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Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion – Step-By-Step DIY Guide

• Last Updated: March 13, 2024
• 5 minutes read

Converting a cargo trailer into a camper offers a flexible and budget-friendly way to hit the road. With some DIY skills and planning, you can customize an enclosed trailer into a cozy home on wheels suited to your needs. We created this comprehensive guide that covers everything about cargo trailer camper conversions.

IN THIS ARTICLE

• Benefits include lower cost, lighter weight, custom layouts, and toy hauling capabilities compared to traditional RVs.
• Costs range from $5,000-$15,000 depending on size, components and DIY vs professional conversion.
• Critical steps include checking the frame, tires, bearings and suspension before starting. Upgrade as needed.

What is Cargo Trailer to Camper Conversion

In short, cargo trailer conversion involves transforming an empty enclosed trailer into a customized camper by adding sleeping quarters, kitchenettes, lighting, plumbing, etc. The blank canvas allows RVers to tailor it to their exact travel style.

Benefits of Cargo Trailer to Camper Conversion

Converted cargo trailers offer many advantages over traditional RVs. Enclosed cargo trailer camper conversions allow RVers to fully customize the interior layout to match their exact needs and travel style.

• Lower Cost: Cargo trailers are cheaper to buy, used or new. DIY conversion also costs less than buying a finished camper. Savings allow more features.
• Lighter Weight: Enclosed trailers weigh less than comparably sized travel trailers, making them easier to tow with better fuel efficiency.
• Custom Layouts: The blank canvas allows the creation of specific living spaces to match your needs instead of a generic floor plan.
• Toy Hauling Capabilities: Many utilize cargo trailers with ramp doors to transport motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, etc. Portable loading ramps are another option.
• More Headroom: Trailers offer ample height for comfortable standing and moving around.

Costs of Cargo Trailer to Camper Conversion

Expect to spend $5,000-15,000 converting a cargo trailer into a camper. Used trailers can cost $1,000-$2,500, while new 6×12 trailers run $4,000-$5,000. Self-converted vs professionally built campers fall on the lower and higher ends of the budget range, respectively.

Here’s a breakdown of costs for common trailer sizes:

DIY Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion

Cargo trailer camper conversion kits.

Essential materials and tools needed include:

• Lumber: 2x4s and plywood to frame walls and build cabinets. Recommend moisture-resistant pine boards.
• Insulation: Fiberglass batts or rigid foam boards to insulate walls and ceilings.
• Fasteners: Wood screws, bolts, and adhesive for securing camper components.
• Protective Gear: Respirators, ear/eye protection for cutting materials during the build-out.
• Common Tools: Hammer, drill, saws, levels, tape measure and other workshop tools.
• Plumbing Parts: PVC pipes, toilet, sinks, pump, and water heater for freshwater system.
• Electrical: High-capacity 12V batteries, wiring, monitor, shore power inlet for power system.
• Appliances: RV / boat refrigerators, stove, microwave etc., for the kitchen area.
• Environmentally Friendly: Use zero-VOC paints/ finishes and sustainable furnishings when possible.

Once you have all the materials, follow these key steps:

Step 1: choose your trailer.

Inspect the frame, suspension, tires and bearings if buying a used enclosed trailer. Upgrade any worn components to handle future camper weight. Optimal condition ensures a stable base.

Step 2: Design the Layout

Map out your interior floor plan starting with sleeping areas, then kitchen, bathroom, furnishings etc. Measure appliances and components to scale to optimize the available space.

Step 3: Build the Framework

Frame interior walls and ceilings with wood or metal to create designated living areas and anchor cabinetry and amenities.

Step 4: Add Insulation

Install insulation boards on walls/ceiling for thermal and acoustic insulation to keep interiors comfortable.

Step 5: Install Electricity

Choose solar , battery or generator systems to power lighting, appliances, charging and other electrical setups.

Step 6: Include Plumbing

Add plumbing for sink drainage, portable toilet drainage, water heating and delivery to amenities.

Step 7: Add Bathroom Amenities

Install portable toilets , outdoor showers, or full bathroom fixtures per your preference.

Step 8: Build the Kitchen

Attach stove tops & ovens , refrigerators, microwaves etc. Tailor the cooking equipment to your cooking needs.

Step 9: Add Furnishings

Include Murphy beds, sleeper sofas , customized bench seating, tables etc. for ample sleeping capacity and seating.

Step 10: Install Storage Solutions

Add secure cabinets, drawers, and shelving for clothing, gear, tools, pantry items etc.

Step 11: Include Entertainment Systems

Hook up TVs, speakers, antennas etc., for info and entertainment on the road.

Step 12: Attach Finishing Touches

Install flooring, upholstery, lighting fixtures, decor and other final touches to complete your custom camper build!

6 x 12 Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion Ideas

Check out this image below, showing real-world examples of stylish and livable 6×12 cargo trailer camper conversions to spark your own ideas.

Image from: https://forum.expeditionportal.com/

5X8 Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion Ideas

Image from: Pinterest

Cargo Trailer Conversion to Camper With Bedrooms

This example displays cargo trailer conversions featuring bedroom spaces, bunk beds, queen-size mattresses and other sleeping accommodations.

Image from: homewithkrissy.com

Image from: reddit.com

Cargo Trailer Conversion to Camper Floor Plan

This image provides sample layout blueprints for organizing kitchens, bathrooms, sleeping areas, etc., in DIY camper trailer builds.

Image from: tusker-international.com

Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion For Sale

You can buy professionally converted campers ready for the road on RV Trader, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and directly from conversion companies. Expect higher cost than DIY, but also quicker time to travel. Carefully inspect condition and test systems if purchasing a used converted trailer.

What size cargo trailer is best for camper conversion?

6×12 enclosed trailers offer abundant space for kitchens, bathrooms, sleeping capacity, storage, etc. But 5×8 trailers maximize limited square footage through well-planned layouts. The optimal size depends on your budget, tow vehicle capacity, and living needs on the road.

Can you convert a box trailer into a camper?

Yes, box trailers offer an adaptable and durable platform for camper conversions similar to enclosed cargo trailers. The boxy construction provides blank walls for flexible layouts. Trailer width and height allow comfortable living spaces. Ensure the frame, suspension, and components can handle conversion weight.

Some key guidelines for planning the layout:

• Focus on functionality using the limited space efficiently.
• Create defined living zones with walls/dividers for kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc.
• Use lighter components to maximize available cargo capacity after conversion.
• Insulate walls, floor and ceiling to control interior temperatures.
• Build custom cabinetry and amenities instead of bulky prefab furnishings.
• Use durable, waterproof materials and finishes that withstand rugged travel.
• Install electrical, lighting and plumbing systems for off-grid functionality.
• Work systematically from the framework outwards to transform the empty box into a fully outfitted rolling cabin!

With careful planning and execution, you can convert an affordable cargo trailer or box trailer into a custom camper tailored to your travel lifestyle at a fraction of typical RV prices.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Hello! This is neat!!! My husband and I are looking to convert his cargo trailer to a fun weekend trailer. Can you recommended any places in South Carolina that can do the work?

Alec L Kirklen

Thanks for the video Brian. Nice job! I’m about to start me one. Been thinking about it for a while. Great pointers brother. Y’all be safe.

Murray MacDonald

Thank you for the information. I just recently completed a 6×10 conversion. Now I can justify the cost to my wife 😜

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14 Inspiring Cargo Trailer Conversions & 10 Reasons Why You Will Want To Build One

Making a camper out of a cargo trailer is a great way to get into the RV lifestyle without breaking the bank. There are DIY RV projects to suit almost any budget.

But it’s not only about saving money.

10 Reasons to Build Your Own Cargo Trailer RV Conversion

There are many benefits from building your own camper trailer compared to purchasing a travel trailer.

Before we get to look at great examples of cargo trailer campers let’s have a look at the benefits of a cargo trailer conversion vs a travel trailer RV.

Or you can skip ahead if you are already sold on the idea.

1. It Will Be a Lot Cheaper

You can buy a brand new 7 x 12 enclosed cargo trailer for under $3000. For comparison travel trailers start at an absolute minimum of $10000 and can go above $60000.

Even an old used travel trailer will probably cost more than a brand new high-quality box trailer that you can remodel to your exact design.

Travel RV’s are over-engineered because fancy features sell. But they often include expensive solutions for simple problems.

Old used travel trailers can often have problems i.e. water damage, dry rot, leaking tanks, problems with appliances. The ongoing cost of maintaining a travel trailer RV will be significantly higher than a conversion box trailer.

2. You Can Insulate and Spec Out to a Higher Standard

Often professional travel trailer manufacturers build to lesser standards than you might have. They anticipate you will use the travel trailer in an RV Park that will have electric hookup.

When you have electric hookup you can run an electric heater. So not all travel trailers have the best insulation.

They don’t think you’ll need it and also it’s a way for manufacturers to cut costs on something this is hidden inside the walls.

If you are building a camper trailer from scratch you can specify the level of insulation you want.

Cargo trailers have straight walls and are easy to insulate. You can put 2 or 3 inches of foam on the walls and 6 inches on the roof. Your super-insulated trailer conversion will be warm inside without expensive heating systems.

Also, with the cargo trailer RV electrical system, you can build something much better than what comes in commercial caravans.

With your own conversion, you can install a high-spec solar system so you can go off-grid, explore more remote places, and save money on RV parks.

3. It Will Be More Durable & Last Longer

Aluminum cargo trailers are built to last. They are simple, and even if they do need a repair it will be cheap. They won’t get scrapes from tree branches.

If you do the conversion yourself you will learn how everything works. This will mean you are confident and able to fix any small issues without paying money for expensive repairs.

You can every buy a cargo trailer with a 1 piece aluminum roof that is never going to leak and won’t need resurfacing.

You can expect to use a good cargo trailer for decades.

4. It Will Weigh Less & You’ll Get a Better Gas Mileage

You’ll get more miles for your buck with a lighter travel trailer. You’ll also cause less stress on your tow vehicle.

Even a small cargo trailer can make a great home with clever planning.

The whole point of a camper trailer is to get some freedom. But if going on vacation costs crazy amounts on gas then it starts to be very restrictive.

Getting better gas mileage will mean you can finally take those long-distance road trips you’ve been dreaming about.

5. You’ll Be Able to Take it Off-road

In a narrower and shorter mini cargo trailer camper, you will be able to get off the beaten track more easily.

