Posted: 7/28/2026 8:23:33 PM EDT
[Last Edit: prebans][Edited]
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How would you modify an enclosed trailer for emergency use? I’ve considered a 10k 16’ dual axle with V-nose enclosed trailer for a long time. The tow vehicle is an 3/4-ton diesel Ram 2500. Its main use is taking my larger guns out to shoots and shows. Secondary will be moving myself across the country in a couple years. Tertiary is hauling other stuff. Then I considered emergencies. Yesterday a few towns north of me got flattened. In April, I lost roofs on two of three wings of one of my buildings and my own roof at home took damage. My elderly parents live in Florida and lost their condo’s roof in Hurricane Ian, plus they’ve had numerous other weather scares over time. How would you modify an enclosed trailer to make it useful in emergencies? Remember that this is NOT a dedicated disaster response or rescue trailer. Its main purpose is for fun at shoots; bringing guns too big for the truck, some supplies, and maybe a grill and cooler. I just think it’s silly to buy a trailer and not make it useful for emergency service too. Solar panels? A 30 or 50-amp breaker and outlets? Batteries? Do you have other thoughts? Thank you! |
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Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer  |
LIFE'S JOURNEY IS NOT TO ARRIVE AT THE GRAVE SAFELY IN A WELL PRESERVED BODY,
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BUT RATHER TO SKID IN SIDEWAYS, TOTALLY WORN OUT SHOUTING "HOLY $H!T...WHAT A RIDE"!!
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Generator, several 5gal gas cans, a/c, propane ventless heater, 2 20lb propane tanks, bunk beds, wire it for lights & multiple outlets, propane gas stove, few pot/pans/skillets, plates, coffee cups, utentsils, coffee pot, 120v cube ice box, ice chests, am/fm radio & antena, 19" led tv & antena, designated area for several 5gal primo water bottles & manual pump, sealable 5gal bucket shitter & trash bags, trash can & trash bags, tent, tarps, rope, med supplies bag, axes, shovels, hi-lift jack, propane lanterns & spare bottles, refill adapter. Probably lots more stuff jic hahahaha. Sockets, wrenches etc Tool kit. |
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You need some sort of water storage and delivery, some way to go to the bathroom, some way to sleep, some way to cook. This could be just some 5 gallon jugs and a shelf for them to sit on or a more serious dedicated water tank and pump. You could buy $100 RV toilet off of Amazon or even something cheaper. The fold out couches/sleeping platforms are very nice if you want to get more serious. Otherwise, inflatable mattress. Portable propane stove. |
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I put etrack in my cargo trailer.. thinking it would be simple enough to have some e-track modules that could go in for that emergency, and come out otherwise, without being a liability (e.g. bouncing around in there) - as noted, you need basics - place to sleep, rations, water, place to poop.. solar if you want to get fancy, but i wouldnt bolt that on permanently myself, more like i'd want a way to have the brackets ready and keep the panel somewhere safe, and be able to pop it up there as needed, put the battery module on an etrack and go... IMO power isnt the biggest concern, most of my trailer would go to space to sleep or would be supplies if sleeping in the truck was the plan. |
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Solar on the roof is another thought. This and a battery are much nicer than dealing with a generator and fuel constantly. These panels are expensive but are flexible and also provide power when partially shaded. They can be mounted with VHB tape or adhesive.   Failed To Load Product Data |
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If a storm gets your house good chance it will get your trailer as well. Unless it’s stored at a further away location. I’d just get in YT and start watching what guys build for deer camps. Folding cots on the walls like bunk beds. 2 generators and a AC and fridge / freezer should be set. |
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Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. |
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Originally Posted By Bubbles: I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. Originally Posted By Bubbles: Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. Excellent post. We have weatherproof totes preloaded & clearly labeled for camping (or emergency). Cooking, Sanitary, Communication, Sleeping, Clothing, Tools, Tents, etc... ... Attached awning or large tarp(s) w/ poles, lines & pegs for shade definitely a plus for shade from the sun & when it rains too. It enlarges the usable space for cooking, sitting around & storage out of the direct elements. Toilet & water. We have multiple 5 gallon water cans that we can fill from a water purifier. The other side is handled with a folding toilet privacy frame & curtain with a 5 gallon bucket toilet using a seat, lid, plastic liner bags. Bonus is you can use the privacy frame - curtain for a solar shower too. None of these things takes away from regular use of your trailer for everyday "utility" hauling. Starkink Mini-Mobile is incredible! Bigger_Hammer
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LIFE'S JOURNEY IS NOT TO ARRIVE AT THE GRAVE SAFELY IN A WELL PRESERVED BODY,
BUT RATHER TO SKID IN SIDEWAYS, TOTALLY WORN OUT SHOUTING "HOLY $H!T...WHAT A RIDE"!!
