@@KandiKlover I agree. Smaller should mean much less $$$, but it does come across as a yuppy fad. "Look how small our trailer is and we can cook outside". I would rather just build my own.
I’ve thought about building my own so it can grow with my needs. With a 4x8 at that price I think I’ve changed my mind. Great addition to the Hiker line. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Good point. That goes in line with my initial statement. Even if you and I were to try and build this ourselves there is no way we could do it for that price. They are working in volumes of material and industry discounts that we just can't get our hands on. With lumber and component prices today, sometimes it just makes more sense to get one, like this Hiker, built for us.
Also another great point. We have had so many people over the years tell us they can do better. Well, I have seen a lot of homebuilts over the years as well. Most are definitely not better. But, I have seen a couple and those usually end up costing them much more than they anticipated.
"We give them a canvas, they create the art with their trailer" - what an awesome sentiment! This got me thinking and I resonate with it because they're empowering their customers to create a camper that's perfect for them instead of trying to build an expensive and heavy camper that tries to be all things to all people.
I couldn't agree with this statement more. You will hear me talking about this a lot in the future. Beings my family chose to go the bare bones route as well. There is something about making your trailer "your trailer" that is hard to beat.
I’m not in the market for a camper right now but I love watching other peoples builds and custom setups and just hearing the passion behind this product makes me just want to buy one. Good people, good product
Love hearing this! I was hoping the community would see this the way I do. I think it was a VERY needed addition to the small camper market. Light, affordable, practical, but still good quality.
Good to see Hiker working hard to keep their trailer prices affordable. As he said, trailer prices have gone crazy. I like the fact they used a power station for the camper power. Good for Hiker for letting owners come back and get upgrades. Brakes are always a good idea on any trailer. The gear hauler was pretty cool.
I agree that two doors is necessary. I travel with a friend sometimes and when you are both of a certain age…a middle of the night bathroom trip is likely. I think my homemade kitchen box will fit in this. I can rig a tarp but one of those small Kammok awnings over the back would be great! I am slowly narrowing what my needs are; thanks to you, I think I could go quite simple. It helps being a retired backpacker! 😉
I'm right with you. I am also realizing my family likes simple as well. These bare bones trailers are making more and more sense to me everyday. I see them as a blank canvas.
Man I like that guy! You can tell how enthusiastic he is about showing their offer - which is pretty cool! Light weight, big use of space, versatility… I like it. The other toy is pretty good too, kind of what I’m building 🙂 Thanks for bringing this cool stuff amigo! And I’m very grateful for the conversions you do to make it easier to me. Gracias!
Glad you are enjoying the conversions and the videos mi amigo. I almost started building one of these gear hauling/expedition trailers as well. I really think they are very special trailers. So multi-use.
It's refreshing isn't it Greg? Thank goodness we have options like this in 2024. If all small camper companies chased the high priced teardrop/squaredrop market/bubble it would be pretty tough to stomach. So glad we have so many great options to choose from (luxury to barebones and everything in-between).
Thanks Drew! Kudos to Hiker on the path they are taking with their innovation, affordability and market expansion! Hope you and May can enjoy a cup of coffee on me! 😊
Brad, you are the man! Thank you so much. You are doing an incredible job of fueling our coffee addiction. Haha. We always appreciate the support Brad. As well as the friendship and inspiration.
Drew, thank you for asking about the kayak trailer! There's so many out there and yet again Hiker looks at those prices and just says "hold my beer, I can do a lot more at those prices". I can not wait to see what they do in the future for kayaks and camping! My wife and I love camping and love kayaking and piling everything on the truck is a mess. Please keep an eye on this project because if they design one to allow the kayaks to lay flat (so all my fishing gear can stay attached and just back the trailer in for loading/unloading) I'm going to be very excited!
For more than 1 person I really think 5×8 is the minimum. For just 1, 4x8 is totally perfect. That aside...these remind me a lot of my own (homemade) trailer. Aside from the fact that mine is all wood and weighs a million tons! Less is more. The starting canvas to modify as you go/grow is the joy in small trailering. You have featured so many trailers with so many nifty bells and whistles...but this, for me, beats them all. It is why I decided to build my own...starting with a bare bones box then adding what I need as I go. It is a ton of fun to plan and execute upgrades each off season in anticipation of the spring/summer road trips.
I just bought a Hiker about a month ago after years of research and trying to figure out which would work best for me. I got lots of great advice watching your channel and I’m having a great time getting to know my new Hiker. Thanks for all the work you put into your videos.
Welcome to the club! You said it perfectly "getting to know your new Hiker." It takes a while. It is a bit of a dance and it is ever changing. But the more you dial it in, the better it gets.
I have a couple buddies with the original Hiker 4X8’s, who camp exclusively off road. The trailers are fairing better than their small SUV tow vehs. Every year they’ve added something to customize the camper. Very easy trailers to work on. I had been seeing few Hikers in full service campgrounds, just in dry camps or Fed/State Forest camps. This year however I’ve seen one in every service and dry campground I’ve been through. They are getting popular.
This is so neat to to hear. Thank you for sharing this. And I have seen similar things with the campgrounds. Not just Hiker, but every mid to high producing small camper manufacturer. I have been so surprised how many I see on the road lately.
I was over at Deception Pass SP, WA this weekend and saw one of these! Now I'm sitting in the laundry matt parking lot watching your video and there goes another one! Maybe it's the same one. I sure do like these Hikers for size, personal adaptability and cost! Thanks!
Yeah, the Sylvan Sport Go was the first thing to come to mind when I saw the Hiker Camper gear loft. The Go doesn't have an actuator but it will haul an ATV. But it is also 15 grand. So, we shall see. You of course know someone is going to complain about price even if the price were 5 dollars. A 5x8 enclosed trailer with rear swing out and side front door for self conversion starts at roughly $3350 and weighs 1025 pounds. But without electric brakes, without a torsion axle, without a fan and without connections for shore power or solar connections or interior lighting. Not to mention without interior finishing. Could someone with the tools and the skills finish one of those trailers to a higher level for the same money? Yes. But most of those commenting here can't or won't but like to complain anyway. Folks have to remember that this is a business and in a business you have to not only supply the product but keep the lights on and the employees paid as well as feeding your own family as the business owner. You can't sell everything at cost. Because selling at cost in a business means you are selling at a loss. But, hey, any of you out there who think you could honestly build and sell a better equipped and built (yes, the welds were actually sloppy, hopefully they get better) trailer for less money and warrant and service it for years to come I'm waiting. I am one of those people with the tools and the skill to build out a cargo trailer but I doubt I would ever do so. I prefer the build out in my SUV and not having to tow anything. But if I were to buy a trailer a Hiker 5x8 or 5x9 would be a massive head start for a total self build out for the least money possible on a great travel and adventure platform. Don't think the 4x8 is quite big enough for me though.
@@PlayingwithSticks Thanks. Yeah, I know this is the internet and complainers with little background or knowledge of any subject they chime in on are rampant but every once in a while I get tired of the incessant foolish comments. Especially the people who say manufacturers of things like this trailer are trying to "rip people off." These are toys. No one needs one to live their life. They aren't shelter, food or life saving medicine. They are products for people who have disposable income and happen to want to spend this extra income on a small travel trailer. So since no one is in need of such an item and no one is being forced to buy them there is no way any of these companies can rip you off unless they don't deliver what they say they will. I also tire of the people who have zero business acumen who think the price a product should be sold for should equal the total of the parts it's made of and not a dime more. Yeah, forget about every aspect that went into acquisition, assembly, transport, warranty, delivery, research and development, taxes and insurance, rent and having some left for the owner of the company to eat with. But this attitude that everything is a rip off is pervasive these days. I remember when the C8 Corvette hit dealer lots and dealers were asking $20,000 in markup and guys were saying this was making them unaffordable and they should be banned from "ripping people off.". Okay, sure pal, you were standing in line, check in hand, eager to pay that affordable $70,000 MSRP but that darn dealer marked it up 20K so you had to go back to walking everywhere. Okay, so some companies are asking far more than an item needs to sell for to cover all the aforementioned costs plus a generous profit. However, just because you want something but can't afford it is not the definition of rip off. As far as things like this trailer go, well, I know a lot of people who routinely spend a dollar trying to save a dime and many of the commenters here and on countless other channels sound like those folks. They can always do it better for less. Maybe. Perhaps as a one off build for themselves without paying anyone for labor or buying tools they didn't already have. Even then they probably can't but they aren't going to let a lack of research and reality get in the way of a good baseless opinion. And they certainly can't if trying to do so as a viable business model. I know as the creator it is frowned upon to review reality with some of your viewer base but I have nothing to lose from doing so.
Good base level trailer that is scalable and customizable. This is now at the top of my list. Fantastic. At this pricing point I have been looking at cargo trailers to convert.
