Convert ANY Cargo Trailer into a CAMPER in 1 DAY (start-to-finish)

Turn ANY Cargo Trailer into a Camper—in Just ONE Day! Think you need weeks of work (and a ton of tools) to build a camper? In this cargo trailer camper conversion, I’ll show you how to transform a cargo trailer into a fully functional camper that can be modified to meet your ever changing needs! This no-build camper setup is perfect if you want an easy DIY camper that’s ready to hit the road fast. We’ll cover: -What a No-Build Camper is and the power behind the e track system. How to set up the camper in just one day (a complete DIY camper build from start to finish). The best gear to outfit the camper (so you’re comfortable on day one—including options for a small camper with a bathroom and kitchen!). If you’ve been searching for an easy DIY camper conversion that works for off-grid camping, toy hauler campers, or even tiny house living, this cargo trailer camper build is exactly what you need. Would you try this? Drop a comment and let me know!

Gear seen in this video:

By purchasing items through these Playing with Sticks links there is no additional cost to you. Our family gets a small kickback from amazon for any purchases you make using these affiliate links.

[PlayingwithSticks]

Your questions answered! Question #1: I purposely did not mention the model or size of this cargo trailer in the video, in the title, or in the description. But, I will mention it here. My hope is that you envision using this system on the trailer you already have. Or the trailer you are eyeing on Facebook Marketplace. That's the point of this video. Not to emulate what I am doing, but to use what you already have, or what is on your local buy and sell page. I don't think my size of trailer is necessarilyy the best, it's just what I found on my local used marketplace. With all that said, our cargo trailer is from Cargo Craft. It is an Expedition series 6x12 tandem axle. Dry weight without camping gear or water (just the e track system and the wood for the bed) is about 1, 500lbs. It is a little on the heavy side because of the tandem axle and that width and length. If you need something a bit lighter for your smaller tow vehicle I would suggest a 5x10 single axle. Question #2: Most people purchase these cargo trailers bare bones to save money. The E track is more affordable then most people expect. You can reach out to the manufacturer and ask for the proper dimension of screw or rivet. Then it is as simple as hanging a coat rack. Just screw it into the metal studs. The e track can also be installed by the manufacturer. The same goes with insulation, plywood, windows, doors, etc. Most of these companies have a plethora of add-ons, but are also willing to let the end user make the modifications on there own. I'm excited to hear how you utilize this simple system on your own trailer. The beauty is in the imagination with this one!

[OverlandOrange]

Whoa, whoa, whoa... WHERE have you been hiding THIS gem? This might be my favorite video yet.

[Heidi]

Finally! A self build that makes sense!

[smky]

I bought a 14' cargo, insulated it for my motorcycle. The whole time I was thinking.. I could live in this... Now I found this video .. perfect!

[Stoney]

I have built a few beds and learned the hard way. Can't just put a bed on the plywood, it can't breathe, traps moisture from your body, then grows insane mold, easiest fix is to use a router and cut out some gaps, it also allows the plywood to flex more and makes the bed more comfortable, great build BTW

[MyTentLife]

I got rid of my teardrop because it was to hard on my legs getting in and out at 65 years old. I have looked at these trailer but drawn myself away from them because of all the building. With this I believe is the greatest setup I’ve seen in any video about setting up a trailer. So many different uses. Thanks drew.

[reginapetty]

Oh wow! You’ve just shared the solution I didn’t know I’ve been waiting for. I’ve been stuck in design mode for a couple of years, trying to accommodate all of my constraints. Flexibility, ease, and DYI seldom come packaged together, but you’ve found it. I’m excited again. Thanks, Drew!

[makb]

Drew, this is probably one of the best videos that you put out. It speaks to so many of us, especially these days when prices are up the roof and most people are strapped for cash. Versatility and flexibility of this set up is just so simple and appealing, especially for those of us who already own enclosed trailers. If I may add another item is manual hand pump manual 2 gallon water (gardening) bottle with sprayer that we use for rinsing, and shower. We fill it up as need it with mixed hot water that we boil. We use it all the time, even in garage. Thank you so much.

[mygypsyadventure]

This is one of the best videos I have seen about a self build. I am a senior and was looking forward to retiring next year but with all of the fear over what’s happening I am petrified about what my senior years would look like. I have watched CheapRV Living for years but I think what you put together is brilliant and it’s something someone like me who isnt a carpenter can put together. Plus I like how you can change the confirmation to suit your needs. I think this is gonna be one of your most viewed videos you have ever posted! Thank you!!!!

[rivermom]

63 yr old female who has been watching build videos for more than 5 yrs. So far, your video is by far the easiest, most efficient build. The fact that it can accommodate more than one person is great. Thanks for sharing all your great ideas! ❤

[howardhoward]

Simply Brilliant!!
Thank you for this.
I'm 61 in a rehab recovering from a stroke. I am trying to figure out the rest of my life, especially a living situation.
You have no idea how much you have helped.

[gsetty]

This is the best, simplest, direct to-the-point diy camper/toy trailer video I've ever seen! I thought I saw it all until i saw all the different e-track configurations! Completely opened my multifunctional brainstorming to another level! Thanks for the video!

[josepsamarrafarre]

I've been following this type of content for many years but I've rarely been so impressed. Totally 11 out of 10 for me!

[firsttimecaller]

Wow. Guess E-Track is the solution I didn't realize I've been looking for all these years. And it's crazy-cheap to go all out with it. Thank you for sharing this bare bones build. Don't mean to sound too dramatic but this just changed my life. I say this as a hardcore nomadic life and camping nerd who has seen it all and done it all.

[vicsaul]

I've done 4 different size Van conversations, getting smaller and lighter everytime, this is the most versatile minimalist camper design I've ever seen, congratulations this is phenomenal, total game changer.you gonna have Millions of followers 👏🙌😀

[jaycarl]

Gets 110F here in Cali, an air conditioner with 800 watts minimum of solar is a must in the summer. The E-track idea is a very good one.

[TheLukaszpg]

Your best video yet. No fluff, just quality content. Every second of it.

[EdwardRoss-cr]

This is the most practical way to be off grid, people assume there's a garage full of expensive tools to bust out a full on woodworking project. I don't like table saws, I like camping. I don't like to worry about breaking tools, I like nature.

[altawalker]

I want to do this as my she shed/art studio, with the option to switch to guest room etc. Love it.

[ongoingawakening]

Holy cow. You just totally changed my build. I'm converting a Ford van into a sometimes stealth-camper, sometimes work van. This is perfect. Thank you so much. Now I can do everything I want , and more