Not Your Ordinary Teardrop Camper (Bean Trailer)

The next evolution in small camper trailers is fiberglass, composite, and an insane attention to detail. Throughout this teardrop trailer factory tour you will have the chance to look into Bean Trailer's operations and see why they continue to be at the front of the pack. It's no coincidence. This systematic approach to building camper trailers is actually quite new in the industry. Especially when you compare it with the substandard RV industry practices which we have all come to know.
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[@mixflip]

I've said it before....bean trailers are like works of art. Thanks for the tour behind the curtain of bean.

[@BeanTrailer]

Right on... right?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Have to heart this one. Got to love someone who can join in, even when the jokes at their own expense. I know you can dish out the jokes, but I really appreciate that you can be on the receiving end as well.

[@DDMSteveB]

We are local to Utah and we were able to meet Richard in person who walked us through the manufacturing process before we placed an order. As soon as we saw them in person we were hooked. Placed our order the following day and now we’re approaching our first anniversary with our Bean. It’s one of my favorite toys I’ve ever bought.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

How cool is that! It’s always nice to have somebody backing up what you say in these videos. Bean trailers are neat on paper, but once you see them in real life it’s just another level. And Richard, what a great guy. Before we understood what Bean was all about we would read through owner testimonials. There was a ton of them that seem to like Richard as much as they like their Bean.

[@davedave1398]

There should be a drinking game where you have to take a shot every time he says “right” 😂. These trailers are awesome!

[@mtbeastfamilybiking9922]

Right?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I love that you can joke Dave, and complement Mark in the same statement! You are awesome! i’ve got the chance to get to know Mark a bit better this summer and he would say the same type of joke towards you. I guarantee you are giving him a good laugh with this comment.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

The next rounds on me! 😂

[@mark-di5pf]

I'll drink to that! Right?

[@mtbeastfamilybiking9922]

I'm drunk just THINKING about playing that drinking game! 🤣

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

This is incredible work Drew! They should be very proud of what they’re doing at Bean. I mean, an in house quality control manager in the RV industry?!? Who woulda thought? Thanks for what you guys do!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

So true on the in house quality control statement. Someone said it so well the first year we started the channel. They said something like, "If any other industry had quality control like the RV industry they would be heavily sued and shut down. But for some reason they seem to be able to skirt outside the repercussions of their actions/or lack of actions."

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

@@PlayingwithSticks truth!

[@BirdPhish]

Every time I use an ATM I'll be thinking of Bean now...lol. Great job on the tour Drew!

[@mark-di5pf]

Please use ATMs as often as you can! :)

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Every time I hit an ATM it is hard not to think about Bean. It was crazy how many different banks Sterling ATM was making signage for. I always admire these people who find a very niche market and find success in it.

[@mikemead2315]

Their ability to see opportunities in really different product ranges by seeing what is common is very impressive indeed.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I'm glad you caught that. After getting the videos back home I realized I had a few gaps in telling that story. Always tough when you hit the edit and realize you are missing portions that take the story from point a to point b.

[@maykouhansen6713]

Great tour! I love how innovative they are! I love their trailers and I think its very functional yet still has craftsmanship design! Thanks for sharing Drew!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Agreed! Love that you post on here by the way. You rock!

[@richardhouvener6423]

Hi Drew, I've left messages here in the past, I have a Casita 17, but if I were to downsize to a teardrop, I would quickly gravitate to a Bean. As you point out fiberglass is about indestructible, light and waterproof and makes for a trouble free trailer experience. Small and simple is a mantra for life. Great tour, keep 'em coming!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Like you it was the 13 foot fiberglass trailer that opened our eyes to Bean. I often find myself wishing everyone lived in Alaska. Then they could see how much Alaskans love their fiberglass trailers. Yes, we have a bunch of other trailers running around but nobody’s talking highly about them. Everybody is scanning the buy and sell pages hoping to land fiberglass in our damp and harsh climate. And another thing about Alaskans… don’t tell them I said this they won’t like it. They tend to do a really poor job protecting and maintaining their toys. And I think this is because we bounce from one subsistence season to the next and no time in between to get the lawn mowed, the house washed, the trailers serviced. And I think this is why I get the privilege of seeing so many old beat up fiberglass trailers on the road that are running just as well as the day their parents bought them. While the other older trailers in Alaska sit in the boneyard.