Drew, I can't thank you enough for this video. I wanted a mid to full feature trailer but I'll have to wait at least least three years, to get it the way I wanted. Both trailer speak loudly to me. The old man doesn't know me but he was sweet talking to me. He had me at "Hello and $5,000" I can do most of the modifications or add-ons myself. 1. I camp approx. 15 times/year and I would love the get off the ground. The teardrop would also allow me to camp early or late winter. I already own most of the galley equipment and two Ecoflow batteries. The only big ticket item would be a 12V fridge. Therefore, I don't have to load and unload SUV with the essential equipment. I just leave inside. Almost grab and go trailer. 2. The Gear Loft will be great for my 15.5 Ft fishing kayak. My only concern would be if I could fit my Thule roof cargo box and a metal tool box.
This made my day. I love hearing that this video really resonated with you. I got to tell you on this end it feels really good to hear that. I'm with you on the extended shoulder season camping. That was one of the big reasons we got our first teardrop trailer in Alaska. The summer was so short, but we weren't ready to be done. Luckily the 12v fridges are much more affordable then they used to be. Most of us don't need the best, just a nice mid-range fridge with a Dan Foss/Secop compressor. I would think the roof box and metal toolbox would have plenty of space. That gear hauler looked kind of small on video because I shot it on a wide angle lens. But in real life it would appear a bit bigger. 99% of our videos I shoot on a lens that looks close to the true eye. But, in this video I wanted people to see the whole trailer at all times. I probably should have mentioned that.
Other brands need to take note from hiker trailers. They focus on affordability, quality and customer satisfaction. A lot of these other brands seem to have issues with affordability. I’m glad to see a company like this making affordable trailers. Moves like this will push the other companies to start figuring out ways to make a quality trailer at a better price.
@@PlayingwithSticks same here. We’re definitely starting to see a shift. The voice said it all when he said “some of these prices.” He even knows. That tells me he and the team at hiker care.
Almost as light as our 5x8. For the DIYers who like to customize their rig, this seems to be a decent blank canvas. The telescoping tongue is so useful. We've done that for some custom orders. The other side benefit is that the tongue is removable for storage too.
Interesting. Your 5x8 kit is lighter than this huh? Mark, I would love to know where you are finding the weight savings. We have never really highlighted the low weight of your trailers. Sounds like a potential idea you and I need to look at some time.
@@PlayingwithSticks Ha! Well, people will build them out however they want but if they're built exactly to spec it should be 743 lbs (give or take a few oz). Weight savings is in the frame (not made for off road use) and the profile cuts material and wheel/tire weight is likely less. 20 years of design tweaks and material testing slowly refines it too. My guesses when doing a vs with Hiker. I'm impressed with their build.
Thanks Mark! I remember when we first really got into teardrops everything I took out was under 1,000lbs. Now, everything seems to be over 1,000lbs. I understand technology has changed and our understanding of teardrop builds have changed, but I don't know what that actually means. Why was a trailer form the same company 700 some pounds in 2017 and now that same trailer weighs 900lbs. Where did that 200lbs come from. I'm usually assuming it is frame and axles. Does that sound right?
@@PlayingwithSticks Frame, axles, and probably popular features that Customers Want. At some point, there are so many customer requests for something that it just makes sense to make those things a standard part of production. There is also a significant shift in customer interest to the off-road stuff. As a life long offroader, I appreciate it but I still feel most people take them to campgrounds and rarely offroad (just like their vehicles). There is a certain look or faddish style that is in play that could add to the weight too.
Hello quality minimalist at a super budget friendly rate! This speaks to my family, as a person who loves the simplicity of tent camping, but pays for it with sleep/body pain. Slap a rooftop tent on, and its perfect for my family(or have the kids in a tent), and for a 1/2 or 1/3 price of others.
This is a very budget friendly trailer, if you keep it budget friendly. in all honestly 4,999 entry, you could load it down with dollar store products, walmart air or foam mattresses, or heck, a Futon Japanese floor matress, that you can roll up then have the entire floor useful during the day if you need it. Hmm, Futon, small Kotatsu, and an inexpensive tatami chair or 2.. and it becomes a home away from home.. then add in a cheep little single burner stove for cooking and you are good to go on a budget adventure. umm drew, look up the following "Costway 6-Position Adjustable Floor Chair " and think of putting a pair of those in there for day time use. with the Kotatsu between them.
Where do you find this stuff! I need to subscribe to whatever newsfeed you have. I picture decking this out the way Lynn did with her Road Toad. Her trailer felt like a little home on wheels and it was just thrift store items and walmart. It doesn't take a whole lot. Thanks for pointing this out Jennifer! As you know...you rock!
@@PlayingwithSticks hehe, so you like that little costway floor chair? its a western take on the japanese Tatami floor chairs.. these things would work great in short tear drops. giving you a much "bigger" feeling, much like being in a full sized recliner while still in the tear drop, with a little tablet playing movies for you. lots of little tablets you can buy for around 100 bucks.
We are going old school and bought a basic portable dvd player this year. Grabbing movies as we leave from the library and the kids are loving it. So far we only allow them on the road, I haven't given in yet at the campsite. Luckily though they also haven't asked. These boys are still enjoying the adventures for the adventure.
@@PlayingwithSticks i thought old schole would be 8mm projector :) that said, i'm still talking budget wise... download a movie or 3 before you leave... thoug you can get cheep portable dvd players too. so yeah that works as cost effectice. though again, sitting in the floor relcyner, sipping coffee, reading a book as the thunderstorm rolls across the mountain... listening to the rain on the roof.
I want the galley door hinged on the top. That is a deal killer for me, regardless of how great everything else is. They don't need struts, just fixed props that won't put anything like the pressure on components.
I built my small micro camper van with this exact design of the back counter and passthrough. If you search hard you might find a van for private sale with under 60k miles for that price.
For that price I could buy two one for the adults and one for the kids and pull doubles. 😂😂😂😂 This definitely a great entry level trailer for one to two people. I like the back to the roots approach, a place to store and haul camping gear and ready made bed/tent once your destination is reached.
When I first saw the new one, I thought the tent on top were fold down doors to make it a teardrop and then fold them back up to haul your toys. Now that’s an idea
I think I wouldn't have known any different. It felt great for us, because we didn't have anything to compare it to. But, now after being in a 5x8 it would be hard to go back.
Did I miss another one from you? Sorry Brian. Like you, I've been playing a lot of catch up lately. Another season of transitions. Haha. Sorry Brian. I will make sure to pull that email up right now.
@@PlayingwithSticks it's just an empty shell, there's nothing in it to justify that price, and I know for a fact you can build something better than this for less than that, I know because I helped my neighbor do it once except we could stand up inside his and it had all the basics you need for off-grid adventures, granted he's retired and has all the time in the world to do things like that but I sure learned a lot helping him
@Rocky-or4rz I'm not saying I don't believe you. Love the story you just shared, I bet that was a great experience and a good way to bond. But I am saying you did this before covid. We have a number of videos on UA-cam if you want to see, that share cost breakdown of what a teardrop trailer actually costs to build with these crazy lumber, material, and component prices. Again not saying you're wrong, just saying times have changed. Manufacturers who build at scale like this are able to build a better and more affordable camper than any of us can. That is unless we're patient and we look around for scrap material and used parts. There's not many doing it, just hiker, runaway, and tiny camper company. Maybe there's another I left out, but all the other builds out there. I guarantee you can do it for cheaper. They have quite the price hike.
And sorry about my original comment, I went and read it. It sounded very condescending. I get this comment quite often. And typically it's from guys who are just throwing out words without nothing to back it. I appreciate that you actually can back yours up.
Thanks, Drew, this was a great video! And I’m really glad you like this, the con about the storage isn’t a con for me, I like having options! And I noticed the side opening instead of the opening up, I remember you saying something about that in one of your posts. The gas struts slowly moving down. Anyway, I’m loving this little trailer! And I have to watch it again because now I can’t remember if plug ins were included. Brain fog, it’s real 😅🩷
I'm with you on the options. I used to think I liked cabinets and drawers. Well, I still like them. But, I prefer now to just make my own. Either modular or stationary. That way I can build around my needs. And yes, you are a great listener. The gas struts slowly move down (lose their holding power), meaning need replaced eventually. And then you have this problem I mentioned...The pressure the gas springs themselves put on the rear corners of the camper eventually will push that seam apart. Yes, it can be repaired, but you always have to keep your eye on it. He was kind of vague with the plugs. Basically what I took away is that it is wired for power stations or battery, but I am not sure if it is wired for plugs. Obviously the power station would have it's own plugs (which is how we use our new barebones teardrop), but I am not sure if you have to upgrade to hard wired plugs. My guess would be yes, but my brain fog is setting in as well. I read all this on their website and now can't recall any of it. Haha.