Even a large box trailer can have a greater ground clearance to allow you to go places you can’t with a travel trailer.

This will open up a whole new world of low-budget camping possibilities.

6. It’s a Blank Slate

Commercial travel trailers often come with features that you don’t need.

Black tanks are a good example. Why would you want to drive around with tank full of poop in your RV? And force yourself to need to find an RV dump station to empty it.

In Europe all RV’s use a cassette toilet system. You remove the cassette every week or 2 and empty it in any restroom toilet. You can put the whole cassette inside a backpack so nobody even sees what you are doing.

You can buy a porta potty for under $100. Simple, cheap and effective.

Alternatively, you could install a composting toilet in your box trailer camper.

There are better ways to do things that the system that has evolved using black tanks, sewer hoses and dump stations.

Your cargo trailer conversion RV can have the exact setup that you want and utility trailers come in all shapes and sizes.

Commercial RVs also have a tendency to use fabrics and materials that are not what you would have in your own home.

Cheap laminate wood is used frequently in travel trailers when you build your own cargo trailer camper you can have the furniture that you want.

Why let someone else choose the furniture and the decor of your own home? That’s what happens with a typical RV travel trailer. While there are some beautiful looking high-end commercial trailers they tend to have a high-end price too!

With a cargo trailer conversion, you have the opportunity to have it looking exactly how you want it. You can go create a bare-bones budget cabin or a luxury suite depending on your budget and taste.

You can even use the same wallpaper that you have at home!

7. Cargo Trailers Hold Their Value & You’ll Add Value By Converting

Rather than losing money buying a travel trailer, you’ll add value by doing your own cargo trailer conversion.

A lot of people are scared away from doing simple tasks like wiring up a 12v solar electric system. But with a few basic DIY skills and youtube to help you’ll transform an empty shell into a livable, off-grid cabin on wheels.

And rather than depreciating your cargo trailer will go up in value.

Also even empty used cargo trailers seem to hold their value well. That’s why it’s recommended to buy a new one to use for your conversion project. There is not much money to be saved by buying second-hand.

8. You’ll Save Money On RV Repairs

Once you how to build a travel trailer from scratch, you’ll know how to repair everything. This will save you so much money and give you confidence when using your trailer for camping vacations.

Keep some basic tools and spare parts in the RV and if something goes wrong during a camping trip you’ll have the skills and the knowledge to fix it yourself.

9. A Cargo Trailer Tiny House Is More Stealthy

You can park places in a cargo trailer that when you would be moved on in a travel trailer.

Most cargo trailer conversion RVs look like pretty much like plain cargo trailers on the outside so they attract less attention. True it’s not as stealthy as a plain camper van conversion but you’ll still go under the radar more often than you would with a large RV trailer.

10. Your Box Trailer Can Be Useful For Many Purposes

This last point is a biggie.

A conversion can be a much more all-purpose trailer than a regular travel trailer.

If you design it right you can still use it for transporting cargo when it’s not in RV mode.

If you have any particular sports or hobbies you can design your conversion cargo trailer to fit your lifestyle and use it as a toy hauler.

You might park a quad bike in the middle of your “living room” while touring and park it outside while in RV mode.

You could use your cargo trailer for going kayaking at the weekends and leave the kayaks at home when you go on a summer vacation.

For people that love the outdoors those big barn doors or ramp door that open fully really bring the outside in. A ramp door can make a perfect deck area.

You just don’t have these types of options with a standard travel trailer.

Cargo trailers are the most versatile RV shell that you can build upon and can be adapted to many uses.

Utility trailers give you all the versatility of a van conversion without the need to trade your vehicle for a van or to own 2 vehicles.

When you are back at home base you can park it in the backyard and it’ll make a great little home office. Or man-shed to escape to.

The variety of options for cargo trailer conversions are endless.

This video by Extreme Budget really outlines why converting your own cargo trailer to a camper is a great idea:

14 Inspiring Homemade Camper Trailer Ideas

To learn how to turn a cargo trailer into a camper look no further than these inspiring examples.

Once you’ve seen what these guys have achieved you’ll be confident that you can build something similar.

This page is a big one and a great reference so you might want to bookmark it or pin it to Pinterest so you don’t forget it.

Make & Do’s 4 Week Utility Trailer Camper Conversion

Make & Do started with a 16-foot travel trailer and stripped off the wood inside.

They used sheet metal and caulk to fix any holes between the walls and the floor.

They then sealed the floor with waterproof paint.

They used sheet insulation on the ceiling and filled the gaps with expanding foam.

And screwed boarding into the metal beams.

And painted the ceiling using a roller brush.

They insulated the floor and included wooden struts for support and again the gaps were filled with expanding foam.

On top of that went a half-inch wafer board and some laminate flooring.

The walls were then insulated, and covered with bead-board. It was starting to take shape and work began on the stud walls.

They cut a hole in the roof for a vent.

And make it watertight using caulking.

The outdoor kitchen was a great way to insulate the barn-door wall. I will be perfect for those outdoor cook-ups!

On the other side of the kitchen 2 beds were installed as well as steps to climb to the top bunk.

And a bathroom was installed in the v-nose section of the trailer.

The end result is a great camper that would suit an outdoors lifestyle.

I strongly recommend that you watch the video above. There was an interesting comment from a tech at an RV dealership who thought this build was better than an $80k camper.

Make & Do built the completed the job for under $9000 including the price of the trailer. And they did it all in 4 weeks!

Bret’s 6 x 12 Enclosed Single Axle Trailer Camper

Brett added is own graphics on the outside that he got for $85 from eBay.

He also added solar-powered motion-activated security lights on the outside. They can be switched off when driving but provide a little extra security. It’s a neat touch that you might want to consider for your own cargo trailer camper.

On the inside, he attached a wastebasket to the inside of the door. This means the bag can be emptied standing outside with the door open. I imagine that’s handy in case of any burst bags!

The mini-kitchen is equipped with microwave, a Keurig coffee maker and a refrigerator.

Brett mounted a 32-inch tv on the inside of the back door. This means that it can be watched inside or even while sitting outside with a campfire going.

The bed is a futon that can be removed so the trailer can still be used to haul cargo if required.

There’s porta potty in the closet too!

It’s like a little apartment on wheels. Brett estimates that he spent between $4500 to $5000 doing the remodeling and he insured the finished project with State Farm Insurance for $8000.

RedDotTactical556’s Stealth Travel Trailer RV

RedForTactical556 bought this cargo trailer new for just under $3000. On the outside, it looks just like a plain white enclosed box trailer.

He made sure to get a v-nose design to improve gas mileage. His past experience of towing a flat 4×8 box trailer was like towing a parachute behind the truck so he wanted something more streamlined.

He painted the underneath of the trailer to protect the wood. And painted the roof with silver seal to prolong the life of the rood.

He then added a window to the door that he bought on eBay for just $8.

To save space on the inside he installed a hidden shower head on the outside so he could shower outside. He also added a water fill point and a tap to drain the grey water.

On the inside he built a worktop with a sink into the v-nose area and added a microwave oven.

He saved on weight by having curtains under the worktop rather than doors.

Under the sink, he installed a 42-gallon water tank.

While it doesn’t yet have a solar system everything is powered by a portable generator.

It makes a nice little bug-out vehicle that won’t attract attention and comes at a fraction of the cost of a travel trailer.

John’s Homemade Camper Trailer

John was gifted this old military trailer by a close buddy.

It didn’t look like much but John had an inspired plan to convert it to a camper. He loved camping but was tired of putting a tent up and down. This trailer could be the solution.

He repaired some rusty patches, stripped it down, and painted it desert tan.

And built a mini wood cabin

He added an entrance by cutting down an old screen door. And a little window too!

And check out that Pilot Rock grill hooked onto the back.

The grill swings out and there is a fold-out table.

And that means you can get access into the trailer using the customized aluminum steps.

John included an awning to protect him from the sun when he goes boondocking.

The high ground clearance lets this trailer go anywhere!

And the all-terrain tires provide extra traction.

He gets it level by using a farm jack.

The wind-deflector lifts up to reveal there’s another window at the front too.

John’s homemade travel trailer really is the gift that keeps on giving as he now uses it for many camping trips that you can check out on his Alive Outside YouTube channel .

Reid & Kae’s 20 x 8 Cargo Trailer Tiny House

Reid & Kae built their own tiny home inside a utility trailer. You can read about their project in full at Operation: Off The Grid .

They didn’t want to compromise on storage space so they made sure they had plenty of closet space for their clothes.

A Sun-Mar composting toilet was installed that uses no water or electricity and can go more than 3 months without needing to be emptied.

Their kitchen has a full-size cooker!

And a microwave!

Many people go through a process of getting rid of possessions when they move into a tiny house. Reid and Kae didn’t want to do that. Instead, they focused on finding a way to fit all their stuff into their tiny home trailer. Like this large bookshelf.

Storage space wasn’t something they would ever need to worry about. Especially when around a quarter of the trailer was given over to the overflow storage space… the garage!!

It just goes to show. There are as many different ways to build out a camper trailer as there are different types of people in the world.

There is no best way to do it. Only the best way to suit you!

If you want to build a large cargo trailer conversion then check out Reid and Kae’s layout plans below and be sure to visit their awesome website for much more detail.

Mark’s 16-Foot Camper Trailer With Outdoor Kitchen

Mark converted a beautiful 16 foot cargo trailer into this camper. The trailer is all aluminum so rust will never be a problem.

He added a window to the door and a window on the side.

Scissor jacks help to stabilize the trailer.

Mark went for an outdoor kitchen and in a clever move welded the back door upside down so that it would form an awning.

Inside there is a cozy bedroom.

There’s also a desk to get some work done or watch a movie.

The v-nose area of the trailer contains a handy storage cupboard.

The full family goes on camping trips. Mom and Dad have the luxury of a full-size bed and the kids prefer the adventure of sleeping outside in tents.

All in all, it’s a great example of what you can achieve with a camper trailer project. As Mark says on his YouTube channel . It may not be the perfect design for everyone but it works for him and his family.

Chasin’ Simplicity’s 8 x 5 Mini Box Trailer Camper

This mini box is a great example of a lower budget no-nonsense cargo trailer project.

No space is wasted. It has a storage box built onto the frame.

There’s a drop-down table on the inside of the rear door.

The main job of a camper is to give you somewhere comfortable and safe to sleep while on the road. It’s clear that this mini RV has its priorities right! Most of the space inside is taken up by a large comfy looking bed.