[@DavidMedina4All]

Same here. A good compromise between the Casita 17’ and the teardrop is the Casita Patriot (13’)… if lucky enough to find one.

[@mgarcia8878]

Please don’t compare to Elon. Bean actually delivers on their promises.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. I was hoping that Elon pulled some responses out of people. Haha agree with you there on your statement as well. Mark has vision, but he’s grounded in reality. I really want to make sure Mark and his team get the views on this video they deserve so I took a bit of risk with the title.

[@mgarcia8878]

@@PlayingwithSticks great content as always. This is awesome for those of us who are not near the plant but are still really interested in the product. It’s great to see the quality and pride that goes into this product. When you have that top down culture and leadership you can’t help but build a solid product. Great job bean team!!!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@mgarcia8878 You said it perfectly Mike! The quality and pride part that is.

[@mgarcia8878]

@@PlayingwithSticks not the other part? Lol… kidding

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. I realized if I said everything you mentioned was right on I would sound pretty arrogant. Haha

[@rabbi6225]

That was a highly inspired factory tour. Great job and thank you for showing us around.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thank you! So good to hear you enjoyed it. It was one of those fun experiences I was hoping I could capture on camera. I was glad it all worked out.

[@johnreynolds7136]

This was great to watch. Everytime I watch your videos I cant wait to get a teardrop...but the prices! Keep up the great work with these videos, we love them.

[@bikingal4283]

check out road toad abode by Camp Inn... half the price...good quality..(yeah I just ordered one after watching and learning for 3 years.) Cosmo has a video about them too

[@FreysOnTheSide]

Solid edit and great flow. Really cool walk through Drew. Bean trailer are an amazingly built and I had my eye on them for several years. Thanks for a sneak peak of behind the scenes look at bean.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Much appreciated coming from you Matt. I could see Bean being on your shortlist. I’ve noticed you and I have very similar taste in terms of what we want and don’t want from a camper.

[@mikemead2315]

Three month build time is very impressive.

[@docash2107]

Henry Ford would roll out 9000 Model T's in one day. That was in 1925. So for me the 3 months is very slow.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Yes, in today's industry that really is quite the feat! And I think there is something to be said about not holding onto people's down payments for over a year.

[@jasonh4167]

@@docash2107 ther was nothing to a model t

[@YOOPHAROUND]

So cool to see the Bean Factory! Thank you for taking us on a tour and to learn about the Bean! 👍🏻 Such a well made teardrop 👏🏼

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks guys! Looks like your channel is doing well. I saw you got some good views on that KZbin short yesterday. Keep it up!

[@YOOPHAROUND]

@@PlayingwithSticks Thank you! Yes! We were excited to see our short get good response yesterday! 😆 Thank you for checking it out!

[@joycejohnson1396]

A good video it is always amazing to go into a facility and see how things are made. Thank you.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks Joyce! Glad we were able to give you a peak into Bean's operations.

[@justinfowler2857]

Great tour. Just wish they were more within my budget.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

It is tough. But, I think many of the principles behind this build have trickled down into some of the budget trailers in the last few years. You just need to be okay with a squardrop shape vs the nice clean lines of a teardrop and sacrifice that 1 piece shell. Check out Runaways newest composite camper. Quite the bang for your buck. Well, it was when I looked a year ago. Seems like everyone's prices really took a hike this year with the supply chain issues worldwide.

[@justinfowler2857]

@@PlayingwithSticks Thanks. Will do.

[@DavidSamuelPeckinpah]

I remember looking at tear drops thinking they were the absolute coolest thing as a child. You, Mark, and Richard Bradford, are the reason I am ordering one 2022/2023 and I am pretty stoked. Waiting on their 3d builder, and really to see what Bean plans on throwing at us this year or next!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Same goes for me. At my ma and pa local ski slope there was a photo in the bathroom. It was this black and white photo with some guys living out of the teardrop in the parking lot of the slopes. It was dated just after World War II. That image really stuck with me. And then maybe 25-30 years later I saw this picture of a teardrop camped on the edge of the Oregon Coast. And that was it for me. Same goes for my wife! Funny how you can be influenced just by a photo or seeing one driving down the road. Once you see one they are hard to get out of your mind.

[@mark-di5pf]

Thanks David. I don't remember teardrops from childhood but I do remember seeing one when Cindy and I were looking for a trailer. Immediately, the shape and function made so much sense to me. Aerodynamic, sleeping space, galley and storage. Everything we needed and nothing we didn't.