BUT RATHER TO SKID IN SIDEWAYS, TOTALLY WORN OUT SHOUTING "HOLY $H!T...WHAT A RIDE"!!
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Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer Originally Posted By Ndenway1twicetimes: Generator, several 5gal gas cans, a/c, propane ventless heater, 2 20lb propane tanks, bunk beds, wire it for lights & multiple outlets, propane gas stove, few pot/pans/skillets, plates, coffee cups, utentsils, coffee pot, 120v cube ice box, ice chests, am/fm radio & antena, 19" led tv & antena, designated area for several 5gal primo water bottles & manual pump, sealable 5gal bucket shitter & trash bags, trash can & trash bags, tent, tarps, rope, med supplies bag, axes, shovels, hi-lift jack, propane lanterns & spare bottles, refill adapter. Probably lots more stuff jic hahahaha. Sockets, wrenches etc Tool kit. Originally Posted By Bubbles: I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. I would add some polyiso or similar insulation. Just some R barrier. Lots of good suggestions. Rooftop air or cut vents for the portable AC hoses. |
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Originally Posted By zoe17: I would add some polyiso or similar insulation. Just some R barrier. Lots of good suggestions. Rooftop air or cut vents for the portable AC hoses. Originally Posted By zoe17: Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer Originally Posted By Ndenway1twicetimes: Generator, several 5gal gas cans, a/c, propane ventless heater, 2 20lb propane tanks, bunk beds, wire it for lights & multiple outlets, propane gas stove, few pot/pans/skillets, plates, coffee cups, utentsils, coffee pot, 120v cube ice box, ice chests, am/fm radio & antena, 19" led tv & antena, designated area for several 5gal primo water bottles & manual pump, sealable 5gal bucket shitter & trash bags, trash can & trash bags, tent, tarps, rope, med supplies bag, axes, shovels, hi-lift jack, propane lanterns & spare bottles, refill adapter. Probably lots more stuff jic hahahaha. Sockets, wrenches etc Tool kit. Originally Posted By Bubbles: I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. I would add some polyiso or similar insulation. Just some R barrier. Lots of good suggestions. Rooftop air or cut vents for the portable AC hoses. I didn't think about insulation, Few people I know got enclosed trailers used iirc 1", might be 1.5" foil back styrofoam sheets covered with peg board. Cut hole high front center, fab'd a angle iron frame mount for a window a/c unit, and re-enforced trailer wall to take a/c weight. I got a roof mount a/c off an old 14' popup trailer I got as payment, I traded my cruiser for a 1t passenger van few months back that I'm using for my camping/shagginwagon that I might put the rooftop a/c on.  The manual water pump I posted about is a primo manual pump, iirc it was $20 at walmart and with coupon in it, got two free 5gallon full primo bottles of water. iirc the full primo bottles cost $10 or so, and take back in for refill for $2, but hell I don't see the need to pay refill when I just fill from hydrant or bathtub faucet at house. I got a couple of 5gallon orange igloo water coolers to. |
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Solar panels on the roof, charge controller, lithium batteries stored in a metal box on the tongue. Those get used to power 12V fans for ventilation in warmer weather and a diesel heater when it’s cold. Lighting is also a must. Anything past that is per your mission requirements-food, bedding, water filtration, pesticide sprayer for shower and water dispenser etc. I’d have a solar oven for general cooking like in my thread in Survival Gear as well as the oven I reviewed for baking stuff. Typical alcohol stove for boiling water if it’s too cloudy for the solar stove to do it. ETA Mesh screen doors for ventilation and an awning for room to stretch out and not be cooped up in a box. |
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- Battery / inverter setup, cover the roof in solar. 500-1000 watts worth, 10kWh or larger batteries. Victron Multiplus-II units can supply 120/240v in parallel config and have a Power Assist feature to boost throughput of a small generator. This would allow the trailer to have ample power on its own or act as an infinite solar generator to power a house. - Water pump/filter/storage system. Take water with you or purify on site. - Chinese diesel heater, cheap abundant heat source - Portable cassette toilet. Cheap and useful. - Fold down bunks. Easy place to sleep in a pinch - LED lighting for interior and exterior. Cheap and useful. - Honda EU2200i. Cheap quiet power to supplement the solar. - 12v compressor frig or compressor cooler. Keep cold food stable in the heat or when traveling. This would cover the basics of shelter, water, power for bugging out or emergency relief. |