@@PlayingwithSticksok, I emailed them, they haven’t responded yet. So, I just looked up the website and there is a wiring harness, 110v AC shore power, plug, front USB and a volt meter. That answers our questions, right?
@ramonapuckett3059 oh wow, I wasn't expecting that. Thank you for taking the time to share this. I've been really surprised at everything you get on this barebones build.
Would like to see a future Gear Loft model that can hold a big motorcycle at the bottom. Foldable or detachable ramp, actuator on LH & RH side of the platform.
I think these go head on against Sylvan Sport Go and Go Easy trailers. Not as light but a hard sided trailer and without the load and unload process that the Go pop up tent has. Also more longevity. Not bothered by the bare bones version. Especially for someone shifting from tent life. They will have all that gear that is likely stored in bins that can be pulled out the back. Quick kitchen set up. Same thing with the outdoor lights and propane. I had those in my tent camping gear. Even with the Bean, I put on my head lamp when headed outside after dark and rarely turn on the exterior light. Different variations for the gear hauler when compared to the Sylvan Sport version. All for a lower price. These are great options for anyone looking to “upgrade” their camping life.
I really love my Hiker Trailer EOR to carry my motorcycle. I love that they made a mini toy hauler. I could definitely see myself getting one of those as well down the line for small trips.
@@PlayingwithSticks they don’t advertise it but I post videos on it on my channel. When I bought mine I asked about the possibility of doing it and with a smaller bike it’s possible
Hey Drew. Thanks for showing this to us. This is a possibility for me. Add a minimal solar. Might be just really be good ffor starters. especially since we can add on other items .
Right!!!! Sorry about that, user error. I filmed in the wrong mode on accident and it was all unusable. The only interior you saw was video I pulled off of hiker's website.
At 8:20 you mentioned that you can now pretty much predict the failure points on a teardrop based on its age. Are you going to do a special on that? I'm early stages of a foamie build and would love to know what to look out for or where to reinforce the design or avoid certain features.
What's the best way to reach out to you? I'm building a 5' x 8' foamie sheathed in truck bed liner that I think you might want to check out. Seamless, rot proof, super insulated, galvanized trailer frame, and less than 600 lbs. Would love to show it to you when finished.
budget food stores- Lol, you can even do budget "MRE's." for camping there are tons of products to limit what you have to bring. BEN'S ORIGINAL BISTRO EXPRESS - verity of flavors, microwavesable rice packs BUT you can also cook them buy leaving them in boiled water. Course you have stuff like Knorr which is just add water. Dollar stores also have Pasta Pouches, can get them in several different packs, cook in boiling water again :) Idea's like this let you get quick meals and sides that you can have without needing a freezer or fridge or cooler. great for 1-2 day camping trips, or just leaving in your camper in case of emergancy. darn things last a long time and are pretty light.
This is what I ate before I met May. I think that is why she married me. She thought I looked so miserable. The poor guy never eats real food. Most would call this camp food. I called it my everyday fuel. Haha. I always tell her I was quite happy. But, the food we have today is a big step up!
@@PlayingwithSticks yep, but for this, it also works very well with the minimalist build, you don't need a fridge, you don't need cooler, don't need dishes, pots and pans... just 1 pot to boil water in. and a water container. you could even cook these using an Esbit stove (just not inside). this cuts down on the initial expense again to get started.
I know you just got your new trailer can you make a video where you stor everything and how fridge does in front, with mud and dirt and rocks . Would also like to know all the extras and why thank you
You know, I would love to do that, but I probably won't make that video for quite some time. I really want to get to know the trailer before I suggest anything. In a month or two, just send me an email. I can send you pictures and give you a little write up of what I am currently doing. At the moment I don't have it quite dialed in, but by November I should have a pretty good idea.
@@PlayingwithSticks thank you I’ve been thinking of the same trailer just worried about fridge being where it is and heating and cooling I live in Arizona
@michaelrobinson7632 That's a valid concern. I mean, obviously you're going to need a weather sealed cooler like the iceco that we're using. But in all honesty, it really comes down to how you use your cooler. Right now we're going to run the iceco on the tongue, but I'm not sure if I'm going to use it there forever. Our family only opens the fridge about one time just right before we make the food. So keeping it in the tow vehicle really doesn't add that much more of a hassle. I always thought it was neat to have it in your galley kitchen, but lately I've been wondering how often do I actually benefit from it being so close to me. Like I said this season I'll be running it on the tongue, but I think next season I'll definitely experiment with it in my tow vehicle and using the tongue for other storage.
Exactly. That is their competition. Very similar trailers. Also similar build process. But, a few years ago Runaway switched to composite so now they are a bit different in design vs the past.
While aluminum is lighter than steel for the same profile, welds reduce the strength of the material in the heat affected zone to about 50% of it's pre-weld condition. I'd strongly prefer steel for a chassis application. The downside is the need for corrosion protection, which for the budget would be either a single stage alkyd or acrylic enamel over a primer. Hot dipped galvanizing is great, but again quite costly. If you have a good monocoque 'box', the torsion axle can mount directly to it, and so can the tongue, removing the need for large members under the box. I'd envision two layers of hand laid 6 oz fiberglass cloth with epoxy on both sides of 1" or 1.5" XPS foam. Strong, lightweight, no seams with screws, butyl tape and materials with different expansion ratios trying to 'break' itself.
What you are describing is essentially what Charles and I did with our trailer. And it was a big trailer. Mostly carbon fiber and a little Kevlar, but like you said monocoque. It is definitely doable.
“Starting at” the diamond plates on each side is an extra 100 each , 100 for the shelf , 200 for cabinet doors.. this is not the base model, roof rack 300, awning over 1000
I wonder if it comes in other colors similar to their other models? I would assume we get color choices. BUT, many companies only have a limited colors for their budget models, so maybe that is how they are offering this as well.
Very interesting camping options. I like the possibilities. Do you keep on hand, stock, the various models and options, or how long will it take for a purchase to come in??
I love your channel and I love this company. As soon as I’m done paying off my ex-wife for the house I plan on buying one of these next year so I can travel with my two daughters. Any recommendation as to which one I should go with with two young girlsand myself?
The more i look at it, the more i think, this trailer would work great with Japanese furniture... it also makes me wonder why other teardrops aren't used with japanese furnature. Japanese floor sofa's and Sectional sofa's would fit in so many of these. Using futon floor mats instead of beds, and rolling them up during the day. Nakai Mokko- Tatami folding chairs, and a folding table would work inside most small trailers. the options become endless on how to configure... and the fact that you could change at camp because of how small most of the stuff folds up. pull out the bed slide the table and chairs where the bed was stored... Using existing japanese items in the tear drops, with maybe 1 or 2 small changes in how storage works in them, could really open up each tiny teardrop into a customizable home on wheels rather then just a bed and breakfast place.
i want a hiker trailer but my needs are different. I want a 5x10 trailer with built in bathroom with different shower and toilet inside. then just a fridge and kitchen and some room. The top roof will be a hard top tent that im building with a 240 watts on top off the roof tent
"you can't build a trail in 2024 with this quality at a better price". I'm Romani, (my family and I are the last builders of Authentic Roma Vardo's in the world) "hold my beer".
I thought this looked like a cheap alternative but they're way too expensive for the size..... It's only "affordable" if you buy literally just an empty trailer which you can find cheaper and bigger elsewhere. Every little convenience cost extra, a LOT extra.... Roof vent with a fan $450, propane heater almost $2000, $150 just for a place to mount the propane tank, $600 for a powered cooler, hell a spare tire is $225 and then $175 for a place to mount it..... Want a rooftop tent? Almost $2000, 8 gallons of water? $550. They're way too much unless you just have money to blow and desperately need something super light weight
Again, in 2024 we can't build a trailer of this size for this price. Meaning DIY I've seen it done time and time again. But you're right, if you want to add all those components, this trailer is going to cost you a lot of money. I like to remind people that those are wants, when it comes to camping needs. All we really need is a bed on wheels.
Sort of. You will see it in the next episode. But, in terms of a review. I probably won't do one for another year. I really want to put it through the paces and get my organizational systems dialed in before I talk about it again. But, next week will give you a good idea of where I am heading with it. The video is about all the components I am adding.
Great. When you previously reviewed the Stock 2.0 you mentioned how you'd like the air fan side mounted to keep the outer skin as monolithic as possible. I agreed with that idea, but wanted an A/C unit in place of the fan, and an inside propane heater. I thought Bean could add a simple pass-through propane coupler near the Discata mount.
Yes, I would like to see more companies add a coupler for just a simple portable ecoflow Wave 2. When it comes to the propane heaters like a propex, those are typically vented underneath. Which also has some of its own problems, but at least it's not up on the shell.