[@paulchristiansen7014]

the stock BEAN is the I thinking of going as it simplest at it's best..

[@Hanginwithherky]

Great tour great build Drew. Thanks for bringing this to us

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Great to hear from you guys! Hope all is well. It's been a while since I have hung out with you guys and Herky online.

[@Hanginwithherky]

We are well. Currently I Ed am in Costa Rica and Nancy is home in Indiana. Will explain in this Sundays video.

[@alisonhilaryco1898]

Super cool.

[@victory-loriebarnett1877]

Was v excited to catch the newest upload on Playing With Sticks! Bonus, it’s at the Bean factory 😍

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thank you! I really appreciate this comment.

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

Very nice Drew! .… Nice camera work whoever was doing that 😊… Bean trailer is certainly very inspirational thanks for sharing it! ~ Maria

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks Maria! I was super fortunate in that Nick at Bean trailer was willing to carry my camera on the gimbal for the walkthrough. Which is quite the feat beings he had never used a Panasonic camera before or my gimble. I believe I also used my wide manual lens for this whole walking/talking segment which meant he had no autofocus. We had a bit of peaking audio on my mic, but other than that it went so much better than I thought it would. Huge shout out to Nick for the help. I have tried to teach May how to carry the camera on the gimbal, but no luck yet. Still working on building those muscles up. Haha.

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

@@PlayingwithSticks - Ha! I understand about the gimbal! I got one from my “secret Santa” two years ago. (My kids, their spouses, Chris and I do Secret Santa for Christmas - so we shop for one adult rather than all… Makes Christmas gifting fun and much more relaxing!) Anyway… I’m still getting used to my gimbal too. It does takes some fancy wrist work! LoL. Nick at Bean did a great job! Hope.you, May, East and Rye have some fantastic memories in your awesome camper. Many blessings! ~ Maria

[@tertessa]

Thanks for the tour

[@PlayingwithSticks]

You are most welcome!

[@meanbean859]

Such a quality video! Thank you!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Always fun to run into a fellow Beaner on here!

[@meanbean859]

Well, we appreciate all that you do. We researched our Bean and other trailers a bunch before the purchase and you were part of that process.

[@davidkozelsky]

No toilet, no go….would my wife say! Lol great looking and quality made tear drops.

[@docash2107]

Did anyone count how many times he said "right". Geez. Oh, nice info in the video!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Glad you enjoyed the video. I'm waiting for someone to respond with the actual count.

[@jimfrider6778]

Very interesting tour. Bean has a great manufacturing advantage over its competitors. They already have all the expertise in house to do industry leading fabrication and engineering. They should clean up in the coming years in this market.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Good observation. Many small camper companies would like to move into composite design. But it is not easy. Like you said Bean is positioned for any easy startup and growth.

[@hershlawfirmpc]

Great content, Drew. Keep up the good work

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Aww, thank you so much. These little positive comments mean a lot to me.

[@hershlawfirmpc]

Drew, a little off topic, but can you recommend any usb-powered heat blankets. Your most recent review video on heat blankets excluded the usb category

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@hershlawfirmpc I appreciate you asking this question. Especially beings I didn't even know usb heated blankets existed. Looks like I have some researching ahead of me.

[@patrickmckowen2999]

Great vid Cheers

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks Patrick. Really good seeing you on here. And there’s something about your hat. At first glance it always reminds me of a cowboy hat, which makes me feel at home.

[@williamlesh109]

Awesome video

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks William!

[@yooperdog]

Great video, love seeing how things are made. I noticed that the roof rack on some of those trailers impeded the opening of the maxxfan though. Love the fiberglass though. We are passionately waiting on a scout.

[@mark-di5pf]

Maxxfan does not need to open 100% to operate at 100% capacity.

[@matthewnelson5699]

Was looking for one of these used due to price point but ended up going with a CampInn. Same idea of trying to maximize quality and really engineer the product. I think they have a good product at Bean but CampInn seemed to have the craftsman expertise at this point so went that way.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

We completely understand that thinking. To me a Vistabule and CampInn are just a completely different type of trailer. When you’re comparing these type of trailers it’s not really about quality it’s more about taste. they’re both really pushing the envelope in terms of design. I’m a big aesthetics guy and love anything classic. So I lean towards a stick and aluminum trailer. It’s not until recent years that I’ve been willing to sacrifice the look for a bit of corner cutting. Meaning my life is so busy right now, I am starting to see the value in a trailer that is a little more forgiving in terms of care and longevity. But at the same time I’m so flavor of the week I honestly would have trouble choosing a trailer if I had to get one today. Both styles have their pros and cons like any trailer.