Lighting is kept simple with magnetic battery operated lamps.

And there is a roof vent to make sure it doesn’t become too stuffy.

Keeping it simple is what the YouTube channel is all about and this camper is fit for purpose!

Mark & DeAnna’s Enclosed Trailer Camper Conversion With A Bathroom & Shower!

From plain and simple to the luxury you can build a trailer conversion project just the way you want it.

On the outside this cargo trailer doesn’t stand out too much. But wait until you see the inside!

They have a bathroom with porcelain potty and a hot water heater.

And a shower!

The mini-kitchen has a stove, a fridge, and a stainless steel sink.

But why stop at 1 fridge if you can have 2!

The rear has a bedroom/dining/D-shaped lounge area that’s a great use of space. You’ve got to love those large windows.

The materials for the build cost just $6200. Amazing when the result is a beautiful home that you could live in full-time if you wanted to.

If you like this style you can get more information on this camper over at Mark and DeAnna’s YouTube channel . They are a really fun couple and their tour is very informative.

Brian Rogers 8 x 16 Cargo Trailer To Camper Conversion

This build is one of the best out there. Brian Rogers is a skilled craftsman and cabinet maker. He’s also built-in many clever hacks to make his RV life better.

Brian started with an empty enclosed cargo trailer:

Firstly, by simply adding larger tires Brian increased the clearance. This means he can go places a travel trailer couldn’t.

He cut holes in the side and welded a steel frame to support the windows.

The floor covering was just sheet vinyl glued down. Brian also made use of floor space to create a clever floor storage area.

The blue-stained beetle kill pine on the walls is very distinctive and looks great. You never see that creativity in a commercial travel trailer.

In an RV it’s the small things that help make your life easier. These folding hooks from IKEA are fantastic. When you are in an RV keeping things secure when you drive is a challenge.

The folding hooks look nice and clean and out the way when not in use. But when you come from the store with the shopping bag you’ll have a temporary place to hang your bag before you get back to your camp.

His drop-down ceiling bed is one of the best RV beds that I have ever seen period . Again it’s gas shocks that push the bed up out the way when it’s not being used.

In the ceiling, there is a fantastic vent fan to help keep the trailer fresh and cool.

There are 2 sofa beds that flip up against the wall so that the trailer can still be used to transport cargo.

His Bluetooth stereo adds a touch of luxury and also the folding drop-down ceiling mount for the tv a great way to use space.

Brian added a 13000 btu air conditioner in the ceiling which cools the small area of travel trailer effectively.

He’s got a separate toilet and shower room too.

His kitchen area has a fridge, microwave, stovetop, sink and even a spice rack built into the wall. The poplar and alder cabinets are stunning.

The end result is a cargo trailer conversion that is equal to a luxury travel trailer but built for a much smaller budget.

Brian really went to town with this build though using quality materials throughout.

All in, he spent around $13500 including the trailer. By using his own skills and labor he was able to create a luxury travel trailer by converting his 2006 box trailer.

Bo’s 6 x 14 DIY Trailer Camper Cabin On Wheels

Bo went for a cantina in the rear to facilitate outdoors cooking. When you see where he’s parking up you can understand why.

He travels with an instant sun-shade to help make the best use of the outdoors.

But he also built a mini kitchen inside too.

And a bed too of course.

It’s perfect for two people and has everything required for a comfortable camping trip.

7×14 Cargo Trailer Toy Hauler Conversion By RetiredGuy Adventures

This enclosed trailer RV has a fantastic awning on the side.

Inside has been insulated and an AC system added as well as some cabinets.

The bed has still to be added but will fold down from the wall.

This means that the trailer can still be used to haul cargo. And in this case, it will be used as a toy hauler because RetiredGuy’s bike is going to go with him on camping trips.

It makes sense. If you are going to haul a bike in a trailer why not have an insulated camper trailer that you can camp and sleep in too.

Utahiker’s 6×12 Cargo Trailer Conversion

On the outside it looks just like a regular 6 x 12 enclosed utility trailer. Only the small window on the side hints that it’s got more to offer.

On the inside, there is more to discover.

The ceiling is clad with pine planks.

There is a Millard brand sofa mattress and the walls are clad with auto carpet.

There is also a fold-down bed so the RV can sleep 3 people.

A stainless steel bowl with a hole cut in the bottom makes for an awesome sink.

And the v-nose of the cargo trailer has enough room for a closet restroom.

And there is an AC unit in the restroom that cools the entire cargo trailer.

Utahiker built a low-cost travel trailer that you can use more than just a few days a year for a trip to an RV park.

It’s still a functioning trailer that you can use to haul cargo and it was built for a fraction of the cost of a travel trailer RV.

Simplebuild’s 20 x 7 Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion

If you will be spending a lot of time in your camper then why not get a big one as Simplebuild did.

The manufacturer added the windows.

Two propane bottles were mounted to the frame using a propane rack.

An awning make a great addition to any RV.

Inside things were kept simple but functional.

But it’s got everything that you need…

Simplebuild give a lot of good tips about sealing the floor but so if you want to hear them go check out their video here .

It’s a great example of what you can fit inside a conversion if you are prepared to go for a larger utility trailer.

Fred & Ev’s Horse Trailer Camper Conversion

Fred & Ev converted this 1970 horse trailer into a wonderful camper.

When they found it it was in pretty bad shape.

It’s now a very romantic, cozy little camper.

The large doors at the back open up to get close to nature.

Overall it’s a successful restoration project and how nice it much be to wake up to different views every morning!

Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion Floor Plans

You will want to design your own cargo trailer conversion floor plan.

But these floor plans will give you a good place to start from.

Cargo Trailer Conversion Kits

Time is money. And while building your own camper trailer from scratch is the cheapest way it’s not the most time-efficient.

If you want to save time check out these links to learn how to build a camper trailer using a conversion kit.

A cargo trailer conversion is a great way to build your own DIY RV. Modern technology means you can have a fully off-grid home contained in a box with electric power and high-speed internet access.

There are pros and cons of course. Using a tow vehicle means it’s harder to park than a van or smaller RV.

But it also means you can unhitch and use your vehicle without towing your home.

If you’d like to get into RV camping but don’t want to buy a 2nd vehicle then towing a trailer is a great option.

But you do need a vehicle with enough power to pull a trailer.

A cargo trailer conversion will get you away from costly RV parks and out into the great outdoors.

It’s more like tent camping but without the discomfort of sleeping in a tent. You can build in as much luxury as you can imagine or require.

Be warned. You might start to wonder if you still need your house or apartment! This type of outdoor adventure travel can be addictive.

Further Reading

https://insteading.com/blog/engineer-turns-trailer-into-diy-camper/

6 thoughts on “14 Inspiring Cargo Trailer Conversions & 10 Reasons Why You Will Want To Build One”

AWESOME website and great ideas for my wife and myself on building our own conversion. Thank you.

I was a homeless vet. living out of my jeep, tent and then I go the Ideal to make a red neck camper out of a 6×12 enclosed cargo trailer. My 4 door jeep is my tow vehicle. I lived out of my 6×12 camper full time for 6 months in S.D.

Hi Craig, I will be doing about the same thing, only with a 2 door (2017) Wrangler with a few modifications. Do you have any major issues with the short wheelbase? I will be using a 7×12 converted cargo. Thanks. Ron-

Can you turn a Construction trailer into a livestock trailer? I inherited my Dad’s construction trailer. It has a side door and ramp door in the back.

Thanks in advance

Has anyone built their own enclosure, whether hard or soft sided, for the ramp end on a cargo trailer? If seen some quick pics but no videos on how they did it.

Great site can’t wait to get started.

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The Best 7×16 Cargo Trailer Conversion Camper You’ve Ever Seen

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Amazing Cargo Trailer Conversion

Looking to build a one of a kind camper? A cargo trailer conversion might be the perfect solution! In 2018, my husband and I converted a 7×16 cargo trailer into a tiny home on wheels. And for the last 3 years, we lived and traveled in it full time! But back then, there were not many resources for this kind of DIY project.

More recently, there has been a growing trend of people converting cargo trailers into their own custom camper. And I can attest, this type of conversion offers a number of advantages.

First, it can be significantly cheaper than buying an RV. Second, it can be much easier to tow and maneuver than a larger RV or trailer. And third, it allows you to custom design your own space to perfectly suit your needs. Although you’ll need to get creative with the layout to make the most of the limited space. But if you’re up for the challenge, a cargo trailer conversion can be an rewarding experience !

So if you’re looking for an affordable way to travel in style, a cargo trailer camper conversion might be the perfect project for you! Keep reading to see how we transformed a 7×16 enclosed cargo trailer into our tiny home on wheels . 

For a more detailed step-by-step guide to converting your own cargo trailer into a camper, check out our guide on How to Convert a Cargo Trailer into a Camper to help you purchase an enclosed trailer with confidence, design the right floor plan for your lifestyle, and suggest materials needed to build your own custom RV camper.

Why Convert A Cargo Trailer?

One of the most popular trends in travel today is converting a cargo trailer into a tiny home on wheels. And it’s easy to see why- cargo trailers are relatively inexpensive, they can be towed by most SUVs, and they offer a great deal of flexibility when it comes to design. But what are the other benefits of converting a trailer?

Cargo trailers are easier to maneuver than RVs and travel trailers, making them ideal for exploring tight spaces and getting into remote areas. Plus, Cargo trailers offer a level of independence that RVers can only dream of. With your own place on wheels, you can go where you want, when you want – no reservations at RV parks required.

By starting with an empty utility trailer, you have a blank canvas where you can add in only the features and amenities that you need, resulting in a personalized camper that perfectly suits your needs. What’s more, converting a cargo trailer is often much cheaper than buying a new RV or used trailers from a retailer.

Beginning Our 7x16 Cargo Trailer Conversion

When Jake and I met for the first time in 2018 and he showed me the inside of his 7×16 cargo trailer camper, it had a bed, a small table, and a shower that worked.

There was no running water for the kitchen sink, no fridge, and hardly any storage space. Jake only had the basics. And when you’re a guy, I guess that’s all you really need. But I knew if I was going to see myself living full time, off the grid with the two of us, two dogs, and a rapidly growing wolf dog, we needed more room .

So after we got engaged, we contemplated what to do about the converted camper. Do we renovate? Should we sell it and buy a new RV? We had a really small budget and didn’t want to start our marriage in debt. So we decided we would renovate the enclosed trailer and make it custom to our needs.