@@PlayingwithSticks if the lifting mechanism was similar to a tent trailer with cables it would be out of the way, by using pins to secure it might be better by freeing the space below. Lots of solutions and options with this one.
@@andrewanderson5297 It looked like the center lifting mechanism had a pull pin at the top, so when not being needed to raise or lower the roof they could just pull the pin and lay the lift down flat on the floor. If I was just seeing things though, that is the first modification that I would add to it.
Great point! and I think Bob will figure that out as the need arises. A lot of the engineers out there try to bypass the cable systems to reduce moving parts. Basically the more simple they can design these lift mechanisms the less chance of failure and the easier for us to field repair.
I think you saw that right. You would be able to move that actuator. If I had a 300lb tent on top and maybe some additional gear I would probably need that actuator most of the time. For me I like keeping things simple. I wouldn't mind a low geared hand crank system. Yes, it would take more time, but I could raise it myself and not have to worry about motors and more complicated field repair.
I've been looking at the Hiker Trailers for a while and this is a great addition to their line up. All the forums are filled with "get the biggest trailer you can" comments but I'm a solo camper, so I don't need all that space. I'm looking for room for a twin mattress and a place where I can store my kitchen gear. Do you see any real downsides to this small size? I've been backpacking and tent camping, so having a hard shell around me is a luxury.
Have you seen Lynn's road toad video yet? While it isn't a Hiker, it is a great example of what you can do with one of these small trailers. Here is that video if you haven't seen it yet. ua-cam.com/video/FZEy_PbIp4A/v-deo.html In terms of downsize, we loved ours before stepping into a 5x8. We honestly felt it was perfect. Now though after being in a 5x8 it would be a little harder going backwards, but that is just 1 foot-itis. Again, I don't think we would be any "happier" in the 5x8 vs the 4x8 it is just a bit more luxury, but both get us to the same destinations.
@@PlayingwithSticks I've watched Lynn's video several times. It's so cool what she's done with her trailer. Looks cozy and functional. (I've been watching your videos for years, but almost never on a computer so I can't normally comment). Keep up the great work!
Technically a squaredrop. As for your wish, the closest thing I know to this would be the Rouser from Runaway. But I think it may be a 6x8. It is standing height and fairly affordable.
@@PlayingwithSticksthat is interesting and helpful, thank you. One nice feature (among others) I noticed about the Hiker Trailer is the swing out rear door with gear pass-through.
I think those are great features as well. And features that come typically on higher dollar trailers. The only downfall of the swing out door is that means you get no coverage from the sun and rain from it being overhead.
Sweet for continually upgrade and mods by budget ability....can two e-mtb (55 lbs each) be fitted on a trailer roof rack...or is the roof fan in the way?
Thanks for another great video! I really like this trailer, but I am wondering how the aluminum frame would handle jeep trails, logging roads, and other not too extreme off roads over time.
In my opinion I think it really would just come down to how you drive. If you pick good lines, take your time, keep your trailer from going airborne/dropped off ledges I think it would hold up just fine. You don't have a lot of weight. Typically light trailers like this do not have an a-frame chassis and the frame only covers part of the trailer. The fact that you have an a-frame tongue and a chassis that covers the majority of the trailer, I think this will be up for more than most of us realize.
Unless I missed it, why no mention that Hiker sold a basic 4x8 3-4 years ago for about $2900 starting price? This seems like an upgraded rerelease after emphasizing higher end/higher priced models the past few years. Adding some basic options and delivery fees will probably get this trailer north of $8K for buyers in western states (the current owner closed the Colorado factory and added delivery fees of about $1500 to a few random pickup locations out west). I think Hiker makes a great product and I recommend them often, but doesn't make sense for a some of us. ua-cam.com/video/ho4jgArMurs/v-deo.htmlsi=pgkB5i23O3uZdz9O
The older model 4x8's were stripped down to almost nothing. They didn't have any electrical, no brakes, basic steel frame, only 1 door, no read door as standard, and were as close to a wooden box on a basic frame as possible. We've seen the value in including as many standard options, while allowing the customization for customers, at a fair and low price point. This re-imagined and redesigned 4x8 is very different compared to the older stripped down models of years past. We believe in adding value to our units, not just churning out the cheapest products possible. Hope this helps clarify some of the differences, not to mention how much cheaper everything was 3-4 years ago.
My guess is it would do just find if we are talking forest service/trailheads. It appears to be a pretty robust aluminum frame. An a-frame tongue and the frame is spread throughout the trailer. In my opinion the seams of the cabin would probably separate before you have a chassis issue. Or maybe at the same time, but both are pretty unlikely if you take it easy and pick good lines.
I'm not a big fan of Aluminum frames and I really do not care for the welds I saw on the undercarriage of this trailer. I do like the small compact go anywhere trailer though.
I think you are about the 5th person to note this. I don't think it is a compromise. I think they will take your feedback and make it right. A compromise is usually in materials, they can just hire a new welder, train up their current one, or send the chassis out of house to be constructed. Thanks for the feedback, I know they will appreciate it.
FINALLY!! A small/light camper that’s actually affordable (and customizable) that doesn’t start at $20k and go north of $70k. I’m interested!
Right?!!! I agree, this is very refreshing to see.
Still a terrible price for a tiny pod. Delusional fad yuppies of modernity lmao
@@KandiKlovercry harder
After you add everything shown in this video, it's close to $10k...so there's that...
@@KandiKlover I agree. Smaller should mean much less $$$, but it does come across as a yuppy fad. "Look how small our trailer is and we can cook outside". I would rather just build my own.
6’7” person here and it’s almost impossible to find a teardrop long enough. Thank you!
I see your problem. Most teardrops are 6 ft 6 in in terms of body length
I’ve thought about building my own so it can grow with my needs. With a 4x8 at that price I think I’ve changed my mind. Great addition to the Hiker line. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Good point. That goes in line with my initial statement. Even if you and I were to try and build this ourselves there is no way we could do it for that price. They are working in volumes of material and industry discounts that we just can't get our hands on. With lumber and component prices today, sometimes it just makes more sense to get one, like this Hiker, built for us.
@@PlayingwithSticks and with my limited skills, the quality would never compare to what they have done here.
Also another great point. We have had so many people over the years tell us they can do better. Well, I have seen a lot of homebuilts over the years as well. Most are definitely not better. But, I have seen a couple and those usually end up costing them much more than they anticipated.
@@PlayingwithSticks you could if you did some of it with re-claimed stuff etc. That's about the only way from my research as well.
This thing is a great base.
Finally, something us peasants can afford! Nice job Hiker!!!
Haha. So true! Love seeing these prices.
"We give them a canvas, they create the art with their trailer" - what an awesome sentiment!
This got me thinking and I resonate with it because they're empowering their customers to create a camper that's perfect for them instead of trying to build an expensive and heavy camper that tries to be all things to all people.
I couldn't agree with this statement more. You will hear me talking about this a lot in the future. Beings my family chose to go the bare bones route as well. There is something about making your trailer "your trailer" that is hard to beat.
I’m not in the market for a camper right now but I love watching other peoples builds and custom setups and just hearing the passion behind this product makes me just want to buy one. Good people, good product
This is awesome! Has all the functionality and style at price that doesn't break the budget. I'm impressed.
Love hearing this! I was hoping the community would see this the way I do. I think it was a VERY needed addition to the small camper market. Light, affordable, practical, but still good quality.
I picked up my 5X8 Highway Deluxe in April of this year. There have been hiccups, but Hiker's staff has been so helpful. I love mine ❤.
Good to see Hiker working hard to keep their trailer prices affordable. As he said, trailer prices have gone crazy. I like the fact they used a power station for the camper power. Good for Hiker for letting owners come back and get upgrades. Brakes are always a good idea on any trailer. The gear hauler was pretty cool.
As usual my friend, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. I appreciate it.
I like it. This is the true honest American business dealing that I have grown up believing them. Well done guys and thank you.
My maverick can haul 4k. I finally have the ability to haul.. now I need a quality trailer thats in my budget. This looks awesome
I love it. Perfect for me. I have been using a pickup bed with topper for the past 20 years. That's a significant upgrade for me.
I agree that two doors is necessary. I travel with a friend sometimes and when you are both of a certain age…a middle of the night bathroom trip is likely. I think my homemade kitchen box will fit in this. I can rig a tarp but one of those small Kammok awnings over the back would be great!
I am slowly narrowing what my needs are; thanks to you, I think I could go quite simple. It helps being a retired backpacker! 😉
I'm right with you. I am also realizing my family likes simple as well. These bare bones trailers are making more and more sense to me everyday. I see them as a blank canvas.