[@matthewnelson5699]

@@PlayingwithSticks for sure. I think many of the stick and aluminum just look like they would struggle with a long life but a few brands do it with obviously higher end processes. Bean is more of the cool/sleek look I like but something about the craftsmanship of wood finishes is great. Tight joints with high quality wood that's not particle board is something I respect. Thanks for sharing tips and options like this though. Helped me make the decision to jump in.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

You nailed it. With the right eyes there’s a pretty big difference between builds even though the spec sheets look similar.

[@bikingal4283]

good choice, me too

[@mrdave22]

quality, God bless

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Yes, it is truly nice to see the attention to detail in these builds. Right now I kind of see the small camper industry, especially the overland industry, as the "Space Race." It is fun watching everyone try to one up each other because it is really improving the industry as a whole. Unfortunately it is driving up the prices at the same time. But, with time I think it will all balance out.

[@trailmanorgeek3251]

i enjoyed watching ,nice video

[@joshua.harazin]

8:50 I see what you did there. Great video as always.

[@noobfisherman1626]

I see the vision in expanding your content materials. I like it and will keep showing support and "Like" clicks!!!!!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thank you! You have no idea what is coming. Haha. I think you will like it as there will be quite a bit of Hmong content as I take my trailer out crossing through villages along the way. I have already learned so many new camping techniques and styles from the local villages. Super excited to share it all with you.

[@bucktalesoutdoors7566]

Great tour Drew ! No doubt the Bean is a well built camper. Looking forward to the next tour.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thank you for the comment. I feel so bad I haven’t been over to your channel in such a long time. I’m finding working, raising the boys, being a good husband, and running a KZbin channel really restricts my leisure KZbin time. I always tell myself this is a season. But I also know the work ethic my parents ingrained in me… I have a feeling the next season will be filled with things as well. Haha

[@bucktalesoutdoors7566]

@@PlayingwithSticks No worries Drew, Lord knows you have a very full life and have so much on your plate just with work and family let alone this KZbin business. I am amazed that with all the subscribers that you have you still take the time to answer every single comment. That speaks volumes to me about how the kind of person you are above and beyond being a great family man. The fact that you have taken the time to watch and comment on even one of my worthless videos is a compliment. Keep doing what you’re doing, we love your content and always appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experiences. Take care. Don

[@nguyentuan1990]

i guess the down side of fiberglass one piece body is if someone hits you, even it 's a minor accident just a dent, the whole trailer is trashed.

[@betweenthepines4000]

Yet another great tear drop video! Always enjoy your uploads Drew. Pumped to make a walk around video of my one off custom overland trailer for you to show off

[@PlayingwithSticks]

What neck of the woods are you from? Maybe we can make a video of your trailer this summer/fall.

[@betweenthepines4000]

Whistler BC Canada my friend. Could do a video and send it over if youre interested. Unfortunately right now I have 4’ of snow in my front yard

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@betweenthepines4000 Oh wow, you are living the dream! I'm pretty picky about my content. Not, that mine is great, but I try to keep it up to the standard of the channel. If you think you can do it, I would be open to talk. Love sharing people's builds.

[@betweenthepines4000]

Let me see what I can do. I watch almost all your content so I will do my best for you. Love the channel.

[@phillipconnolly5020]

As a fellow business owner, I am excited about the company's success, but something inside me says this industry won't be booming for decades. Totally admit I could be wrong and hope I am, but I think we are still riding a post covid, outdoors, van life, oooo look at me I overland phase, which will probably taper off.

[@mark-di5pf]

As with all things, this industry will have its ups and downs. I am okay with a compression because it drives out the inefficient and those with no real differentiation who are only surviving because of a growth market. I am good with survival of the fittest.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Yes, we definitely are in a bubble. And at the same time once it goes back to normal I still think there will be a pretty sizable market there. Even before Covid things were growing at a pretty crazy rate. When the bubble pops it will definitely shut down a few ma and pa shops around the country. But, the folks that are putting their heart and souls into the builds and designs I think will do just fine.