I sat down, drew up some plans for what I wanted the new camper conversion layout to be, and we began the renovations. Here’s a picture of what the cargo trailer looked like before. We had a murphy bed that folded up against the wall. 

7x16 Cargo Trailer Renovation

To start the cargo trailer renovation process we took everything out. That included tearing out the murphy bed, cabinets and anything that was attached to the walls.

Then, we filled in all the holes on the shiplap walls with wood putty, sanded the imperfections and applied a fresh coat of paint (I think the color we used was called Panda White). It did wonders for the inside of the trailer, making it so light and bright.

Next, it was time to mount the bed. We decided not to do a murphy bed this time to make more room for the dogs to be able to sleep underneath us.

So we raised it up 3 feet from the floor and threw a full-size mattress on the bed frame. And for the dogs, we used a memory foam mattress. By cutting 2 feet off one end of the memory foam, it allowed room for extra storage space underneath the bed (and the dogs still have plenty of room).

At this point, we were anxious to go on a few weekend trips and spent a week in Telluride. We didn’t have any running water and just put a few storage tubs on the floor to bring the items we needed. But it was a much-needed camping trip. 

The Cargo Trailer Kitchen

Our next DIY project was the kitchen. Jake had only one cabinet, but I decided that we should keep it, and just find a couple more cabinets the same size and refinish them.

After searching a few thrift stores in town, we found 3 used cabinets from habitat for humanity. They were all different shades of brown so I took on the laborious task of sanding them all down and painted them all a beautiful teal/grey.

It took me a week to complete and had a few bumps in the road with raising one of the cabinets to be the same height as the others, but they turned out great and it saved us a lot of money. We installed new drawer handles so that they all matched and it gave them all a finished look. 

For the counter space, we found a beautiful 6ft slab of unfinished butcher block countertop for just shy of $200.

Luckily, my dad builds homes for a living and had the tools we needed to cut a hole in the countertop to fit our bar-style stainless steel kitchen sink.

The first week we had the butcher block in the trailer I was paranoid about staining the countertop and decided we needed to seal it with epoxy resin . It came out beautifully and is still in good shape!

Next, we installed the faucet to the kitchen counter and got to work on plumbing the kitchen sink.

Since we decided to leave the shower the way it was, we simply added another water line from the tankless hot water heater and ran it under the shower, over to the kitchen sink. We love the on demand hot water and just used regular fixtures from the hardware store for the sink faucet.

I knew I wanted a fridge in the trailer because tiny living full time out of a cooler is not ideal. You always get water at the bottom of the cooler that gets into all of the condiments and ends up being a total mess.

At the time, my parents had just purchased a brand new RV and told us they weren’t going to use the second outdoor fridge and told us they would love for us to put it to use in our cargo trailer. (Thank you very much, mom & dad). It runs great off of our 12 volt RV batteries. 

I added peel and stick tile subway style backsplash from Tic Tac Tiles and I love it. I played around with a darker shade I found at the local hardware store, but I ended up really hating the way it looked, so I tore it out. It was really easy to install the peel and stick tiles and made the kitchen area look complete. Plus food splatters wipe off effortlessly without having to scrub. 

Because our Cargo Trailer Conversion is a small space (only 112 sq ft), we decided to not install a stove. Instead, we have a 2 burner Propane Cooktop made by Camp Chef that I can use inside or outside. We also have a propane grill and a Coleman Camp Oven that can sit right on top of the propane cooktop for baking all kinds of dishes (highly recommended for all your baking cravings). So cooking a delicious meal in our trailer conversion hasn’t been an issue.

Bathroom & Shower

I originally didn’t include photos of our bathroom area when I first wrote this blog post because it was the least aesthetic part of our build. But, I’ve had a ton of requests to see what we did in the V(nose) of the camper conversion. 

One half of the V of the trailer has our shower, hot water heater, and our toilet. We installed a low flow shower head to help conserve water when we are camping. There are a ton of different brands of shower heads that are low flow, but we went with Oxygenics because many campers have attested that it is a high quality brand.

The other half of the front of our utility trailer has extra storage. We custom-built storage cabinets for all our towels, toiletries, and medicine. And on the other half, it stores our power source for the batteries and electrical panel. We wired our camper conversion to be able to hook up to shore power when we are at an RV park.

Storage, Storage, and more Storage

At this point, the cargo trailer conversion was really starting to shape up and the DIY projects were coming along. I was really happy with the progress we had made so far. But I knew we still lacked storage space. We stacked 2 cabinets for our clothes next to the bed to save space. Their height worked out perfectly and doubles as a nightstand. 

Next, we deconstructed an old dog kennel and installed it underneath the bed to keep the dogs from wandering around the trailer for the rare occasions we have to leave them home alone. 

I also painted a mural on the cargo trailer ramp door (previously, Jake would walk all over the back ramp when it was down which resulted in 1,000 ugly footprints.) And guess which one of us got to sleep next to the wall? Yupp, it’s me. So I painted it and told him he was not allowed to walk on the top half of the ramp anymore 😉

We knew we needed a table to work and a place to sit and eat when it is too cold or rainy to go outside. We found the plans for a simple murphy table, adjusted a few measurements, and built a multi-functional drop-down table. 

I found a bench that could be pushed up against the wall underneath the murphy table that also doubled as storage for books, and had cubbies for our socks and undies. 

Finishing Touches on our 7x16 Cargo Trailer Conversion

To make sure we we’re all set to be completely off grid in our cargo trailer conversion, we added 400 additional watts of solar on the roof (600 watts total). We went with the Renogy Solar Panel Kit . Then we cut holes out for 2 more windows to allow more fresh air inside the camper, one in the door and the other by the bed. Learn more about how we set up our cargo trailer solar system with batteries and inverter . 

Next, we installed a 16ft awning made by ALEKO which has literally doubled our living space. Seriously, it is amazing for sitting outside on sunny days, and it actually helps keep the trailer cooler. It’s has also been great for rainy days when the dogs want to be outside, but have a place to stay dry.

I reluctantly agreed to let Jake install a Senville Mini Split AC Unit (i think it’s ugly) but I will admit, the air conditioning has been useful on hot days. We can turn our Yamaha Generator on and it cools down the trailer in about 30 minutes.

There was enough space in the front of the trailer to mount two propane tanks next to the mini split which we use to work our tankless hot water heater and our wave 6 propane heater.

We added a cell phone booster  to help us get better signal when we are boondocking away from towns. It is especially useful for days when we have to get work done, we are not slowed down by the internet speed.

The final step was to decorate with a few accessories. I wanted to make our Cargo trailer feel like home and be welcoming and comfortable. So I added a few extra pillows, some blankets , a faux eucalyptus plant , hung some pictures with command strips, added storage hooks for backpacks and installed curtains. 

Cargo Trailer Conversion Frequently Asked Questions

I do get a bunch of questions about how much the renovation cost, how do we store water and what toilet do we use? So I’ll answer those here:

How much did the cargo trailer cost and how much were the renovations?

The cargo trailer bare-bones cost $6,000. It was custom built to be 7ft tall. Jake installed all the windows and roof fans himself. The renovations cost roughly $6,000. Keep in mind our biggest expenses was the Solar Panels ($1200), the AC unit ($1000), The bed ($800) and the awning ($1000). Everything else was done as cheaply as possible.

How do you heat the trailer?

We have a Wave 6 Propane Heater. It uses radiant heat as a result of a flameless catalytic combustion process. We use it on crisp days and cold nights. It keeps the trailer at a comfortable temperature running it on medium and low when the temp gets around 30 degrees. It uses propane very efficiently and we have it hooked up to a 20 gal propane tank on the hitch of the trailer.

Please make sure you open a window when operating this or any other propane heater. It can pose a carbon monoxide hazard when used without adequate ventilation.

How do you store water in your 7x16 cargo trailer? Do you have grey and black tanks?

For water, we have 30 gallons of water and store it in five 6 gallon containers that we fill up at ranger stations, campgrounds, rivers, anywhere that we can get water for washing dishes and taking showers. We do not have fresh water storage tanks, black or grey. The water from the sink and shower drains into buckets that we place under the trailer (which would be considered greywater).

We use all biodegradable soaps so we can dump on the ground when they are full. No, it is not illegal to dump grey water on the ground in open, public BLM or National Forest areas, where dispersed camping is allowed. As long as your grey tank contains water that was used for washing, it is legal to dump it on the ground. The reason we don’t have a black tank is because we have a mini porta potty toilet. So there is no need for a black tank.

How do you go to the bathroom in your cargo trailer?

As briefly discussed above, we have a mini porta potty toilet that we use. We use these holding tank deodorizers to keep it from getting smelly and dump at an RV dump station once a week (which you can find on campendium.com ). We do hope to get a Nature’s head self-contained compost toilet in the future. These toilets are great because they don’t have the foul odors associated with all other holding tank systems and compost your waste without much effort. 

7x16 Cargo Trailer Camper

We are so pleased with how our little 7×16 cargo trailer conversion into tiny home turned out. It has everything we need for off-grid adventures while still having the comfort of home feeling . 

If you have any questions about our cargo trailer or the building process, leave them in the comments below or send me a message on Instagram . If you would like to learn more about how to Boondock in your RV, click here . 

Thank you for following along with us on this journey. Be sure to save this post so you can find it later when you go to create your own one of a kind camper conversion.

19 Comments

How is the trailer insulated?

We used 2-inch foam board insulation.

Hi. Nice articles. One question, Nicoll: does having a pet wolf make it hard to go into different states or camp lands? How do u handle that?

Hey Jill! Thanks for asking, yes it does. Some states do not allow wolf dog hybrids at all. But we haven’t had issues with having him at campgrounds. We actually have issues with our cargo trailer being accepted at campgrounds. This is why we mostly boondock!

What do you do for work?

Hey Clayton, we have a lead gen business!

What did you use to build the bed? Is it on a platform or connected to the wall?

We bolted the bed platform into the steel frame of the cargo trailer.

Hey Guys, We’re converting a cargo trailer into a tiny home as well. I’m a little bit worried about keeping the trailer cool enough for the dogs on hot days that we can’t take them with us on whatever activity we have planned. Is the two inch insulation enough? I also plan on getting a pop out fan on the ceiling and an air conditioning unit. This being said, do you have any suggestions?

