What’s a Teardrop RV?

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Teardrop campers are small, lightweight trailers ideal for one or two campers. They first appeared in the US in the 1930s and became popular after WWII. Their popularity declined in the 1950s but has resurged in the 21st century due to concerns about gas prices and consumerism. Little Guy Worldwide is the largest manufacturer of teardrop RVs, and they offer many add-ons and optional accessories. Teardrop RVs can be towed by virtually any road legal vehicle and are a low-cost option for camping.

A teardrop camper is a small, teardrop-shaped towable camper that has been flipped on its side. Lightweight and compact, a teardrop camper is the ideal option for one or two campers. Two can sleep in relative comfort in even the smallest models, and because they’re lightweight, they use far less gas than their full-size counterparts.
First appearing in the United States in the 1930s, the popularity of small teardrop campers increased significantly after World War II. Returning soldiers looking for cheap vacation alternatives have embraced the concept. Road systems had improved, special vehicles were not needed to tow the teardrop campers, and the trailers themselves were modestly priced. At the time, many drop trailers were made from reclaimed wartime materials like jeep wheels and airplane wings. The use of airplane wings from decommissioned WWII bombers in the construction of the exterior gave rise to the iconic, high-gloss teardrop camper exterior.

As the economic recovery took hold in the United States in the 1950s, the popularity of the small teardrop camper waned. With more money to spend on non-essential items, people interested in outdoor vacations looked for bigger, more luxurious RVs. Manufacturers responded to consumer demands, and by the mid-1970s, there were only a few drop trailer manufacturers left.

As gas prices and overt consumerism have become major concerns in the first decade of the 21st century, the teardrop RV has experienced a resurgence in popularity. There are several manufacturers, but the greatest interest lies in the restoration of vintage post-WWII teardrop campers and the construction of modern bespoke models. Although the small dimensions and the classic teardrop shape of the motorhomes are maintained in the bespoke models, the interior is quite modern. Some custom models are AC-powered and have scaled-down versions of modern kitchen appliances installed, as well as rich woods used for the interior panels and cabinetry.

Little Guy Worldwide, headquartered in Canton, Ohio, is the largest manufacturer and distribution outlet of teardrop RVs in the world. Along with their mass production teardrop trailers, Little Guy Worldwide also offers many add-ons and optional accessories for the teardrop camper enthusiast. Two of their popular options are the side-mounted gas grills with beverage dispensers, which are popular with “tailgate” attendees of sporting events, and the camouflaged exteriors for hunters.

Unlike many full-sized RVs, a teardrop RV can be towed with virtually any road legal vehicle. Many models are also small and light enough to be towed by a motorcycle. With the worries of high fuel prices and maintenance fees associated with towing a full-sized RV or driving an RV, a teardrop RV can be a fun, low-cost option for singles and couples to fully enjoy the camping experience.




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