltdog8463]

I myself converted my 6 by 12 trailer into a camper. People trip out on it. The best thing I ever did was that I insulated underneath with extra wide and thick insulation and I enclosed it with roofing tin! I used self tapping screws and a roof adhesive called NP-1 to seal all the joints and the outside edges! I tow mine with a Dodge Dakota with a V-6 engine and and I enclosed the bottom you can definitely tell a difference with the gas mileage and the wind drag!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Interesting, good to know

[@bryanchannell7715]

U got have one of the best conversations I have seen bro , so proud of your work

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks so much Bryan!

[@DHFlip18]

Love your trailer, what a great idea with the bunk beds. And of course as an avid downhill rider I'm here checking out your hardtail 😆 What a cool way to mount bikes!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

LOL

[@cliftonsargent9992]

That was the 1st that came to my mind lol I would do a door swing change on the fridge . Other than that I really like it. 👍I would love to have it for myself.

[@turborave9274]

well done sir! who dislikes something like this? it's excellent.

[@bendrinkin1782]

Nice! We also have a grey 4Runner. I just ordered a 6x12 cargo trailer last week for our camper build. We’ve got an rtt I’ll mount up top. The inside will be the kitchen/bathroom, storage and maybe a futon

[@snoopdog6426]

Nicely done sir. Awesome job.

[@cowboygeologist7772]

Wow, what a great job! The only thing I noticed was the face of the upper kitchen cabinets could have been brought forward to be almost up against the closed back doors of the trailer. Then you would have had shelving or cabinets near the head of the upper bunk bed and TV area. Just a though to give a little more space. You are very talented to make this. I have a 4runner too.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Yeah that sounds like a cool idea. I was trying to build as quickly as possible. There are a few things I might change if I were to do it again.

[@williamnale7835]

Great build and interesting to see different builds. I too have a 6 x12' cargo conversion trailer. I went more minimalistic with mine. Cedar fence pickets on the walls and ceiling with a rustic Pergo wood style floor with iron pipe curtain rails and Southwestern blankets on the bed, below the front counter and as a curtain which completes the rustic lodge decor. I have a twin size bed with a 10" memory foam mattress and storage under it. I ran a perimeter of white Christmas lights around the edge of the ceiling/walls vs LED for the rough and ready look. I have a 6' x 16" counter across the front with granite tiles. Fridge is below it on the left and a portable a/c will go on the right side when needed. I have a heavy duty power strip under it which run my microwave, fridge, toaster, coffee pot, ect. I have a sink sprayerconnected to an outside fitting for water inside. I ran a flat extension cord to the back with a channel going across the side door for power to my 32" computer monitor , tube amp, chargers and extra lamps. The trailer can be converted back to a cargo trailer pretty easily. Just had the roof coated and the outside redone, so my 16yo cargo trailer is functioning as my full time home when I'm in the US. I have a townhome in the Phillipines where I plan to spend most of my time.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Very cool

[@jamesgibbs8827]

Dang, sounds awesome, also so does lifestyle, Living the Dream. Congrats, Stay Safe Stay Healthy, God Bless you my friend.

[@kevinwburke1]

Awesome. Love this simplicity. Everything you need and nothing you don't including a ridiculous cost.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@MegaGreenbike]

Fantastic build. Very well thought out!

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

Thanks!

[@johnvineyard67]

nice build...best ideas yet

[@CaptainHowdy420]

Great job on the conversion👍👍. I'm going to do the exact same only difference will be a hinged roof over the cooking area. Once the barn doors open you can latch the roof and keep the doors in place. possibly put up a shower curtain and have an outdoor shower. Happy camping.

[@AdventureContinuesAgain]

That sounds really cool

[@wownewstome6123]

@@AdventureContinuesAgain Thanks for sharing your build. Always good to learn new tips. Here's a good video I think you will like. It's packed with good info! Title, "Should a Travel Trailer be Level When Towing? Answered | The Savvy Campers" (at channel, The Savvy Campers). Also, its really key to get many aspect right, such as the % of the total load resting on the tongue. Here is a good article from Consumer Reports. They even consulted with the NTSA. Title: Should a Travel Trailer be Level When Towing? Answered | The Savvy Campers Subtitle: Expert advice to help make your towing adventure a smooth experience (Aug. 29, 2019) I hope you enjoy your camping!

[@rkroz4005]

Thanks for sharing some good ideas and use of space!

[@tiffanygoldberg9463]

Great video! Well thought out ideas! Great job!👍🏼