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Thank you, everybody. Before I reply to specific points, a few people brought up why have one? If my home goes, the trailer would go too. Remember, I said that this isn’t a dedicated emergency response trailer. It’s going to be outfitted for doing shoots, taking big guns here and there, moving me across the country, and hauling other things. I just think it’s foolish to outfit it for shoots but not have it ready for emergency duty if something goes sideways. And due to its size, it will be stored off site. My garage isn’t big enough to hold it and I don’t want it rotting outside in the elements when it’s not in use. My emergency stash is in my home. No need to have it in a trailer, even if it was on site. This is for if I need to go elsewhere to help my elderly parents or someone else. |
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Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Some fold out shelves along the side walls with enough size & capacity to be used for sleeping. Bonus is you can use them for multi-level storage adding much more cargo capacity. Solar panels on the roof + batteries. LED interior lights & perhaps a few exterior LEDs. Those will all be useful in "normal situations" plus bonus in an emergency. Bigger_Hammer I am still considering what sort of shelves to install. I do know that I want a folding workbench, maybe a large solid core out of spec door attached with a piano hinge, two angled chains, and folding legs. Need to learn more about my solar options. I’m a fan of the additional lighting. I’d also like to have extra exterior lights to make it more visible at night, maybe outline the rear with red LEDs assuming there’s no DOT reg against that. Originally Posted By Ndenway1twicetimes: Generator, several 5gal gas cans, a/c, propane ventless heater, 2 20lb propane tanks, bunk beds, wire it for lights & multiple outlets, propane gas stove, few pot/pans/skillets, plates, coffee cups, utentsils, coffee pot, 120v cube ice box, ice chests, am/fm radio & antena, 19" led tv & antena, designated area for several 5gal primo water bottles & manual pump, sealable 5gal bucket shitter & trash bags, trash can & trash bags, tent, tarps, rope, med supplies bag, axes, shovels, hi-lift jack, propane lanterns & spare bottles, refill adapter. Probably lots more stuff jic hahahaha. Sockets, wrenches etc Tool kit. Thank you. My question was more about modifying the trailer itself, but this brings up some questions. I’ve looked at those electric coolers. Is there a better type or design? A way to have an outlet in the trailer which runs the cooler of my truck battery when I’m on the road? Originally Posted By juslearnin: You need some sort of water storage and delivery, some way to go to the bathroom, some way to sleep, some way to cook. This could be just some 5 gallon jugs and a shelf for them to sit on or a more serious dedicated water tank and pump. You could buy $100 RV toilet off of Amazon or even something cheaper. The fold out couches/sleeping platforms are very nice if you want to get more serious. Otherwise, inflatable mattress. Portable propane stove. I’ve already got a good propane stove, including adapters to let me use those tiny green camping LP bottles up to larger LP cylinders. But water is important. That’s one area to study. The ability to have collapsible water storage containers that I could fill, plus a pump, is useful. Right now the best I have are those large orange water “jugs” with the hand spout at the bottom. Useful, but there may be better options. |