-Thanks, Max

Hey Max! I think if you are able to install a few max air fans and an AC unit (and can keep it powered with a generator). It will definitely be cool enough for your dogs. We were really happy with the mini-split we bought and installed (linked in the article). It cooled down the cargo trailer quickly and efficiently. Good luck with your conversion! Let us know if you have any other questions!

Awesome and very informative article! Thank You. I have a 1 year plan to be living in a 7×16 full time, been a fulltime RV’er for the last 6 years but want something “easier.” I consider myself very handy and plan on doing everything I can myself. My questionis what would you or your husband say has been the most challenging part of your build? I’m kinda nervous about the electrical..I’m not doing any solar right now($$$) but definitely an option in the future. Will be hooked up to 50A shore power for the most part. Thanks again!!!!

Thank you Marshall, I’m glad you found my article helpful! I think either plumbing or electrical would be the two biggest challenges. But my husband had some electrical experience prior, so he had a little advantage. Let me know if you have any specific questions about either I can expand on!

What kind of latch did you use on your door ? We’ve looked everywhere for one and can’t find one with the right measurements

Our cargo trailer door came with the latch we used. But you could try an RV latch like this one? https://amzn.to/3N8kowa

Great article. I didn’t see where you mentioned the brand/model of the trailer? I want to do what your doing but think it is important to know that first.

It was a Look trailer. Jake had it custom ordered to be 7ft fall on the inside, so it was taller than a typical cargo trailer. But you can call other companies and ask for estimates.

Great article and inspiration. Intrigued to hear you used 2inch insulation when most others seem to only use 1inch. I’ll bet that makes a big difference. Did you use a vapour barrier over that before installing the wall covering? Curious why you went with a Wave6 heater rather than something that direct vents to the outside, but I guess the minisplit handles most of your heating and cooling needs? I’m looking at converting our 2022 7×16 cargo trailer into an art studio for my textile artist fiancé, so without bed and kitchen and shower it will be quite a different layout. Also dreaming up plans for a similar size live-in trailer for her mom, who may come live with us in the back40. I don’t know about you, but I love nerding out and obsessing about all the different layout options and systems design etc. Anyway, thanks for providing inspiration here!

In one of the comments you mentioned that getting the cargo trailer camper into some campgrounds was difficult. Can you tell more about that? I want to build one but if I can’t use it at say state or national parks then I’ll reconsider.

I can’t really speak to booking cargo trailers in National Parks/State Parks because we usually just camp off-grid when we’re there. But when it comes to trying to book spots at RV parks in cities to visit family, it’s been a bit of a hassle. They often ask about our rig, and then they’ll say something like, “Sorry, we don’t accept self-converted RVs.” Hope that helps!

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10 Best Enclosed Trailer Camper Conversion Ideas [Pictures Inside]

Buying a used RV or a new RV from the retailer will be very expensive. Even if you purchase an expensive RV sometimes, you don’t like the design. As a result, nowadays, most people are deciding to build a travel trailer on their own. 

You may be wondering if it is possible. Yes, it is possible and, it is pretty common nowadays. One of the most popular ways to do this is by using a cargo trailer.

Once you find a perfect cargo trailer, you can set up a DIY project and make yourself an awesome camper. 

Cargo vans are the best vehicles for camper conversions because they come with a lot of space inside so that you can fit all your amenities. Simply, you can make everything out of a cargo van. 

You can even build out a luxury travel trailer from a cargo van. So, for this reason, building out a camper from an enclosed cargo trailer is becoming popular in the camping community. 

Another reason these enclosed trailer camper conversions are becoming popular is that you can get the best at an affordable price.

Keep in mind that this is not an easy task. It takes a lot of time and effort to successfully convert your cargo trailer into a camper trailer. Once done, you are ready to hit the road or you can rent your travel trailer and earn some money. 

In this article, we are gonna show you some of the best cargo trailer camper conversions that you can use as an inspiration for your conversion. Let’s dig deep.

Table of Contents

The Best Cargo Trailers for Camper Conversion

Without further delays let’s have a look at some of the most beautiful, creative, and stunning cargo trailer conversion ideas. You can use one of these cargo trailers and convert them into a travel trailer.

6×10 Haulmark Cargo Trailer

This is simply an awesome travel trailer conversion. If you look at it you may think that it is a cargo van, but it is a camper. They used slim rooftop solar panels to provide electricity to the rig. 

The best part of this rig is that they have used all materials from the scratch and built a camper that perfectly suits them. They have even created a workspace for working comfortably. 

For storage space, they have created some overhead storage cabinets to store some camping stuff. Also, there is a storage option under the bed. Some of the highlight features of this camper conversions are:

• A rooftop solar panel that provides electricity to the entire rig
• Two burner stove
• Water heater
• Mini refrigerator
• City water connection
• Full insulation

If you are looking to build a full-timing RV you can opt for this design.

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Steve and Kelly’s Rustic Rig

This is one of the most traditional-looking 17-foot v-nose travel trailers. The owners of this trailer are actually into the market to buy a new travel trailer. Before buying one they have some requirements. Some of them are:

• The travel trailer does not weigh more than 4000 pounds. 
• They needed a good ground clearance as they often do off-grid camping. 
• They wanted dual axles and an electric braking system for extra safety.
• A good quality travel trailer that can withstand any type of weather.
• A queen-sized bed.
• Insulated roofs and walls. 
• Shower and a composting toilet.
• Air conditioner.

They searched the whole market and found that if all these things are present the trailer is heavier. If the trailer is lighter some of their requirements are missed. So they decided to build their travel trailer. 

They found one travel trailer manufacturer company, explained all their requirements, and ended up with a 17-foot v-nose trailer.

Stealth Camper with Rugged Charm

If you are fond of weekend adventure camping or an urban-type camping inspiration then you can opt for this design. The coolest part of this camper is you can easily park this one in campgrounds and RV parks. 

As they are small in size you can even park them in the streets without worrying about the space. The best part of this is the entire camper is designed taking inspiration from tiny homes or tiny houses.

The coolest thing the designer does is that they have used glass tiles all over the kitchen and the bathroom. This created a stunning and modern look. You can use this camper for weekend trips.

The owner used over 1500 watts of solar panel to provide electricity to the entire rig. This rugged camper comes with a 2.37-gallon water tank, water purifier, and a 26 inches TV . This rugged camper also has seven inches wide interior space to roam around.

Cozy Cabin for Off-Grid Camping

If you are looking for off-grid camping without any hookups then, cargo conversions are better. 

You can use this camper conversion idea if you often do off-grid camping because you can carry your drinking water easily, and there is a composting toilet.

With this design, there is no need to look for a well-developed campground or an RV park.

This is a 7×12 insulated cargo van. The owner of this cargo van converted this into a camper van that can be for two people.

As this cargo van is small in size, they do not implement a bathroom facility. But they have established a propane Coleman stove along with gravity plumbing with a hand pump.

An Engineering Marvel

Not everybody can turn a 16-foot Haulmark cargo van into a luxurious travel trailer. But Bill did it. He was an engineer by profession and always loved to travel with his Rottweiler. But many hotels didn’t accept his dog. 

To get rid of all these things, Bill decided to use his 16-foot Haulmark cargo van and, within a few days, he turned it into an 80-square-foot tiny home with all luxurious amenities. 

As it had very little place inside the cargo van Bill used his engineering brain and found an innovative way that will quickly transform this bedroom into a workspace or a dining room, or a living room. 

He also added a toilet along with some plumbing facilities. In addition to this, he added a microwave. All these things made by him turned the 16-foot Haulmark cargo van into a masterpiece. With this, he can now travel anywhere along with his Rottweiler.

Converted Cargo Trailers Gallery

Guide to a Successful Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion

As a lot of people are preparing to convert a cargo van into a luxurious camper van, some people might want to give it a try. But they don’t know where to begin. 

Here is a guide that will help you in this process. Follow the tips mentioned here and start your cargo conversion. Once it is ready hit the road and enjoy.

Establish your budget

This is an important step you need to think about before starting your work. Many campers want to do this DIY option because it is a money saver. Some campers even converted them with just $2000.

The other advantage of this conversion is that you can convert your rig into any way you want. Regardless of whatever plans you have in mind, it is very important to set up a budget. 

Also, research a little bit on the materials and the gears you want to install on your rig. This will help you to establish your budget. Also, you won’t run out of funds with a half-completed rig. 

Consider your camping style

Before customizing your cargo van you need to think about your camping style. This will help you to customize your rig accordingly and in the end, you won’t be disappointed.

Suppose if you want to boondock in the wild and you have customized your rig in a hurry with all the amenities that suit to travel in a well-developed RV park then you will surely be disappointed. So to avoid all these consider your camping style first.

If you’re not wanting to do it all yourself, you can purchase an RV from anywhere using a service like  A1 Auto Transport RV shipping service . This way, you can save big time on any headache if you don’t want to take on the burden of a camper conversion.

Systems to install

Camping in the wild is totally different from camping in a well-developed campground. If you prefer to camp in campgrounds and RV parks that are filled with all hookups and bathrooms then you can omit having a bathroom and concentrate more on shore power and water.

If you love to go boondocking all the time then you need to consider options like a battery, inverter, solar panels, composting toilet, fresh water tanks, etc. 

The best thing you will get if you use a cargo trailer for camper conversion is that you will get a blank slate. You can have the freedom to customize whatever way you want.

See also: How to Design Your Campervan Layout?

Here are some of the considerations for your layout plans:

• How many people are traveling with you? Are you a solo camper or a group traveler? This will help you to use the space effectively. If you are a solo traveler you can opt for less sleeping space and if you are a group traveler you can go with more sleeping space.
• How do you prepare your food? Do you prefer cooking outside to get a camping experience? If so, you can omit a kitchen and have extra storage for extra stuff. If you prefer to cook in a kitchen then you need to consider a kitchen with a sink and an ample counter.
• If you plan to work from your rig then consider a small workspace for yourself.
• What activities do you perform while camping? If you are a hiker then no issues as you just want a pair of boots and a backpack. But if you are a mountain biker you need extra space to store your essentials.
• How long do your trips last? If you are a weekend traveler then you can adjust without having a comfortable bed. But if you spend months camping you need to consider a comfortable mattress.

All these things will help you to get your rig into the shape you want.

Draw your plans

With the previous step, you should have got an idea of what you should consider in a camper. Now it is time to sketch some ideas on paper. Go for multiple revisions until you find the perfect plan.

What you have in mind sometimes won’t work if you physically see it. So it is better to draw a plan. This will help you to understand how your camper will be once it gets into shape.