[@phillipconnolly5020]

@@PlayingwithSticks Well said! Wishing nothing but success for everyone in 2022. Purchased a turtle back trailer and considered a Bean but I wanted an inside out trailer that could go anywhere my rubicon could. I absolutely love it and the next purchase will probably be a leisure van. Totally different class, but would allow the wife and I to travel for a couple months around the country. Cheers!

[@TjBruce817]

Not sure that is a compliment any more, but nice trailers and great business.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. To be honest it was just to make sure Bean got the views they deserve. You don’t get many words in the thumbnail so I wanted something that made people want to know what this man and his operation was about. Is it the strengths of Elon Musk or the weaknesses? The viewer gets to decide

[@zackdemundo]

Excellent. Instructional. Can I get a combo trailer that dispenses 10’s and 20’s?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. Love the wit in this comment. I would never have thought of combining the two. And the beauty is you only have to remember one pin for your locks and cash :)

[@mark-di5pf]

We will call it the Bean Machine!

[@byronjaques8552]

I didn’t see any mention of the insulation and R value of the bean trailer?

[@sambonilla416]

I have a Subaru outback with a 2.5 L engine. I was wondering what is your hook up to the bean. “The hitch and ball”.

[@abennett]

Your videos are done so well. Do you use Final Cut Pro to edit? Love all the b-roll

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thank you. I really appreciate that. People laugh when I tell them this. But it is the truth. Even though Wayback in the day I used to use Premier and I’m comfortable using it. I actually use Vegas pro. If you watch the channel at all you know I’m a pretty frugal guy. At $149 for a lifetime license there’s no way I’m jumping back over to Adobe to pay monthly subscription fees. 😂😂😂😂 I honestly find any software works. Once you get to learn them and the keyboard shortcuts you can establish a pretty consistent and quick workflow.

[@QAIRC]

Loved watching this as a quality professional always inspired. As I watched production, I can see one of these as a truck bed module instead of a trailer :). Think thunderbird 2. I can imagine bar the wheel wells could be pretty much plug and play. Any chance?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I like the way you think Dan! Like I said these guys are pretty innovative. So it doesn't hurt to put a bug in their ear. You never know what may come out in the future.

[@QAIRC]

@@PlayingwithSticks do you know, are the wheels fully outside of the shell? I see the fenders are. I’m going to get my tape measure out and mock this up :). With the large through box at the front, would seem a perfect marriage as spare… can sit on top of the box aka old school Dakar trophy truck style. Only challenge I see is keeping the counter top low. But a hatch back truck kitchen would be a new thing.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@QAIRC I saw enough of the builds in multiple stages at the plant. So I should know this, but I can't remember. "A hatch back truck kitchen." Love it!

[@garretlewis4103]

Cool seeing the Bean factory. Did you find us some Bean samples?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Wouldn’t that be nice! They have a lot of neat prototypes that hit the boneyard. I was thinking to myself I wouldn’t mind taking one of those home.

[@abennett]

Aren't there seams on the curved parts? Or is it literally a one piece shell, with the roof and the sides having zero seams? Confused on that part.

[@mark-di5pf]

One piece like an upside down boat hull.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Great question. Mark answered it well but I’ll add a little bit of my observation. When I first saw this trailer I thought there were end caps on it. They look like the end caps you see on a T@G trailer. But when you get to see them in person they’re these beautifully molded propeller like angles on the edges. They still refer to them as end caps, but it’s all part of the one piece fiberglass shell. I asked Mark why he added them. I told them that there could be confusion when people see the trailer online thinking they are a piece of trim. Mark‘s response was that he added them because he has the ability to do so. Meaning he can make a beautiful design that can only be appreciated in person and it’s something other manufacturers don’t have the ability or willingness to do. This sounds like a ridiculous comparison but it’s like seeing Michelangelos David in person versus in a book. Anyone who has done this knows exactly what I mean. And even the replicas all throughout the city just aren’t the same. Unfortunately bean is one of those trailers you really have to see in person to appreciate the way a Bean owner appreciates their trailer.

[@wquon2007]

I was there around 6 months ago, looks like their production floor has doubled! I'm looking to get one of these as soon as other priorities are taken care of. just wish I could get the black bean with the regular height for the short ppl in my life lol.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Yeah it’s tough there’s always a compromise with trailers. In my opinion the Meaner Bean is a good compromise between the two needs.