Man I like that guy! You can tell how enthusiastic he is about showing their offer - which is pretty cool!
Light weight, big use of space, versatility… I like it.
The other toy is pretty good too, kind of what I’m building 🙂
Thanks for bringing this cool stuff amigo!
And I’m very grateful for the conversions you do to make it easier to me. Gracias!
Glad you are enjoying the conversions and the videos mi amigo. I almost started building one of these gear hauling/expedition trailers as well. I really think they are very special trailers. So multi-use.
Love that guys approach. What a great owner and seems like a great company.
It's refreshing isn't it Greg? Thank goodness we have options like this in 2024. If all small camper companies chased the high priced teardrop/squaredrop market/bubble it would be pretty tough to stomach. So glad we have so many great options to choose from (luxury to barebones and everything in-between).
Thanks Drew! Kudos to Hiker on the path they are taking with their innovation, affordability and market expansion! Hope you and May can enjoy a cup of coffee on me! 😊
Brad, you are the man! Thank you so much. You are doing an incredible job of fueling our coffee addiction. Haha. We always appreciate the support Brad. As well as the friendship and inspiration.
mf just sent $10 for no reason
😂 Brad's a good friend of ours.
Did you not see how shitty the welds are?
Drew, thank you for asking about the kayak trailer! There's so many out there and yet again Hiker looks at those prices and just says "hold my beer, I can do a lot more at those prices". I can not wait to see what they do in the future for kayaks and camping! My wife and I love camping and love kayaking and piling everything on the truck is a mess. Please keep an eye on this project because if they design one to allow the kayaks to lay flat (so all my fishing gear can stay attached and just back the trailer in for loading/unloading) I'm going to be very excited!
For more than 1 person I really think 5×8 is the minimum. For just 1, 4x8 is totally perfect. That aside...these remind me a lot of my own (homemade) trailer. Aside from the fact that mine is all wood and weighs a million tons! Less is more. The starting canvas to modify as you go/grow is the joy in small trailering. You have featured so many trailers with so many nifty bells and whistles...but this, for me, beats them all. It is why I decided to build my own...starting with a bare bones box then adding what I need as I go. It is a ton of fun to plan and execute upgrades each off season in anticipation of the spring/summer road trips.
I just bought a Hiker about a month ago after years of research and trying to figure out which would work best for me. I got lots of great advice watching your channel and I’m having a great time getting to know my new Hiker. Thanks for all the work you put into your videos.
Welcome to the club! You said it perfectly "getting to know your new Hiker." It takes a while. It is a bit of a dance and it is ever changing. But the more you dial it in, the better it gets.
I have a couple buddies with the original Hiker 4X8’s, who camp exclusively off road. The trailers are fairing better than their small SUV tow vehs. Every year they’ve added something to customize the camper. Very easy trailers to work on.
I had been seeing few Hikers in full service campgrounds, just in dry camps or Fed/State Forest camps. This year however I’ve seen one in every service and dry campground I’ve been through. They are getting popular.
This is so neat to to hear. Thank you for sharing this. And I have seen similar things with the campgrounds. Not just Hiker, but every mid to high producing small camper manufacturer. I have been so surprised how many I see on the road lately.
I was over at Deception Pass SP, WA this weekend and saw one of these! Now I'm sitting in the laundry matt parking lot watching your video and there goes another one! Maybe it's the same one. I sure do like these Hikers for size, personal adaptability and cost! Thanks!
Small world huh! Sounds like a beautiful area you are in. I'm a bit jealous.
Deception Pass a favorite area!
Yeah, the Sylvan Sport Go was the first thing to come to mind when I saw the Hiker Camper gear loft. The Go doesn't have an actuator but it will haul an ATV. But it is also 15 grand. So, we shall see. You of course know someone is going to complain about price even if the price were 5 dollars. A 5x8 enclosed trailer with rear swing out and side front door for self conversion starts at roughly $3350 and weighs 1025 pounds. But without electric brakes, without a torsion axle, without a fan and without connections for shore power or solar connections or interior lighting. Not to mention without interior finishing. Could someone with the tools and the skills finish one of those trailers to a higher level for the same money? Yes. But most of those commenting here can't or won't but like to complain anyway. Folks have to remember that this is a business and in a business you have to not only supply the product but keep the lights on and the employees paid as well as feeding your own family as the business owner. You can't sell everything at cost. Because selling at cost in a business means you are selling at a loss. But, hey, any of you out there who think you could honestly build and sell a better equipped and built (yes, the welds were actually sloppy, hopefully they get better) trailer for less money and warrant and service it for years to come I'm waiting. I am one of those people with the tools and the skill to build out a cargo trailer but I doubt I would ever do so. I prefer the build out in my SUV and not having to tow anything. But if I were to buy a trailer a Hiker 5x8 or 5x9 would be a massive head start for a total self build out for the least money possible on a great travel and adventure platform. Don't think the 4x8 is quite big enough for me though.
Great comment here! Thank you so much for spending the time to share this. I don't heart a lot of comments. This definitely gets a big heart!
@@PlayingwithSticks Thanks. Yeah, I know this is the internet and complainers with little background or knowledge of any subject they chime in on are rampant but every once in a while I get tired of the incessant foolish comments. Especially the people who say manufacturers of things like this trailer are trying to "rip people off." These are toys. No one needs one to live their life. They aren't shelter, food or life saving medicine. They are products for people who have disposable income and happen to want to spend this extra income on a small travel trailer. So since no one is in need of such an item and no one is being forced to buy them there is no way any of these companies can rip you off unless they don't deliver what they say they will. I also tire of the people who have zero business acumen who think the price a product should be sold for should equal the total of the parts it's made of and not a dime more. Yeah, forget about every aspect that went into acquisition, assembly, transport, warranty, delivery, research and development, taxes and insurance, rent and having some left for the owner of the company to eat with. But this attitude that everything is a rip off is pervasive these days. I remember when the C8 Corvette hit dealer lots and dealers were asking $20,000 in markup and guys were saying this was making them unaffordable and they should be banned from "ripping people off.". Okay, sure pal, you were standing in line, check in hand, eager to pay that affordable $70,000 MSRP but that darn dealer marked it up 20K so you had to go back to walking everywhere. Okay, so some companies are asking far more than an item needs to sell for to cover all the aforementioned costs plus a generous profit. However, just because you want something but can't afford it is not the definition of rip off. As far as things like this trailer go, well, I know a lot of people who routinely spend a dollar trying to save a dime and many of the commenters here and on countless other channels sound like those folks. They can always do it better for less. Maybe. Perhaps as a one off build for themselves without paying anyone for labor or buying tools they didn't already have. Even then they probably can't but they aren't going to let a lack of research and reality get in the way of a good baseless opinion. And they certainly can't if trying to do so as a viable business model. I know as the creator it is frowned upon to review reality with some of your viewer base but I have nothing to lose from doing so.
I could not build one for that price. Definitely a great product!
Good base level trailer that is scalable and customizable. This is now at the top of my list. Fantastic. At this pricing point I have been looking at cargo trailers to convert.
Glad hearing this was a good fit for you. That is what these videos are all about. Finding that match!
Drew,
I can't thank you enough for this video. I wanted a mid to full feature trailer but I'll have to wait at least least three years, to get it the way I wanted.
Both trailer speak loudly to me.
The old man doesn't know me but he was sweet talking to me.
He had me at "Hello and $5,000"
I can do most of the modifications or add-ons myself.
1. I camp approx. 15 times/year and I would love the get off the ground. The teardrop would also allow me to camp early or late winter. I already own most of the galley equipment and two Ecoflow batteries. The only big ticket item would be a 12V fridge. Therefore, I don't have to load and unload SUV with the essential equipment. I just leave inside. Almost grab and go trailer.
2. The Gear Loft will be great for my 15.5 Ft fishing kayak. My only concern would be if I could fit my Thule roof cargo box and a metal tool box.
This made my day. I love hearing that this video really resonated with you. I got to tell you on this end it feels really good to hear that. I'm with you on the extended shoulder season camping. That was one of the big reasons we got our first teardrop trailer in Alaska. The summer was so short, but we weren't ready to be done. Luckily the 12v fridges are much more affordable then they used to be. Most of us don't need the best, just a nice mid-range fridge with a Dan Foss/Secop compressor. I would think the roof box and metal toolbox would have plenty of space. That gear hauler looked kind of small on video because I shot it on a wide angle lens. But in real life it would appear a bit bigger. 99% of our videos I shoot on a lens that looks close to the true eye. But, in this video I wanted people to see the whole trailer at all times. I probably should have mentioned that.
Other brands need to take note from hiker trailers. They focus on affordability, quality and customer satisfaction. A lot of these other brands seem to have issues with affordability. I’m glad to see a company like this making affordable trailers. Moves like this will push the other companies to start figuring out ways to make a quality trailer at a better price.