If paper and pencil don’t work for you, you can take a piece of chalk and draw on the floor of your rig. This will help you to visualize your trailer. You can also use premade layouts that are available online if you aren’t comfortable with your own plan.

Get into the work

Once your plan is ready, now it’s time to get into the work. If you don’t have any camping experience previously you can rent a camper and start with your first trip. You will be amazed by that trip.

Also, this will help you to give new ideas and make some changes to your plan. Sometimes you may even find a very important thing you missed in your plan or sometimes you may have added a thing that you haven’t used at all. 

Once your plan is finalized, start with your work. If you aren’t comfortable with your work you can hire professionals and tell them about your plan and they will make it ready for you. 

Also, you need to be open to new changes because once you start the work sometimes you will end up with a totally different plan than you previously had in mind. It will allow you to solve the issues that exist when customizing your rig.

Hit the road

Once your rig is ready it is time to hit the road. First, try a short weekend trip to check all the things are right for you. Once everything is right you can go wherever you want. 

Do cargo trailers make good campers?

As cargo trailers come up with a lot of space you can convert them into stunning campers. Also, the cargo travel trailers are suitable, cost-effective, and versatile. So most people prefer cargo trailers for camping conversion. 

The best part of the cargo vans is that almost any cargo van can be converted into a camper van. With all these advantages you can convert a cargo trailer into an amazing camper.

Can you sleep in a cargo trailer?

No, you cannot sleep in a cargo trailer without making any modifications to them. Sleeping in an enclosed trailer without any modifications will lead you to injuries because of the falling objects. 

But once you convert your cargo van into a camper van you can comfortably sleep otherwise it is not at all recommended. 

What is the best cargo trailer for a camper conversion?

No matter what kind of cargo van you have, you can turn any cargo van into a beautiful and luxurious camper. But you need to consider the size of the cargo van before starting the conversion.

If your cargo trailer comes with folding doors, then you can convert your cargo van into a Toy Hauler. A lot of people prefer this one. 

Can you do your cargo trailer camper conversion yourself?

Absolutely you can do your cargo trailer conversion yourself. In fact, most of the campers prefer this method as it saves a lot of money.

If you are looking to convert your cargo trailer into a camper try checking out our guidelines mentioned above. This will help you to perform the conversion smoothly without much worrying about the budget and what to include in your camper.

How Much Does It Cost To Convert A Cargo Trailer Into A Camper?

Since each camper conversion is unique the prices may vary from person to person. If you want a simple camper conversion it will don’t cost you much, but if you want your camper to be luxurious with all the amenities then it will cost you more.

Overall the expected range to convert a cargo van into a camper trailer will range from $5000 to $15000. 

If you are starting everything with new the trailer itself will cost you around $4000 to $5000. If you are looking for a used cargo van it will cost somewhere around $2500. 

If you come across a cargo van with a price tag less than or equal to $1000 then there is something seriously wrong with it. So better avoid them. 

These are some of the cool camper conversion ideas that you can consider for your project. If you have some DIY skills you can convert your cargo van into an amazing camper.

Once you finish converting it will give you an amazing experience. But if you aren’t comfortable converting it on your own you can hire some professionals and explain to them what you need and they will make it for you. 

Converting a cargo van into a camper van will not only give you an amazing experience but also saves you a lot of money. It will give you complete freedom to make whatever you want. 

If you do not have a cargo trailer with you you need to buy one. It will increase your budget. But it has an advantage. As the trailer is new you don’t need to worry about the parts that need to be replaced in the old trailer or whether your old trailer works or not. 

Once you have picked up your trailer for camper conversion you can start with the process and end up with a beautiful and amazing camper. All your hard work never goes in vain.

I`m a current Law Enforcement Officer working within the Counterterrorism Bureau in New York State. I have been Camping for over 20 years. My styles of camping include tent, car, truck, van, and RV travel trailer. I have a YouTube channel where I teach all types of camping with an entertaining method: https://youtube.com/@TheSmallsRVAdventures

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6’x12′ Formula Cargo Trailer/Camper Conversion

This 6’x12′ Formula cargo trailer was custom built for a customer to turn into a small camper trailer. With unfinished floors and walls, a finished ceiling with coving, 2 windows on the roadside and one on the curbside, an electrical panel, and tongue-mounted propane, this trailer provides the perfect base for a small camper trailer. The customer planned to add a front kitchen, bed, and other items himself.

Interested in a similar trailer? Check out the ATC Stō 350 Adventure Toy Hauler , which is a versatile and configurable cargo trailer camper trailer conversion, allowing you to load up or strip down as much as you need on a trip-to-trip basis.

Although this trailer is no longer in stock, we can custom build one for you. Please complete our contact form or call us at 630-349-7588.

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The Beginner’s Guide to Converting a Cargo Trailer into a Camper

Cargo trailer camper conversions are not for the faint of heart. Depending on the type of trailer you’re converting, and how often you can work on it, these projects can take anywhere from a month to a couple of years. 

It may be a lot of hard work, but if you’re the handy type, there’s no better way to create your own customized camper on a budget. A cargo trailer conversion is a particularly great option if you’ve scoured every RV show and dealership in the area and are struggling to find your dream RV (one that checks all of your boxes). 

So, do you have what it takes to convert a cargo trailer into a camper? 

Let’s find out!

Key Takeaways

• A cargo trailer is a more customizable , cost-effective , and lightweight alternative to traditional RVs.
• When choosing the right cargo trailer—consider size , weight capacity, and construction quality to ensure a solid foundation for the conversion.

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Why Should You Convert Your Cargo Trailer into a Camper?

Do you find yourself looking at RVs (either at dealerships or RV shows) and saying things like…

• Why is that there? It should be on the other side.
• I wish they used better-quality cabinets.
• I wish they had storage for (insert your unique brand of gear here). 
• I could do it better.

When Corey from the DIY Cargo Trailer YouTube channel looked at RVs on the market, he struggled to find an RV that met all of his wishlist items, so he decided to take matters into his own hands. You can check out his conversion journey here .  

If you’re in a similar situation, a cargo trailer camper conversion may be in your future. It’s the ultimate way to customize an RV to your needs (in a cost-effective way). And, if you already own a cargo trailer, you probably already have a tow vehicle ready to go.

Save up to $1,200/year on RV storage & parking

Phase 1: plan your cargo trailer conversion layout.

Most people try to speed through the layout planning phase of their cargo trailer conversion, but I recommend taking your time when planning the best use of your space. Flesh out all the different options so that you can make an informed decision without regrets.  

Here’s how…

Step #1: Over-Consume Information and Over-Research

Yes, I’m being serious . Here’s why you want to overconsume information–be it YouTube tutorials or step-by-step blog articles. This phase of the process is a time to learn from those who’ve walked this path before. Because starting out, you don’t know what you don’t know . 

By delving deep into others’ experiences, you learn…

• What’s possible
• What you like – and don’t like,
• How to DIY  
• And – more importantly – how not to DIY

Immerse yourself in the Camper Conversion space by watching a ton of videos on Youtube channels like…

• New Jersey Outdoor : Shows lots of different options and designs that other DIYers have used.
• Exploring Alternatives : Helps you decide what styles fit you best. 
• Offroad Nomads and DIY Cargo Trailer : Show you the processes they used to convert their campers

Or, if you’re more of a reader, check out blogs like…

• The Adventurous Way
• The Tiny Life
• Off Grid Spot
• Cargo Trailer Campers   

Lastly, attend RV shows and look at everything.

Once you’ve digested all the information you can possibly stomach, it’s time to put the pieces in motion. 

Step #2: Make Your Wish List

The next step is to write down every feature you’ve seen that you really want in your camper. 

• Do you like that coffee bar? Copy it. 
• Is that customer slide-out gun case a perfect fit for your camper? Use it!  
• Did you see an extensive spice rack on Pinterest that actually keeps all of your spices in place while you travel? Pin it so that you can replicate it later.

Then, come back to earth and look at the cargo trailer you’re working with to evaluate how much of your wish list is possible.

Step #3: Draft a Floor Plan 

Even better, draft 4 or 5 plans. Put together different variations of your “must-haves” to see which you like best. 

Whatever you do, please get feedback from those who may be sharing the space with you. Having an extra set of eyes will help you identify projects that seem like a good idea to you, but will actually create problems somewhere else. This step can help prevent big (and costly) mistakes. 

For example, say you’re thinking about designing a kitchen with the fridge and the dishwasher in the same corner. If you go through with it, you’ll soon discover that you can’t open both appliances at the same time –which is a recipe for disaster.  

Had you asked someone for a second opinion, they would have told you, “That’s a bad idea.” But you didn’t. And now you have to close the dishwasher every time someone tries to get into the fridge while you’re doing dishes. 

Step #4: Get Proof of Concept

If you’re experimenting with tech, like solar panels , for example, set them up to make sure they operate at a level that supplies the energy needs of the appliances you want to have in your camper.   Aside from the energy needs of your appliances, you’ll also need to account for the amount of space your solar system/batteries will take up (and incorporate these rough dimensions into your design) . Once you know how many batteries you need, you can allocate the necessary amount of space for them inside your camper. 

One of the great things about YouTube is that you can find examples of what works and what doesn’t work. 

If you have an idea – like installing a gravity-feed shower outside your teardrop –you may not be sure of the best way to go about that. Fortunately, you can always consult YouTube, and see how others have set up their gravity feed showers. As a first step, research what outdoor shower works best for your space, and then put it together yourself. 

The b est way I’ve found to get proof of concept is to attend an RV show . Here, you’ll see examples of designs put into action. You can also pepper the salespeople with questions and get immediate answers. 

Step #5: Set a Budget

Your budget depends on the type and size of the cargo trailer you’re converting. It also depends on how you plan to use it. Are you living in it? Are you taking it camping for a weekend? Do you prefer luxury or roughing it? Do you even need power and plumbing? 

Finally, the cost of supplies also depends on where you live. It’s easy to get carried away with all the possibilities, so give yourself a budget . 

Phase 2: It’s Time to Execute Your Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion

You’ve done the hard part. You’ve got everything planned out, so let’s bring it to life.

Step #1: Strip Down Your Cargo Trailer

Take everything out. You should be left with bare metal walls. If you’ve used it as a cargo trailer for work in the past, then clean the interior so that there’s no residual material left from when it was a cargo trailer. The last thing you want is for your new tiny home to still smell like whatever you previously stored– like gasoline and old work rags.  

