If you have limited time and money, one way to get a campervan is to simply build one. Well, that's exactly what the folks at Builders Blueprint have done, sharing a step-by-step process for building your own travel trailer.
I recently came across a little video on a YouTube channel called Builders Blueprint (BB). This is where I caught my eye on one of their recently uploaded projects, a DIY micro camper that was born out of just a garage. Best of all, the channel host even shares the steps he went through to bring this puppy back to life.
Now, the great thing about all of this is that by following the video and using a little brainpower and effort, you can recreate the unit we're looking at here today. Along the way, you can customize it to suit your adventure needs. Let's take a look at what it takes to build your own travel trailer. It looks great, has the basic features you need, and weighs just 1,500 on the CAT scale. lbs. (680kg).
As you begin working on this project, it is important to note a few things. First, the total construction price of the project could not be determined, and second, some of it is prefabricated. Not much, just the chassis, suspension and wheels.
Photo: Builders Blueprints / YouTube Screenshot
Once the chassis and suspension are set up, including the sway bars, it's time to bring this pup to life using some good old wood. The first layer is just a subfloor completed with 1/2-inch plywood panels, painted on the back for protection.
Once this layer is in place, create a small frame for added strength and insulation and place the final plywood panel on top. The floor preparation is complete. Obviously, there are a few extra steps to the whole process, but I think you can understand the fact that you have to measure twice, cut once, drill holes, and glue components together.
But it's the next stage that will give this unit real shape. I'm not going to go into the details of measuring, cutting, sanding, gluing, etc., but once the host finishes installing the left and right walls, the rest of the frame, including the roof trusses, is completed. With more plywood on the interior panels, this mobile home begins to take its final shape.
Photo: Builders Blueprints / YouTube Screenshot
Now that we have a solid foundation to work from, let's show you how this worker builds the roof. If you have experience in creating such machines before, please feel free to comment on how the lighting is completed.
The most important electrical systems begin to take shape at this stage. One thing to mention about the electrical system is that if you don't know how to properly set it up, be sure to ask for professional assistance or installation. You can imagine what happens if you get this wrong.
But the great thing about building your own campervan is that you can tailor this setup to your own needs at a fraction of the price sold by campervan manufacturers. The one here comes with two batteries, a solar power controller, an inverter, and even a solar panel. It has everything you want when you're out in nature or at a trailer park.
Photo: Builders Blueprints / YouTube Screenshot
Install the electricity, pull the wires, and the rest of the shell comes to life. First you need to seal the seams and screw holes. You can use boat sealants such as BB's Host or other familiar products. But the problem arises at the next stage.
Due to the size and shape of this micro camper, we've added a layer of fiberglass throughout the exterior of this pup for added strength and protection. This is also a tricky stage, so read up on what to do, including protecting yourself in the process. Oh, and if you plan on doing the same steps that BB is doing, you'll need to do this again for the aft galley and his hatch as well.
What I loved about BB's work is that he thoroughly exposes all the steps required to build this beast. This is one of the reasons why this video has already been viewed over 788,000 times. Because of this, he has a pretty solid grasp on how to bring his charming galley to life, the cabinetry inside, and even what AC settings he uses. Eco Flow Wave 2.
Photo: Builders Blueprints / YouTube Screenshot
Remaining steps include finishing touches such as a layer of Raptor truck liner coating. This is a powerful DIY camper solution for sealing and protecting your unit. Installation of side doors, waterproofing of electrical wires, top vents, etc., installation of jerry can holders, solar panels. Don't forget the water tank, sink and faucet, and pump in the galley. Safety lights and brake lights were installed, and the final touch was a Sennheiser soundbar in the galley, or perhaps wider wheels?
In my opinion, this product is now ready for long weekend trips and looks great. But it's obviously not perfect. So I ask, what would you have done differently in the process? Please check out the video below and comment.