I hope this triggers some waves in the industry. Love seeing these prices.
@@PlayingwithSticks same here. We’re definitely starting to see a shift. The voice said it all when he said “some of these prices.” He even knows. That tells me he and the team at hiker care.
Almost as light as our 5x8. For the DIYers who like to customize their rig, this seems to be a decent blank canvas. The telescoping tongue is so useful. We've done that for some custom orders. The other side benefit is that the tongue is removable for storage too.
Interesting. Your 5x8 kit is lighter than this huh? Mark, I would love to know where you are finding the weight savings. We have never really highlighted the low weight of your trailers. Sounds like a potential idea you and I need to look at some time.
@@PlayingwithSticks Ha! Well, people will build them out however they want but if they're built exactly to spec it should be 743 lbs (give or take a few oz). Weight savings is in the frame (not made for off road use) and the profile cuts material and wheel/tire weight is likely less. 20 years of design tweaks and material testing slowly refines it too.
My guesses when doing a vs with Hiker. I'm impressed with their build.
Thanks Mark! I remember when we first really got into teardrops everything I took out was under 1,000lbs. Now, everything seems to be over 1,000lbs. I understand technology has changed and our understanding of teardrop builds have changed, but I don't know what that actually means. Why was a trailer form the same company 700 some pounds in 2017 and now that same trailer weighs 900lbs. Where did that 200lbs come from. I'm usually assuming it is frame and axles. Does that sound right?
@@PlayingwithSticks Frame, axles, and probably popular features that Customers Want. At some point, there are so many customer requests for something that it just makes sense to make those things a standard part of production. There is also a significant shift in customer interest to the off-road stuff. As a life long offroader, I appreciate it but I still feel most people take them to campgrounds and rarely offroad (just like their vehicles). There is a certain look or faddish style that is in play that could add to the weight too.
They should do a customization contest with the winner getting a chance to contribute and design some special trailers
Hello quality minimalist at a super budget friendly rate! This speaks to my family, as a person who loves the simplicity of tent camping, but pays for it with sleep/body pain. Slap a rooftop tent on, and its perfect for my family(or have the kids in a tent), and for a 1/2 or 1/3 price of others.
Great breakdown of the trailer here. I couldn't agree more.
This is a very budget friendly trailer, if you keep it budget friendly. in all honestly 4,999 entry, you could load it down with dollar store products, walmart air or foam mattresses, or heck, a Futon Japanese floor matress, that you can roll up then have the entire floor useful during the day if you need it.
Hmm, Futon, small Kotatsu, and an inexpensive tatami chair or 2.. and it becomes a home away from home.. then add in a cheep little single burner stove for cooking and you are good to go on a budget adventure. umm drew, look up the following "Costway 6-Position Adjustable Floor Chair " and think of putting a pair of those in there for day time use. with the Kotatsu between them.
Where do you find this stuff! I need to subscribe to whatever newsfeed you have. I picture decking this out the way Lynn did with her Road Toad. Her trailer felt like a little home on wheels and it was just thrift store items and walmart. It doesn't take a whole lot. Thanks for pointing this out Jennifer! As you know...you rock!
@@PlayingwithSticks hehe, so you like that little costway floor chair? its a western take on the japanese Tatami floor chairs.. these things would work great in short tear drops. giving you a much "bigger" feeling, much like being in a full sized recliner while still in the tear drop, with a little tablet playing movies for you.
lots of little tablets you can buy for around 100 bucks.
We are going old school and bought a basic portable dvd player this year. Grabbing movies as we leave from the library and the kids are loving it. So far we only allow them on the road, I haven't given in yet at the campsite. Luckily though they also haven't asked. These boys are still enjoying the adventures for the adventure.
@@PlayingwithSticks i thought old schole would be 8mm projector :) that said, i'm still talking budget wise... download a movie or 3 before you leave... thoug you can get cheep portable dvd players too. so yeah that works as cost effectice.
though again, sitting in the floor relcyner, sipping coffee, reading a book as the thunderstorm rolls across the mountain... listening to the rain on the roof.
@jenniferstewarts4851 that last paragraph makes me just want to get out there right now.
This looks just about perfect. I built one around $8k online. I think I could tow this with a Crosstrek with a 2.0L or Honda CRV.
Yes, that would pair great with a crosstrek, CRV, or RAV4
I want the galley door hinged on the top. That is a deal killer for me, regardless of how great everything else is. They don't need struts, just fixed props that won't put anything like the pressure on components.
Top hinge SUCKS if you aren’t short. Side swing and add awning. They showed exactly why no top hinge, lightens the frame massively
Thanks for the video. I might have to buy one next spring.
Remember that we run on about a 90 day lead time for our custom units for when you place your order.
I built my small micro camper van with this exact design of the back counter and passthrough. If you search hard you might find a van for private sale with under 60k miles for that price.
excellent little trailer for a fair price... I agree that many of them out there are ridiculously priced... rather "build my own" from a base model.
Being in FL - A/C MOD for sure here!!
YES!! Deal breaker without one!
Definitely got my attention. Nice job.
Did you not notice those welds in the first 15 seconds…
In general, I go for practicality over looks, but an exception is I like teardrops vs squaredrops. (having used neither)
For that price I could buy two one for the adults and one for the kids and pull doubles. 😂😂😂😂
This definitely a great entry level trailer for one to two people.
I like the back to the roots approach, a place to store and haul camping gear and ready made bed/tent once your destination is reached.
I couldn't have said that any better Mike! Thank you.
nice, light is the key, simple easy use
Love love love this! I want one!!
Awesome to hear Patty!
Exceptionally good vid - thank you :)
When I first saw the new one, I thought the tent on top were fold down doors to make it a teardrop and then fold them back up to haul your toys. Now that’s an idea
I like that idea!
Theres a company doing this but it is like 20k lol
i think 4x8 is perfect for some people. i think that would be too small for me. having said that, great price for sure. God bless everyone
I think I wouldn't have known any different. It felt great for us, because we didn't have anything to compare it to. But, now after being in a 5x8 it would be hard to go back.
Great video! Love Bob and the Hiker crew!
Good seeing you Brian!
@@PlayingwithSticksI sent you an email, hoping to connect
Did I miss another one from you? Sorry Brian. Like you, I've been playing a lot of catch up lately. Another season of transitions. Haha. Sorry Brian. I will make sure to pull that email up right now.
I would not pay more than 1/4 of that price for this. You guys are nuts.
Haha. Sounds like you're new here. You couldn't build one for this price.
@@PlayingwithSticks it's just an empty shell, there's nothing in it to justify that price, and I know for a fact you can build something better than this for less than that, I know because I helped my neighbor do it once except we could stand up inside his and it had all the basics you need for off-grid adventures, granted he's retired and has all the time in the world to do things like that but I sure learned a lot helping him
@Rocky-or4rz I'm not saying I don't believe you. Love the story you just shared, I bet that was a great experience and a good way to bond. But I am saying you did this before covid. We have a number of videos on UA-cam if you want to see, that share cost breakdown of what a teardrop trailer actually costs to build with these crazy lumber, material, and component prices. Again not saying you're wrong, just saying times have changed. Manufacturers who build at scale like this are able to build a better and more affordable camper than any of us can. That is unless we're patient and we look around for scrap material and used parts. There's not many doing it, just hiker, runaway, and tiny camper company. Maybe there's another I left out, but all the other builds out there. I guarantee you can do it for cheaper. They have quite the price hike.
And sorry about my original comment, I went and read it. It sounded very condescending. I get this comment quite often. And typically it's from guys who are just throwing out words without nothing to back it. I appreciate that you actually can back yours up.
This will be competition for the Runaway Coolcamp
Would definitely be interested in this trailer, although I'd want to lift it to match my Jeep's lift.
I am seriously thinking of getting this to pull behind my Dodge Challenger.
Love seeing an aluminum frame 👍
That was big for me! I completely agree with you Patrick. Hope all is well with you my friend.
Thanks, Drew, this was a great video! And I’m really glad you like this, the con about the storage isn’t a con for me, I like having options! And I noticed the side opening instead of the opening up, I remember you saying something about that in one of your posts. The gas struts slowly moving down. Anyway, I’m loving this little trailer! And I have to watch it again because now I can’t remember if plug ins were included. Brain fog, it’s real 😅🩷
I'm with you on the options. I used to think I liked cabinets and drawers. Well, I still like them. But, I prefer now to just make my own. Either modular or stationary. That way I can build around my needs. And yes, you are a great listener. The gas struts slowly move down (lose their holding power), meaning need replaced eventually. And then you have this problem I mentioned...The pressure the gas springs themselves put on the rear corners of the camper eventually will push that seam apart. Yes, it can be repaired, but you always have to keep your eye on it. He was kind of vague with the plugs. Basically what I took away is that it is wired for power stations or battery, but I am not sure if it is wired for plugs. Obviously the power station would have it's own plugs (which is how we use our new barebones teardrop), but I am not sure if you have to upgrade to hard wired plugs. My guess would be yes, but my brain fog is setting in as well. I read all this on their website and now can't recall any of it. Haha.