[@mark-di5pf]

you can get Black Bean with the lower suspension of Meaner Bean.

[@roscoe007]

Wow awesome vid! Do you think I would fit in a teardrop trailer I stand at 6’7” but I’m thinking I might need it custom. If so do you have any recommendations? Love your channel! 🔥🙌🏻

[@PlayingwithSticks]

There are quite a few out there that would fit you in terms of sleeping length. The one that comes to mind is this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqPVpHaGi9uph7s No lack of space for your feet with this build.

[@roscoe007]

@@PlayingwithSticks Awesome!!! Thanks for sharing the video I really appreciate it, I’ll check it out right now 😁

[@greysonosterberg7101]

Hi Drew! I’ve just discovered your channel and I like what I see! I am subbed ;) in one of your videos, you mentioned your qualifications as an outdoorsman, and it sounded like you may have even received some of those qualifications at, like, a formal higher education. I was wondering if you could elaborate on that. Thanks, a prospective college student desperate for a degree that will actually carry him to the outdoors

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Thanks for joining the community Greyson. Like you I was eager to find my way outdoors as a profession. One of my degrees is in outdoor education. I never actually used it besides summers running adventure courses at children’s camps. There’s so many options out there. My family including myself took the science route towards the outdoors. My firstdegree was in bio chemistry because I was split between the world of outdoor biology and pre-medicine. I thought it be a good way to meet my medical school prerequisites, while also sneaking in some random biology courses. From all the outdoor enthusiast I’ve worked with or played alongside of I think the NOLS courses seem to be the most effective. Now I’m dating myself here this has been over 20 years so I don’t know how popular they are today. Back in the day it was typically between people doing Outward Bound or NOLS. NOLS seems to focus a lot more on the technical aspect, and I was always a bit jealous of those guys because their skill sets in the field were incredible. And a neat thing about a course like this is you don’t have to dedicate four years to picking up a great skill set. I typically don’t tout my skills as an outdoorsman, so I’m guessing you’re referring to my video on Coldwater survival. This was a really neat internship I did in my final semesters of my outdoor education degree. One last thing I think I should share is the benefit of college. I’ve gone back-and-forth on is it worth it? But looking back on all the opportunities I’ve had just having the “paper” in hand has opened many doors for me. One neat thing that worked really well for me was using my biology and chemistry credits to get into the national park service at an early age. After a semester of college courses you typically will have enough credits to easily get into entry-level or a bit above entry-level GS positions with the National Park Service. This not only will give you incredible experiences every summer between your coursework but it also gives you a much higher pay rate than the friends around you. And then it’s building your résumé as you’re getting experience in the field where typically many of your peers will not. Basically when you graduate you’re going to have a really nice résumé and some cash in your pocket to get you started on the right foot. Now obviously there’s many different ways to get outdoors as a profession, this is just a route I took. Hope this helps.

[@greysonosterberg7101]

@@PlayingwithSticks wow, this is such a generous response! Thank you, I only hoped to have a response at all. This is great information. I’ve never actually heard of NOLS or Outward Bound, so I’ll definitely look into those. They sound great already! College is pretty much definitely a green light, just a matter of deciding what to study and when to do it! And believe it or not, my curiosity was sparked by a very brief comment in your video about layering, when you mentioned your cold water survival internship. That video is definitely next up in the queue. Thank you for all your advice!!

[@whanner]

Right.....

[@countrymagic61]

Awesome video...I'm not knocking the host at Bean. However, how many times does he say "Right?" 🤣 I just find it funny. It is like his trademark....Right?😂

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I’m thinking maybe he just had so much respect for my knowledge of trailers that he had to confirm he was doing it right 😂 you know beings he runs one of the largest aluminum fabricating shops in the West and I slept at a Holiday Inn the night before. Glad you enjoyed the video Mikell. It’s always nice to see a guy with a cowboy hat commenting on here. Reminds me of my family.

