In this post, we’ll share tons of ideas, inspiration, and guides for your cargo trailer camper build. The best part about doing a DIY trailer build is that you can customize every detail. Some cargo campers are full of luxury fixtures and finishes. Some have just the bare minimum for a weekend getaway.

First, let’s dive into a few frequently asked questions about cargo trailer camper conversions and doing a DIY build.

Can you turn an enclosed trailer into a camper?

Yes! You can turn a trailer of (almost) any type into a camper. The most popular types of DIY travel trailers are made with:

• Cargo trailers or enclosed trailers

• Horse trailers

• Toy haulers

• Landscape trailers

• Metal trailer bases that require a complete ground-up build with frame

Start by doing some research on the right trailer to start with, depending on the skills, tools, and workspace you have available. With a little planning and a lot of sweat, you can turn an enclosed trailer into a camper and be ready for any adventure that comes your way.

What size do cargo trailers come in?

Cargo trailers come in a range of sizes. The most common small to mid-sized cargo trailer sizes you’ll see are:

• 5’ x 8’

• 5’ x 10’

• 6’ x 10’

• 6’ x 12’

• 7’ x 14’

• 7’ x 16’

• 7’ x 24”

The standard height for enclosed cargo trailers is 6’ unless otherwise listed, with taller options including 6’6”, 7’, and 7’6”. If you’re buying new from a dealer or manufacturer, you can often custom order the cargo trailer to fit your exact needs.

How much does a cargo trailer cost?

Cargo trailers start around $1,000 and can cost upwards of $15,000. A single axle trailer runs around $1,000-$5,000 for a size up to 7'x14'. For dual-axle trailers in a range of sizes, expect to pay $4,000-$15,000 or more depending on size, materials, and options. Explore this link to find out more about the cost ranges of cargo trailers. 

How much does it cost to convert a cargo trailer into a camper?

Depending on the size and complexity of your build, a cargo trailer camper can be designed to fit almost any budget. 

The biggest cost is often the cargo trailer itself. You can purchase the trailer new from a dealer/manufacturer, or used from a site like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or your local classifieds.

Depending on the size and features, you can expect to spend anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000 on the low end, and $10,000 to $14,000 on the high end to convert a cargo trailer into a camper. 

Is it cheaper to convert a cargo trailer into a camper?

Yes, it is often cheaper to convert a cargo trailer into a camper than to purchase a new RV. 

The markup on RVs from a dealership is usually between 20% to 40%. This does range depending on if the RV is bought new or used. You can also knock this markup down with your negotiation skills. Traditional RV sellers also earn a commission of 20% to 30% of the profit on an RV, which is another markup that’s passed along to the buyer. 

If you are deciding whether to DIY or buy, take all of these markups and added costs into consideration. If you choose to build your own cargo trailer camper, consider the costs of the tools you’ll need, your time and labor, and other expenses that might come up along the way.

Can you sleep in a cargo trailer?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to sleep in a cargo trailer (with some caveats). Before sleeping in your cargo trailer, make sure you have adequate ventilation. Modern cargo trailers are usually not constructed to be airtight. Before sleeping in the trailer, close up the barn doors or ramp doors along with the passenger door, if there is one. If you see light coming in, there is some ventilation. For increased safety, add a roof vent or window. Carefully research safety precautions if you plan to run electrical, heat or AC. Make sure your trailer doesn't have a hasp lock on the side door, in case someone decides it would be funny to lock you in there overnight.

How do you make a cargo trailer into a toy hauler?

Cargo trailer campers make great toy haulers. You can build your DIY trailer camper to fit your “toys” including:

• Motorcycles

• ATVs

• Dune buggies

• Snowmobiles

• Cars, and more

When designing your cargo trailer camper to function as a toy hauler, first consider the size. We suggest using a pen, paper, and ruler to map out your plan. Or, try blue painter's tape on a flat surface like a driveway. For more advanced design, try a Cargo Trailer Camper design program like Sketchup. 

Next, think modular. Some great designs we’ve seen use bed lifts or murphy beds that conveniently move out of the way. Also consider how you’ll secure your toy(s) whether that’s with an E Track system, tie-down D-rings, or another solution. 

The goal is to understand how your toy(s) will fit in the cargo trailer camper along with your living space needs like your bed, kitchen, bathroom, and storage. 

Inspiration for your Cargo Trailer Camper conversion: 85+ DIY camper build ideas

Before we get to the design inspiration, let’s talk about the most important piece of your DIY camper build, the cargo trailer that you’ll be starting with!

Some DIY camper builders may already have an enclosed trailer to start with. For others, the first step will be researching and purchasing a new or used cargo trailer.

Before you buy, watch these helpful videos to learn what to look for:

Now, let’s get to the inspiration!

Sites like YouTube, Reddit, Pinterest, and more are packed with information and images to help with your research. We also recommend joining the top Facebook groups for Cargo Trailer Camper Conversions. These are groups that we are personally in, and have more than 75,000 members! It can be great to get help, support, and a sense of community as your start your build.