@@PlayingwithSticks I know, I did, too. I’ll just email them to ask the question and get back with you.
Thanks Ramona, I appreciate it!
@@PlayingwithSticksok, I emailed them, they haven’t responded yet. So, I just looked up the website and there is a wiring harness, 110v AC shore power, plug, front USB and a volt meter. That answers our questions, right?
@ramonapuckett3059 oh wow, I wasn't expecting that. Thank you for taking the time to share this. I've been really surprised at everything you get on this barebones build.
Would like to see a future Gear Loft model that can hold a big motorcycle at the bottom. Foldable or detachable ramp, actuator on LH & RH side of the platform.
I think these go head on against Sylvan Sport Go and Go Easy trailers. Not as light but a hard sided trailer and without the load and unload process that the Go pop up tent has. Also more longevity. Not bothered by the bare bones version. Especially for someone shifting from tent life. They will have all that gear that is likely stored in bins that can be pulled out the back. Quick kitchen set up. Same thing with the outdoor lights and propane. I had those in my tent camping gear. Even with the Bean, I put on my head lamp when headed outside after dark and rarely turn on the exterior light.
Different variations for the gear hauler when compared to the Sylvan Sport version. All for a lower price. These are great options for anyone looking to “upgrade” their camping life.
I really love my Hiker Trailer EOR to carry my motorcycle. I love that they made a mini toy hauler. I could definitely see myself getting one of those as well down the line for small trips.
I've never seen one with a bike on it, how cool is that? Did you have that custom made, or is that an option they advertise?
@@PlayingwithSticks they don’t advertise it but I post videos on it on my channel. When I bought mine I asked about the possibility of doing it and with a smaller bike it’s possible
That is so cool. I have a couple of small dual sports and would love to be able to do something like this.
Great for my Jeep.
Very interesting camper at an affordable price! ❤
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this.
This is pretty damn perfect.
Should make its popup.
Hey Drew. Thanks for showing this to us. This is a possibility for me. Add a minimal solar. Might be just really be good ffor starters. especially since we can add on other items .
Exactly! A nice barebones, build as you go trailer. And I love the weight!
Good seeing you buddy!
@@PlayingwithSticksI wish I could do this before my vacation this time. Maybe next time. Will be in Moab a few days before heading onward to Montana.
Your trip sounds like it is going to be great. We still haven't done Moab as a family.
@@PlayingwithSticks
Montana with a slick noggin may be different.
That's an amazing value
It truly is!
Seeing the inside would have been cool
Right!!!! Sorry about that, user error. I filmed in the wrong mode on accident and it was all unusable. The only interior you saw was video I pulled off of hiker's website.
Wow Boogered welds shown off in the first 15 seconds… sign me up!!! 😅
Just a fuzz bigger would be perfect!
Wish these were available in Australia!
The rate they are growing, who knows...maybe they will be there soon.
@@PlayingwithSticks let them come to Canada land of lakes and mountains ready to be explored
At 8:20 you mentioned that you can now pretty much predict the failure points on a teardrop based on its age. Are you going to do a special on that? I'm early stages of a foamie build and would love to know what to look out for or where to reinforce the design or avoid certain features.
I love that idea. I will put it on the list. Unfortunately though I have a ton of content I already shot that will have to go out first.
What's the best way to reach out to you? I'm building a 5' x 8' foamie sheathed in truck bed liner that I think you might want to check out. Seamless, rot proof, super insulated, galvanized trailer frame, and less than 600 lbs. Would love to show it to you when finished.
budget food stores-
Lol, you can even do budget "MRE's." for camping there are tons of products to limit what you have to bring.
BEN'S ORIGINAL BISTRO EXPRESS - verity of flavors, microwavesable rice packs BUT you can also cook them buy leaving them in boiled water.
Course you have stuff like Knorr which is just add water.
Dollar stores also have Pasta Pouches, can get them in several different packs, cook in boiling water again :)
Idea's like this let you get quick meals and sides that you can have without needing a freezer or fridge or cooler. great for 1-2 day camping trips, or just leaving in your camper in case of emergancy. darn things last a long time and are pretty light.
This is what I ate before I met May. I think that is why she married me. She thought I looked so miserable. The poor guy never eats real food. Most would call this camp food. I called it my everyday fuel. Haha. I always tell her I was quite happy. But, the food we have today is a big step up!
@@PlayingwithSticks yep, but for this, it also works very well with the minimalist build, you don't need a fridge, you don't need cooler, don't need dishes, pots and pans...
just 1 pot to boil water in. and a water container. you could even cook these using an Esbit stove (just not inside).
this cuts down on the initial expense again to get started.
That is a good point. That would really cut down on the prep time for a trip. And then obviously the work time during a trip.
I know you just got your new trailer can you make a video where you stor everything and how fridge does in front, with mud and dirt and rocks . Would also like to know all the extras and why thank you
You know, I would love to do that, but I probably won't make that video for quite some time. I really want to get to know the trailer before I suggest anything. In a month or two, just send me an email. I can send you pictures and give you a little write up of what I am currently doing. At the moment I don't have it quite dialed in, but by November I should have a pretty good idea.
@@PlayingwithSticks thank you I’ve been thinking of the same trailer just worried about fridge being where it is and heating and cooling I live in Arizona
@michaelrobinson7632 That's a valid concern. I mean, obviously you're going to need a weather sealed cooler like the iceco that we're using. But in all honesty, it really comes down to how you use your cooler. Right now we're going to run the iceco on the tongue, but I'm not sure if I'm going to use it there forever. Our family only opens the fridge about one time just right before we make the food. So keeping it in the tow vehicle really doesn't add that much more of a hassle. I always thought it was neat to have it in your galley kitchen, but lately I've been wondering how often do I actually benefit from it being so close to me. Like I said this season I'll be running it on the tongue, but I think next season I'll definitely experiment with it in my tow vehicle and using the tongue for other storage.
For that price i can get an older trailer home with multiple beds. Bathroom, kitchen,shower,AC in decent condition
That weighs 750 lbs??
If you had the money you wouldn't be so cheap. Sour grapes. 😂
This reminds me of the runaway campers just without the A/C
I've had a Runaway 4x8 for 10 years. (This video poped up in my UA-cam feed, so I watched; yes very similar to Runaway)
Exactly. That is their competition. Very similar trailers. Also similar build process. But, a few years ago Runaway switched to composite so now they are a bit different in design vs the past.
Awesome I want one
This would've been tempting if we hadn't gotten our MidRange.....
While aluminum is lighter than steel for the same profile, welds reduce the strength of the material in the heat affected zone to about 50% of it's pre-weld condition.
I'd strongly prefer steel for a chassis application. The downside is the need for corrosion protection, which for the budget would be either a single stage alkyd or acrylic enamel over a primer. Hot dipped galvanizing is great, but again quite costly.
If you have a good monocoque 'box', the torsion axle can mount directly to it, and so can the tongue, removing the need for large members under the box. I'd envision two layers of hand laid 6 oz fiberglass cloth with epoxy on both sides of 1" or 1.5" XPS foam. Strong, lightweight, no seams with screws, butyl tape and materials with different expansion ratios trying to 'break' itself.
What you are describing is essentially what Charles and I did with our trailer. And it was a big trailer. Mostly carbon fiber and a little Kevlar, but like you said monocoque. It is definitely doable.
“Starting at” the diamond plates on each side is an extra 100 each , 100 for the shelf , 200 for cabinet doors.. this is not the base model, roof rack 300, awning over 1000
The awning prices vary, they offer several kinds. My 270 was around $700.
Looks like something i build from harbor freight
Love everything but the color.
I wonder if it comes in other colors similar to their other models? I would assume we get color choices. BUT, many companies only have a limited colors for their budget models, so maybe that is how they are offering this as well.
WOW. I'm looking for trailer my BASIC Dodge Journey can pull. This might be it 🤔
Very interesting camping options. I like the possibilities. Do you keep on hand, stock, the various models and options, or how long will it take for a purchase to come in??
I love your channel and I love this company. As soon as I’m done paying off my ex-wife for the house I plan on buying one of these next year so I can travel with my two daughters. Any recommendation as to which one I should go with with two young girlsand myself?