Step #2: Frame and Insulate Your Camper

Use 2x4s to frame the walls you want to put up – if any. Now, insulate between the studs with your chosen insulation.

Step #3: Install Your Electrical and Solar Power

Run your electrical wiring to the places you’ve marked for outlets and lighting.

You tested them before, but if you’re using solar as a power source, then now’s the time to install the solar panels on your roof. Once you’ve installed the solar system in your camper, test the connections before closing up any walls or the ceiling. 

Step #4: HVAC & Plumbing 

Rough in all of your connections to make sure they fit before gluing them together. Then, hook up your pipes and connect them to your gray and black water tanks. And don’t forget the waterline for your fridge if you need it.

If you’re using a mini-split system, you should wait to install it until after you’ve finished the walls. Otherwise, start running your ducts and vents, then install the unit. As a last step, test it. 

Step #5: Finish the Walls

With all the work done behind the walls, now you can seal it up with 5 mm or plyboard . Again, make sure you cut out space for lighting and outlets to install later. Prime or texture walls as desired before you paint . 

Step #6: Time for Cabinets! 

Here’s where you bring your dream camper to life. You get to choose how you configure your space , and the options are limitless. 

Make sure to anchor your cabinets to the studs, so they don’t shift in transit. Then, install cabinet clasps, so the doors stay shut as well.

Step #7: Flooring 

Now that all the heavy lifting is done, you can put down your floors without fear of ruining them. Then, install the baseboards.

Alternatively, if you’re redoing a small cargo trailer and you don’t plan on using baseboards or quarter-round, you can put down the flooring first – even before insulating – to give it a cleaner finish. You’ll just need to put down a protective layer to keep your floors pristine. 

Step #8: Finishing work 

Now, it’s time to attend to wrap up the finishing touches. If you have wires hanging from the ceiling, you’ll want to install lighting and outlets.

Next on your list is your appliances! After installation, make sure your appliances work without tripping any breakers. Then, touch up the paint and add your own splash of flavor with decorations and RV accessories.  

Step #9: Move in! 

You’ve brought your dream camper to life. Now, make it livable. Make your bed. Stock your cabinets. Hook up your tow vehicle. Now, it’s time to explore the open road.

Cause after all that, you deserve a vacation!

Protect Your Hard Work    

After you’ve enjoyed the fruits of your labor and returned home, it’s time to protect your hard work.  

That RV renovation took a lot of blood, sweat, tears (and time) to complete. And now, you want to make sure it lasts for years to come. 

That’s why you’re looking for a place to store it that’s safe from theft, pests, and severe weather .  

If you store it in your home garage , you won’t have any room for your daily drivers, lawn equipment, or power tools. If your RV is large enough, fitting it in a standard-sized, two-car garage could be impossible. 

That’s where Neighbor can help.

Neighbor is a peer-to-peer RV storage marketplace with storage options that are up to 50% cheaper than traditional storage providers’.

With Neighbor, you can find RV storage options in all 50 states (and you may even find storage spaces in your very own neighborhood ).

Find listings from pre-screened hosts nearest you ! 

Frequently Asked Questions

How to convert a cargo trailer into a camper.

You can easily convert a cargo trailer into a camper by adding electrical, a vent, a cot, a basic sink, and carpeting, or you can go big with a full conversion, as we’ve outlined here. 

How Much Does It Typically Cost to Convert a Cargo Trailer Into a Camper?

Converting a cargo trailer into a camper can cost between $7,000 and $15,000 , making it a more affordable option compared to buying a traditional RV.

Can I Tow a Cargo Trailer Camper With My Mid-Sized Vehicle?

It depends on your camper’s weight and your vehicle’s towing capacity. Usually, yes, you can tow a cargo trailer camper with your mid-sized vehicle .  

What Are Some Space-Saving Furniture Options for My Trailer Camper Conversion?

To make the most of the limited space in your cargo trailer camper, consider using elevator beds, Murphy beds , and fold-out futons. 

Is It Possible to Have a Fully Functional Kitchen and Bathroom in a Cargo Trailer Camper?

The size of your trailer does matter, but even a 10-foot camper can have a small kitchen and wet bath . It won’t be a fully functional kitchen with a whole suite of appliances, but you can have a small fridge and a microwave with careful planning and smart design considerations. 

With these in place, amenities like hot water and a composting toilet can be incorporated.

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CTConversion

Designers & builders based in ogden, ut., it's all about getting the most out of life, rv's built by rv'ers, we work with you, customization, we build one trailer at a time so you get the personalized attention you deserve., the beginning.

Our adventures in converting cargo trailers started out as a way to save money and cut out the fluff. After looking at many factory toy haulers, it was decided to buy a plain cargo trailer and build in just the functionality that we wanted. We love to travel with our motorcycles and visit new places, so our first priority was a secure way of hauling our bikes, and a comfortable place to sleep, wherever we might end up.

The Evolution

It soon became apparent to us that solar power was a necessity to provide lights and run a 12V cooler. So we designed a system and found we could easily spend a week on the road without the need to plug in.

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You might say we have been there...Done that We have tried a lot of different ways of doing things, and have figured out what works...and what doesn't.

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Several trailers later and lots of smiles on the road, we have figured out a few things. So, Let us put our experience to work for you.

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We bring over 30 years of experience to the table as a Machinist, Systems Designer, and licensed General and Electrical Contractor. We have the experience to help you enjoy RV'ing in a rig designed for you. We will spend the time working with you in the design process to ensure you get what you really want. Feel free to browse our site and our Custom Fabrication site HDCustomFab.com for more information about some of our past builds and projects.

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Cargo Trailer Camper Conversion

A timeline of projects for our 7 x 16 cargo trailer camper conversion. This was an 18 month long journey and labor of love to turn a cargo trailer into a comfortable and beautiful RV. 

After more than a year and a half of hard work we are finally ready to say that Minnie, our cargo trailer conversion , is done and ready for the road.

It’s been a lot of work but we are so thrilled with the way it’s turned out.

We knew what we wanted it to look like but seeing our vision go from paper to reality is beyond exciting.

There’s a video with a complete tour of the inside and outside of Minnie that you can check out on our YouTube channe l (link at the end of the post). We are also offering a 2D floor plan of our cargo trailer conversion. Check out the link at the end of the post.

Let’s start at the beginning…

We have been camping our whole lives, first with our families when we were growing up and eventually with our girls as they were growing up.

Actually, we met while camping with our families when we were young little pups so camping is sort of in our blood. 

When we moved to Florida several years ago we had to sell our RV because we didn’t have room to store it. It only took a year or two and we started to feel the pull of the great outdoors.

We ended up buying a  pop-up and camping in that for a few years. When we moved to Illinois camping once again took a back seat. Then we moved to North Carolina, where we are today, and decided that we needed to camp again.

This time though, we were going to create exactly what we wanted.We’ve always wanted to build our own camper but we both had two very different ideas on how to do it. I wanted to buy a cute little vintage trailer, completely gut it and rebuild it.

The mister wanted to buy a cargo trailer and build that up from nothing. 

It took a couple of years to convince me but I finally leaned his way. The tipping points were water damage and a bathroom.

We looked at several old RV’s before we settled on the cargo trailer idea. Every trailer that we looked at had water damage, a common problem in older RVs.

We could definitely fix it but didn’t want to deal with those kinds of issues.

I wanted vintage and we looked at those too, but many smaller RVs don’t have bathrooms, or room for a bathroom.

Not having a bathroom was a deal breaker for me so, regrettably, we moved away from vintage trailers.

We also looked at new RVs. Actually, we looked at a lot of new RVs. 

They just don’t make them very well anymore, and they are pretty expensive.

We knew that we could do better so I conceded to the hubs and we went and ordered a cargo trailer.

Our trailer was custom made to our specifications. We had 3 RV windows installed, an RV door with a window and gray colored metal on the outside.

Ours would have barn doors and 7 foot ceilings to make it feel more spacious. We don’t have a lot of room to store an RV at our house so we went smaller with a 16′ long trailer.

Even with the addition of a few upgrades, we came in way cheaper than a typical RV. All we had to do was to build it up to fit our needs. Easy, right?

We waited 6 weeks for our trailer to get built and brought it home to begin it’s transformation. That was back in August of 2017.

Little did we know that it would take almost two years to finish our project.

We didn’t start any construction until February of 2018 but we were busy behind the scenes.

Planning and discussing all of the projects that we would have to do in order to get it ready for camping.

This was an early layout of our 112 square foot space. It ended up looking very similar to this, except for the placement of the shower and toilet.

I had to concede my trailer choice but Roger also had to make concessions.

He was fine slapping a mattress in there, with a/c and calling it a day. 

Ummm…. not gonna happen on my watch .

I agreed to a cargo trailer but it had to look good, like a real RV, and it had to have a bathroom. I wasn’t willing to give up on either issue. 

Finally in February of 2018, we were ready enough to start building.

The first project that we tackled was the ceiling. We insulated it and installed tongue and groove planks . We also wired the ceiling for 12 volt lighting.

Next, we built a platform bed with storage drawers underneath. A shiplap wall was also built to separate the back barn doors and offer more stability for the bed.

We were anxious to go camping so our next project was the a/c. We decided to go with a dual hose portable unit so that we didn’t have to cut a hole in the ceiling (hello, water!) or the side.

Before we installed it we did a little experiment with a single hose vs. dual hose a/c.

You can check out the video, here . 

With the a/c up and running, we threw a mattress on the platform and took our first camping trip. 

We didn’t have running water, and we made a DIY canopy from a $10 piece of plastic, but we had a relaxing weekend. By this time we had been at it almost 4 months and needed a break.

We learned a lot from that first little weekend away.

It helped us to figure out what we needed and what we didn’t. It also gave us the motivation to keep going. 

The next project was the vinyl plank flooring . We discussed painting the wood floors but in the end, we went with  planks.

I’m glad that we chose them. They look great and have held up well with the dogs (plus, I didn’t have to paint them).

While we were doing the floors, I got busy painting the walls. Oy…I lost count of the coats that I had to put up. I think it was 4 or 5. In other words…a lot of paint.

It did wonders for the inside though. So light and bright!

With the walls and floors complete, we moved on to framing out the rest of the king size bed. We built drawers for storage and moved on to the kitchen.

In order to separate the kitchen from the bathroom, we had to build a wall. Then we framed out our cabinets and prepared them for the countertop.

We had gotten our hands on a 12′ slab of walnut for the countertop and I had to refinish it before we could install it.