[@countrymagic61]

@@PlayingwithSticks I do like the quality concept of the Bean trailers. I just like the tear drop trailers. I have watched many videos related to camping/overlanding trailers. Mainly the DIY trailers. Due to my current issues and situation, I am unable to do anything. The manufactured trailers are way out of my price range. The DIY versions, I can only try different versions drawn up in Sketchup. By doing this, I can see what will work and won't work. I have been researching (more like just looking around) different ways to construct a DIY overlanding trailer which will suit my needs and wants. I am even looked at how to creating a mold to create a DIY fiberglass trailer. There are so many different ways to construct a tear drop, or any other style of camping/overlanding trailer. One of the hardest things I have seen is getting quality/industry standard materials at a DIY cost. I may have to finally settle on the poor man's fiberglass method🤣 One of these days I am in hopes of hauling my own trailer out on adventures. Till then I am very slowly getting materials and gear to build out the back of my truck which I have a used camper shell/topper I had gotten a good deal on. Keep on creating interesting and educational videos. They do help people like me.👍😎😀

[@PlayingwithSticks]

This is great feedback. I think over the years I have put in enough time designing and dreaming about my ideal trailer I probably could have built 2 of them in that time frame 😂

[@theodoreolson8529]

I'd like to buy their base model next year. Right?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha.

[@mrsMOmiles]

Man I love these trailers..but we're a family of 6 and the rooftop tent just isn't something we want to do...wish they made bigger beans ..the giant bean lol awesome tour!!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Hmmm…. Mark? Mark, President of Bean Trailer. Looks like you have a request here. Which gives me an excuse to put in my request that I often do as well. I want a version of a bean teardrop trailer without the composite wall. I would like it to be called “Lean Bean” still have a nice 15 inches of clearance but it does not need to be built to beefy. Basically a trailer designed to keep the weight down and us national park and BLM campers happy. Basically a scamp trailer in the form of a Teardrop. @MrsMOMiles and I expect a 3 month turnaround on this request as well.😂 OK, obviously I say this jokingly but you know I really want that Lean Bean. A man can dream 💭

[@mrsMOmiles]

@@PlayingwithSticks big fan of your videos Mr. "Sticks" (I know ur name is Drew but my boys call u Mr Sticks when I have ur videos on lol) because of our space predicament we are looking at a rig called an Anti shanty. I WISH bean could make one that can fit all people inside and still keep the kitchen the way it is. Its beautiful 💖 P.s.Maybe u could do a video on the antishanty? They're also out of Utah!

[@mark-di5pf]

@@PlayingwithSticks "Lean Stock" that is terrible Drew!😀 You mean Lean Bean don't you!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@mark-di5pf Haha. Definitely going to edit that comment. Yes, posting videos at 4am my time has me a little loopy.

[@QAIRC]

Seems like a bean truck towing a bean would handle 6 :)

[@ericrinehardt9373]

Great video! Such incredible craftsmanship. (The Elon Musk comment has not aged well 😂)

[@PlayingwithSticks]

😂

[@lildebbe30]

If i could afford it I'd get me one of them

[@eliwhite4263]

How many times is this dude going to say RIGHT after every thought...

[@bobarganbright180]

Not sure how to contact you, so this is off topic. First, thank you for all your educational videos. Have you tried a mini van or have any opinions on it? For just myself, it and the open tent you use would be a good choice for me. Only downside is it sits so low to the ground. A small utility trailer could haul a kayak, atv, etc. Thank you.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

There are quite a few advantages of a van over a trailer. But there is one downfall I continue to come back to that keeps me staying with trailers. And that is I like to keep my campsite fully up when I am out adventuring. Meaning awnings open and a covered option to get from my side entry tent into my trailer without getting wet if I am not using an awning. If I am pulling a trailer I can just disconnect and take my tow vehicle with my bike or kayaks to my recreating area. With the van I have to tear a few things down that then needs to be set up again when I return. Not a big deal, but kind of wears me out over time. I have spent enough time in different forms of camping vehicles and trailers to realize I really don't like staying indoors on rainy days. And so this means I always need an awning or side entry tent to enjoy my experience. I often thought a mini van paired with a teardrop or utility trailer would be a fun option.

[@bobarganbright180]

I wonder why nobody has come out with a slide in module for an open utility trailer. Something simple, and cheap.

[@bobarganbright180]

Like a big water tank with Windows, door, and fan.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

I have never thought of that. Definitely makes sense.

[@bah5310]

Right, I think.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. I noticed that in the edit as well. There’s something about putting a camera in front of someone’s face. I’ve noticed it brings out the oddest things in us. For me the camera makes me want to use my hands to keep a cadence while talking. Haha. It’s so strange.

