It’s easier than ever to buy the camper you want. Someone somewhere in the world most likely produced it, and the internet made it easier to get hold of it. But Chesapeake Light Craft has you covered if you want to do something by hand. The company, which has spent 25 years offering DYI wooden boat kits, also offers a wooden tear camper that you can build yourself.
The basic kit has everything you need to build a camper, including plywood molds, fiberglass, and epoxy kits. Chesapeake Light Craft keeps this kit as simple as possible so that even an amateur can finish the camper, ship pre-cut pieces, and all the necessary mounting hardware.
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Teardrop Camping is perfect for those looking to upgrade from a tent, providing a sheltered place to sleep and basic amenities. The Chesapeake Light Craft offers several upgrades to its camper, including a kitchen and storage box – which you have to build like any other camper. A simple kitchen has one stove, a cutting board, and plenty of storage for condiments, dishes, and other cooking utensils. The company also offers an electrical system that is housed in the kitchen.
Inside, the sleeping area is the size of a queen bed, comfortable for two adults, and able to accommodate people over 6 feet tall. A 12-volt fan is available, four “mushroom” vents, and a hatch can provide ventilation. The foam layer helps prevent interior condensation, but the cabin is pretty basic. Upgrades include an electrical control panel, interior LED lighting, radio, 12-volt accessory port, and more.
Chesapeake Light Craft designs the camper to fit any number of trailers, or you can purchase one from the company. One of the more significant improvements is the integrated cargo carrier that sits under the camper. It offers a large pull-out drawer at the back and doors on the side to access the space under the camper.
The basic kit regularly retails for $2,995, with a pantry and storage box for $469 and $369, respectively. The integrated cargo carrier is $1,640, and additional components such as an interior headliner, roof ventilation kit with fan, and mushroom vet range from $49. up to $365.