It took me two weeks, and working on it every day, to get it ready and waterproofed. 

Finally, we installed the walnut butcher block countertop , the sink and faucet and Roger moved on to the electric.

Lights and Electrical

Besides the 6, 12 volt disc lights on the ceiling, we installed 2 sconces over the bed and a flush light over the kitchen sink. The lights are just normal fixtures that you would see in a house (I found them here ).

I just added a 12 volt bulb to each one so that we could run it off of battery if needed.

He also ran electric for the a/c, refrigerator, several outlets, including light switches next to the bed and by the door, and an exhaust fan for the shower.

Running the electric took a few weekends to complete but it went smoothly. 

Next, he ran all the plumbing, from the kitchen sink to the toilet and the shower. We didn’t add any tanks to the RV so we are not self-contained, but we can still camp at campgrounds with hookups.

Maybe someday we’ll add the equipment needed to go boondocking, but we’re just looking to get away for weekend trips.

RV Bathroom

With the kitchen in working order (minus the cabinet doors), we moved on to the front of the RV and the shower.

This part of the process was tough. A lot of discussion and planning went into it so that we had a working shower that was watertight.

Not an easy task when you have to build everything custom. We placed the shower in the v-nose (front of the trailer) and carefully built it from scratch. 

Once the walls went up and the floor was in, we waterproofed everything with 7 coats of Red Guard.

Next, we installed the corrugated metal, marble threshold and the shower head.

It was ready to use but we had some finishing touches to do before we could call it done, like an RV DIY wood shower mat .

With the shower shaping up I installed our 3 new window coverings, room darkening woven bamboo shades.

They are definitely a far cry from the towels that I hung from temporary rods for our first two trips out. I think I may have even hung Roger’s t-shirts up to block the sun.

Adding the Finishing Touches

In between all of that, I also worked on our DIY upholstered storage ottomans . We needed something that was multi-functional so I came up with a simple design and built exactly what we needed.

Now we have 2 stools for our drop-down table, extra storage space for dirty laundry and extra blankets, and a step stool so that we can get into our bed. 

While I was busy with my projects, Roger was busy installing the new RV toilet and plumbing. The bathroom that I had wished for was really taking shape.

Granted, I don’t have a vanity and sink but the kitchen sink is sufficient for our needs. 

After we finished the plumbing we worked on the finishing touches which included cabinet doors and trim.

Remember, every piece is custom and that includes the cabinet doors and ceiling trim. 

What a difference they made in the space. The new doors and drawer faces brought everything together. 

RV Kitchen Backsplash

Next, I worked on the RV kitchen backsplash . I tried peel and stick tile, twice, but eventually ended up using self-adhesive removable wallpaper.

So easy to put up and I love how it turned out.

I also added 2 shelves from the leftover walnut butcher block that we used for the kitchen countertop. 

Because we only have 100 square feet of living space we decided to not install a stove.

We have an induction cooktop that we bring with us, as well as a grill, so cooking a proper meal hasn’t been an issue. 

The last project was the trim around the ceiling and on the wall that we built to separate the kitchen and bathroom.

We had every intention of installing a door for the bathroom but decided that we didn’t want to close in our already tiny space. Maybe down the road we’ll decide to do something different but it works for us right now. 

Sometimes you have to make adjustments like that when you’re building a small space. 

The final step was to decorate with a few well-chosen accessories.

I wanted to make our traveling home away from home feel more welcoming and comfortable so I added a few pillows, a macrame wall hanging and a couple of faux plants. 

Cargo Trailer Conversion Garage

Not many RV’s or cargo trailer conversions have their own garage. This space was a must-have for Roger so we had it all planned out from the beginning.

We created enough space for the water heater, all the electrical and the spare tire. Also it’s where all of our camping gear lives so that we don’t have to store it in our living space.

We love all of the extra storage and it’s so easy to reach all of our utilities.

The Outside of our Cargo Trailer Conversion

The outside of the trailer hasn’t seen much action but we did install a custom awning. It helps protect us from sun and rain, and I really love the stripes.

Even with the awning installed, we still have a few projects on the outside to finish up, like caulking the windows and door, but Minnie is more than ready for action.

We’d like to go boondocking at some point so we’ll eventually have to add a generator and black or gray water tanks. Those projects are way down on our “someday” list and not something that we’re worried about doing right now.

So that’s a wrap! We are thrilled with the way our cargo trailer camper conversion turned out and so excited to go on lots of adventures.

Of course we’re a bit sad that the whole process is over but we’re hoping to build a bigger version…soon!

Thanks so much for following along with us on this journey.

Don’t forget to head over to our YouTube channel and check out our videos, cargo trailer conversion reveal tour and our Q&A video . And check out our 2D floor plan that we’re offering (after a ton of requests).

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• Wall sconces and flush light over kitchen – (similar)
• Macrame wall hanging – Etsy
• Walnut butcher block (used for countertop, shelves and table) – Floor & Decor
• Flooring – Home Depot
• Kitchen backsplash – Loomwell
• Dometic RV toilet  
• Woven window shades – Blinds.com
• Kitchen faucet, shower head, robe hooks and toilet paper holder – Pfister
• Cabinet pulls – Home Depot
• Awning – Carefree of Colorado

28 Comments

This is a really nice conversion. Probably the nicest I’ve seen. I just came back from living on a sailboat for a few years, and I think this type of project is calling to me next! <3

Thanks so much, Cheri! We really enjoyed building our cargo trailer and have loved using it. Wow, living on a sailboat sounds like a fun adventure. I’m sure you would enjoy cargo trailer camping. 🙂

Hi Kristi & Roger, Hope this note finds you both well and safe. Do think Roger could do a little video on the 12 amp and 30amp boxes. How the install went how do you go from the 12 to 30. Does that mean all your lights are 12v? We have wired home additions but this RV stuff seams to wiggle are brains, We just love your trailer home. We purchased a 6 x 12. Waiting for dealer to deliver only to have them sell it to another person. Arghhhh. Starting over. Thanks BEE

Hi Bee! So sorry about your trailer misfortune. Hopefully the next order works out.

Roger is the electrician in the family so I will talk to him about making a video. I’ll send you a follow-up email. Thanks for checking out our build.

Hi – wondering if you would share your source for the trailer and if you would consider selling the plans for your project? Congratulations on your beautiful camper.

Hi Erika! Thanks so much for checking out our camper and for your nice comment. I would definitely consider selling the plans. Let me look into it and I’ll get back to you. Thanks again!

After seeing your videos, my husband and I are discussing how we could do this. Were you able to drill into the wood walls to mount the bed and kitchen cabinets or did you have to use an adhesive? We weren’t sure how long the screws would need to be so you didn’t pierce the metal on the outside.

Hi Amy! Thanks so much for watching our videos! Everything that we mounted in the trailer, the bed, the cabinets, etc., were secured with screws. I can’t really tell you the length because it depends on the thickness of the wood, the thickness of the wall and the space between the wall and outer skin of the trailer. We made sure to use extra care when securing a piece that required us to screw into the wall. It was nerve-wracking at times but I’m happy to say that we didn’t pierce the skin of the trailer once. Let me know if you have any other questions. 🙂

Do you have a Video or Blog post focusing on the actual build of the shower? We are getting ready to do a similar shower / bathroom build in our living quarter horse trailer and are looking for specifics on how to do this. Love your trailer conversion!!

Thanks Amanda! We don’t have a post up right now but I am working on it, trying to get all the details included. Sorry about that.

Hi Kristi and Roger!

I absolutely love this conversion and am going to get a camper as well! I cannot wait to start. Do you mind sharing how much the total renovation cost you?

Hi Eman! Thanks so much for checking out our conversion and for your nice comment. Our complete conversion has cost us around $13K, which includes the cost of the trailer and the materials to build it. Hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. Best of luck on your build!

Wow great job and the Price & Quality! Win, win!

Plumbing question. How do you flush your toilet or shower. Do you have a water holding tank and pump? Gray/black water, where does it go?

We don’t have holding tanks. We are either hooked up to sewer at a campground or we use our portable tank. We have a video that explains all of this if you want to check it out. https://youtu.be/AzYc0aK0yAI

We did a trailer conversion as well and love how it turned out! We use it mostly for dry camping and want to do another that includes a holding tank and water heater. I would love to see how you addressed these issues in your beautiful rv!

Hi Sharon! Thanks for stopping in and taking a look at our ctc. We actually don’t have any holding tanks in our trailer, we either camp at full hook-up campgrounds or take a portable tank. As for the water heater, we just use a small 7 gallon electric water heater. We were going to do a tankless but this one has worked out well for us so we stuck with it. Hope this helps.

Hi! I love your conversion. How much did it end up weighing and what type of car/truck do you pull it with?

Hi Katherine. The trailer weighs about 5000 pounds after the conversion and we pull it with a Ford F250.

This is beautiful!! We are building a camper from scratch, 7’ x 10’, similar layout but ours will not have a bathroom. I love how you decorated yours!

Thanks so much, Melanie! Best of luck with your build.

Very nice work you both did! One thing I can’t tell – are the barn-doors not functional in the completed build, or is there some space there and its a storage area, or?

Yes, it’s a storage area. A very useable space. I added a photo to the post but there’s more info in the video that’s linked in the post.

Really nice! Was all this cheaper then getting a pre-made camper? It looks absolutely beautiful but it looks very expensive.

Thanks Jason. Yes, it was way cheaper than getting a pre-made camper, plus the quality is much higher. It is a lot of work though.

It’s great that you described your whole cargo trailer conversion process. My wife and I are interested in buying a trailer for our camping adventures, but we don’t think we have the same type of commitment and skills as you and your husband did with your plumbing and all. That’s why we think we’ll look for a custom-made one next year.

Hi! We’re are prepping our camper floor to install a vinyl plank floor. We had to repair the sub floor due to water damage and have removed the base cabinets and bed frame. I see that you painted under the bed frame, but what about under the cabinets? If you laid planks before installing the cabinets, did you screw down the cabinets through the vinyl planks? If so have you had any problems with the vinyl shifting?

Hi Lana.So sorry for the delay in my response. I was out of the office. My recommendation for painting the floor under the cabinets is to do it. We are currently building a new CTC and are painting all raw wood before we install anything. As for screwing down the cabinets through the vinyl planks, we did do that and have had no issues. We are going to do the same with the new trailer we are building. Hope this helps. Thanks. Kristi

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