[@twloughlin]

Wow - a 13 minute informercial for Bean, and they didn't have to pay a cent for this kind of exposure? Lucky them!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. In the end it usually benefits both parties. There hasn't been too many videos I have made with trailer builders that have fallen flat. Meaning, I haven't made much income from Google ad revenue. The builders get a nice little promo video. The Playing with Sticks community gets a closer look at what is happening in the industry. And I get a few bucks to support our family's full time work overseas. It really is kind of a win-win. Stumbling into KZbin has really been a blessing for seeing some of our dreams become a reality.

[@jakestickelmeyer5921]

Let's look at the carbon footprint!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

In terms of large scale manufacturing I have a feeling it’s fairly small as it still is a pretty small scale business. The teardrop industry currently is putting out hundreds of trailers per year per manufacture versus thousands or millions. But, there is always room for every industry to improve on the carbon footprint even in small industries like these. “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing's going to get better. It's not.” -The Once-ler.

[@mikecon7634]

Right?

[@matthewgross6958]

Right… Right… Right… 🤣

[@ranielm2024]

I feel like a kid in a candy store.

[@frankt7521]

"Right?"

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. Even Mr. Bean himself earlier left a comment on here about his rights. I love it.

[@Daddio69er4p]

And people wonder why there so expensive 🙄

[@semorebutts3613]

a black bean in black is my choice, I just hate the white roof... why can't they just have the same finish and color all around?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Good question. And there is a good answer, SUN! The black on top is not want we want on a camper as it highly absorbs the heat of the sun.

[@semorebutts3613]

@@PlayingwithSticks oooohh

[@mtbeastfamilybiking9922]

........right?

[@PlayingwithSticks]

It’s refreshing though isn’t it to not hear “you know what I mean?” Right, you know what I’m saying?

[@mark-di5pf]

@@PlayingwithSticks I must have lost my mind! I don't think I have use 'right' that many times in my life! 😀

[@mtbeastfamilybiking9922]

@@PlayingwithSticks Right? It is, you feel me?

[@scoobydog411]

My problem is how Over Priced most are. I have a modern mobile home that’s 1000 Sf. It only cost $30,000. Most big campers are a lot more than that. Peace out.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Peace out ✌️

[@LisaKnobel]

I wish they could come up with a better design for the slider doors on the galley. I really dislike them. Somebody needs to get creative on them! Otherwise, it is the best design and built teardrop on the market. That's why mine will be done in March!

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Any thoughts on the design Lisa. I notice a lot of changes in these builds come from user or potential user feedback. Maybe just swing out cabinet doors?

[@LisaKnobel]

@@PlayingwithSticks maybe a garage door roll up. Course it would add to the price, but I think it would be totally worth it. Course I love the interior doors. I was told their thinking was that they would knock into stuff on the countertop. always a tradeoff. Sliders are functional and cheap.

[@LisaKnobel]

@@PlayingwithSticks another idea, magnetic panels that just pull off when you are parked. you really only need them for when you are traveling to keep your stuff from going everywhere. Then when you arrive pull them off and store under the sink. I might then make a bug screen to attach over it so you don't have to worry about bugs getting in your camper. It is the one weak spot for bugs to get in the cabin if someone uses the kitchen at night while someone is in the cabin.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

@@LisaKnobel We find the doors are definitely needed at our campsites. Unfortunately boondocking typically comes with its fair share of floating dust. And yes, the nigh bug thing was one of our biggest worries as well. No issues for us all summer, but we were at elevation which I think really kept those bugs down.

[@GrandmaSezSo]

Too expensive.

[@sssnipermonkey5566]

To say the “Elon musk” version of tear drops is a bold thing to say.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. I think I even said that Word for Word in the video. It really is. Oh sorry. I was referring to the man behind the teardrop not the teardrops. I think I misread your statement.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

When I was a kid it was like “the Michael Jordan of something.” Now that I am older there’s so many people dominating in so many industries and professions. Hard to pick one. And whichever one I pick I’m pretty sure it will get a rise out of someone. Haha. That’s the world we live in today.

[@bjnslc]

The Elon Musk reference in the feature image is not a positive.

[@PlayingwithSticks]

Haha. Yeah I knew people would take it both ways.

[@rightasrain7949]

Elon saving free speech. He has my respect for that. I don't know much about Teslas though.