The more i look at it, the more i think, this trailer would work great with Japanese furniture... it also makes me wonder why other teardrops aren't used with japanese furnature. Japanese floor sofa's and Sectional sofa's would fit in so many of these. Using futon floor mats instead of beds, and rolling them up during the day. Nakai Mokko- Tatami folding chairs, and a folding table would work inside most small trailers. the options become endless on how to configure... and the fact that you could change at camp because of how small most of the stuff folds up. pull out the bed slide the table and chairs where the bed was stored...
Using existing japanese items in the tear drops, with maybe 1 or 2 small changes in how storage works in them, could really open up each tiny teardrop into a customizable home on wheels rather then just a bed and breakfast place.
I really wish you would review the Ukancamp tear drops out of Oklahoma.
i want a hiker trailer but my needs are different. I want a 5x10 trailer with built in bathroom with different shower and toilet inside. then just a fridge and kitchen and some room. The top roof will be a hard top tent that im building with a 240 watts on top off the roof tent
"you can't build a trail in 2024 with this quality at a better price".
I'm Romani, (my family and I are the last builders of Authentic Roma Vardo's in the world) "hold my beer".
Love it! Now that's something to be proud of
I thought this looked like a cheap alternative but they're way too expensive for the size..... It's only "affordable" if you buy literally just an empty trailer which you can find cheaper and bigger elsewhere. Every little convenience cost extra, a LOT extra.... Roof vent with a fan $450, propane heater almost $2000, $150 just for a place to mount the propane tank, $600 for a powered cooler, hell a spare tire is $225 and then $175 for a place to mount it..... Want a rooftop tent? Almost $2000, 8 gallons of water? $550. They're way too much unless you just have money to blow and desperately need something super light weight
Again, in 2024 we can't build a trailer of this size for this price. Meaning DIY I've seen it done time and time again. But you're right, if you want to add all those components, this trailer is going to cost you a lot of money. I like to remind people that those are wants, when it comes to camping needs. All we really need is a bed on wheels.
WOW COOL!
I hope you're making an episode about your new Bean Stock 2.0 purchase!
Sort of. You will see it in the next episode. But, in terms of a review. I probably won't do one for another year. I really want to put it through the paces and get my organizational systems dialed in before I talk about it again. But, next week will give you a good idea of where I am heading with it. The video is about all the components I am adding.
Great. When you previously reviewed the Stock 2.0 you mentioned how you'd like the air fan side mounted to keep the outer skin as monolithic as possible. I agreed with that idea, but wanted an A/C unit in place of the fan, and an inside propane heater. I thought Bean could add a simple pass-through propane coupler near the Discata mount.
Yes, I would like to see more companies add a coupler for just a simple portable ecoflow Wave 2. When it comes to the propane heaters like a propex, those are typically vented underneath. Which also has some of its own problems, but at least it's not up on the shell.
That second trailer is like a Swiss army knife
That is a great way to describe it. I think Bob only just got started explaining the potential. Imagine the things you could do with that trailer
@@PlayingwithSticks if the lifting mechanism was similar to a tent trailer with cables it would be out of the way, by using pins to secure it might be better by freeing the space below. Lots of solutions and options with this one.
@@andrewanderson5297 It looked like the center lifting mechanism had a pull pin at the top, so when not being needed to raise or lower the roof they could just pull the pin and lay the lift down flat on the floor. If I was just seeing things though, that is the first modification that I would add to it.
Great point! and I think Bob will figure that out as the need arises. A lot of the engineers out there try to bypass the cable systems to reduce moving parts. Basically the more simple they can design these lift mechanisms the less chance of failure and the easier for us to field repair.
I think you saw that right. You would be able to move that actuator. If I had a 300lb tent on top and maybe some additional gear I would probably need that actuator most of the time. For me I like keeping things simple. I wouldn't mind a low geared hand crank system. Yes, it would take more time, but I could raise it myself and not have to worry about motors and more complicated field repair.
That welding was pretty nasty...
This would be great for mountain bikes. Maybe 3 of them. Can a sedan haul this size?
Many sedans do have tow capacities and this would be within the toy capacity for a good amount of them.
I love that trailer!!! Is there any lite trailer in the market in which a person can stand that doesn't cost a fortune ?
Not Yet…. 😉
I've been looking at the Hiker Trailers for a while and this is a great addition to their line up. All the forums are filled with "get the biggest trailer you can" comments but I'm a solo camper, so I don't need all that space. I'm looking for room for a twin mattress and a place where I can store my kitchen gear. Do you see any real downsides to this small size? I've been backpacking and tent camping, so having a hard shell around me is a luxury.
Have you seen Lynn's road toad video yet? While it isn't a Hiker, it is a great example of what you can do with one of these small trailers. Here is that video if you haven't seen it yet. ua-cam.com/video/FZEy_PbIp4A/v-deo.html In terms of downsize, we loved ours before stepping into a 5x8. We honestly felt it was perfect. Now though after being in a 5x8 it would be a little harder going backwards, but that is just 1 foot-itis. Again, I don't think we would be any "happier" in the 5x8 vs the 4x8 it is just a bit more luxury, but both get us to the same destinations.
@@PlayingwithSticks I've watched Lynn's video several times. It's so cool what she's done with her trailer. Looks cozy and functional. (I've been watching your videos for years, but almost never on a computer so I can't normally comment). Keep up the great work!
He needs slide out tables that can be set at table height with the linear actuator from the top of the gear carrier trailer.
I like that. I think he could easily make that happen if someone wanted that as a custom edition.
Is it sturdy, reliable and durable?
Not a tear drop perhaps in this case perhaps, but I’d love to see essentially the same unit (4x8) with a standing or near standing height inside.
Technically a squaredrop. As for your wish, the closest thing I know to this would be the Rouser from Runaway. But I think it may be a 6x8. It is standing height and fairly affordable.
@@PlayingwithSticksthat is interesting and helpful, thank you. One nice feature (among others) I noticed about the Hiker Trailer is the swing out rear door with gear pass-through.
I think those are great features as well. And features that come typically on higher dollar trailers. The only downfall of the swing out door is that means you get no coverage from the sun and rain from it being overhead.
Sweet for continually upgrade and mods by budget ability....can two e-mtb (55 lbs each) be fitted on a trailer roof rack...or is the roof fan in the way?
Thanks for another great video! I really like this trailer, but I am wondering how the aluminum frame would handle jeep trails, logging roads, and other not too extreme off roads over time.
In my opinion I think it really would just come down to how you drive. If you pick good lines, take your time, keep your trailer from going airborne/dropped off ledges I think it would hold up just fine. You don't have a lot of weight. Typically light trailers like this do not have an a-frame chassis and the frame only covers part of the trailer. The fact that you have an a-frame tongue and a chassis that covers the majority of the trailer, I think this will be up for more than most of us realize.
Unless I missed it, why no mention that Hiker sold a basic 4x8 3-4 years ago for about $2900 starting price? This seems like an upgraded rerelease after emphasizing higher end/higher priced models the past few years. Adding some basic options and delivery fees will probably get this trailer north of $8K for buyers in western states (the current owner closed the Colorado factory and added delivery fees of about $1500 to a few random pickup locations out west). I think Hiker makes a great product and I recommend them often, but doesn't make sense for a some of us. ua-cam.com/video/ho4jgArMurs/v-deo.htmlsi=pgkB5i23O3uZdz9O
The older model 4x8's were stripped down to almost nothing. They didn't have any electrical, no brakes, basic steel frame, only 1 door, no read door as standard, and were as close to a wooden box on a basic frame as possible. We've seen the value in including as many standard options, while allowing the customization for customers, at a fair and low price point. This re-imagined and redesigned 4x8 is very different compared to the older stripped down models of years past. We believe in adding value to our units, not just churning out the cheapest products possible. Hope this helps clarify some of the differences, not to mention how much cheaper everything was 3-4 years ago.
I love the price point. But there isn’t much there. It’s a box on a frame with a fan. Nice guy though. He is a plus.
That is really all we need. The rest is just wants. But I get you, I like those "wants" as well.
Id like to see how that aluminum frame holds up after a few years of going down rough roads to get to trailheads etc.
My guess is it would do just find if we are talking forest service/trailheads. It appears to be a pretty robust aluminum frame. An a-frame tongue and the frame is spread throughout the trailer. In my opinion the seams of the cabin would probably separate before you have a chassis issue. Or maybe at the same time, but both are pretty unlikely if you take it easy and pick good lines.
I'm not a big fan of Aluminum frames and I really do not care for the welds I saw on the undercarriage of this trailer. I do like the small compact go anywhere trailer though.
Look at those welds, you'll find the compromise
I think you are about the 5th person to note this. I don't think it is a compromise. I think they will take your feedback and make it right. A compromise is usually in materials, they can just hire a new welder, train up their current one, or send the chassis out of house to be constructed. Thanks for the feedback, I know they will appreciate it.