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Originally Posted By phlat: I'd build in some modularity. Bed(s) you can move/remove, micro kitchen, small diesel heater, a/c (minisplit preferable) then enough storage for whatever you wanna use it for. Some shade options, shitter solution. And power options. Originally Posted By phlat: I'd build in some modularity. Bed(s) you can move/remove, micro kitchen, small diesel heater, a/c (minisplit preferable) then enough storage for whatever you wanna use it for. Some shade options, shitter solution. And power options. I’m a fan of the minisplit idea. The ability to heat and cool the trailer, which is essentially a (roughly) 1k sq ft room (LxWxH), seems really useful. And I really like the shade option. Originally Posted By bionicmonkey: I put etrack in my cargo trailer.. thinking it would be simple enough to have some e-track modules that could go in for that emergency, and come out otherwise, without being a liability (e.g. bouncing around in there) - as noted, you need basics - place to sleep, rations, water, place to poop.. solar if you want to get fancy, but i wouldnt bolt that on permanently myself, more like i'd want a way to have the brackets ready and keep the panel somewhere safe, and be able to pop it up there as needed, put the battery module on an etrack and go... IMO power isnt the biggest concern, most of my trailer would go to space to sleep or would be supplies if sleeping in the truck was the plan. The other thing about solar is that tech improves annually. Welding things in place makes it harder to upgrade when the time comes. Bolting protects things in transit AND makes upgrading that much simpler. 100% on etrack. I already planned that for securing loads, load bar attachment, etc. Originally Posted By juslearnin: Solar on the roof is another thought. This and a battery are much nicer than dealing with a generator and fuel constantly. These panels are expensive but are flexible and also provide power when partially shaded. They can be mounted with VHB tape or adhesive. www.amazon.com/dp/B0FDB6DTZM Thank you for that recommendation! |
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Thank you. My question was more about modifying the trailer itself, but this brings up some questions. I’ve looked at those electric coolers. Is there a better type or design? A way to have an outlet in the trailer which runs the cooler of my truck battery when I’m on the road? Check out the Various brands of power inverters from 100w to 10000w+ that wire onto you vehicles charging system to power 120v items, pretty sure you'll find one that puts out enough power required that'll work. I've got 2 walmart everstart inverters, they've held up well, got them off clearence aisle at near half price. The 100w one plugs into cigarette lighter, my woman uses it to charge battery in or power laptop computer when she's working on something when we're out&about. The 400w one can be wired in or clip to battery or plug into cigarette lighter, I use it to charge battery packs for my ridgid impact drivers when I'm doing carpentry gigs that haven't got service line in yet. Course they make propane fridges too, priced from a few hundred bucks to a few thousand, check those out, you might find one that meets your need. Same as propane instant water heaters, from a few hundred bucks on up. The bunk beds I posted about, look around, they make metal frame/legs models that are approx 32" or 36" wide by 6' long, iirc hold up to 300lbs. I bought 2 sets of them in 14' for my nephews when lived with me cause their mom was ill in/out hospital bout a year, when she got better, they took the bunkbeds with them back to her house. the youngest is iirc 18yo now & still living with his mom & still sleeping in the bunkbed hahahaha. eta: for shelving, you can assemble up foldable shelves out of 1x8",10" or 12"s, or plain jane 1/2", 5/8" or 3/4" plywood ripped to width you want with 1/8" cable on ends or 1"x2" hard board slats under angle to wall. |
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If I was going to have AC / Heat in a trailer with a drop gate and going in and out of it, I would consider this mod. Don't want to watch...plastic flaps like what they use in freezer warehouse door openings.  Simple Freezer Hack WiLL Keep You WARM This Winter |
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Originally Posted By prebans: I’m a fan of the minisplit idea. The ability to heat and cool the trailer, which is essentially a (roughly) 1k sq ft room (LxWxH), seems really useful. And I really like the shade option. The other thing about solar is that tech improves annually. Welding things in place makes it harder to upgrade when the time comes. Bolting protects things in transit AND makes upgrading that much simpler. 100% on etrack. I already planned that for securing loads, load bar attachment, etc. Thank you for that recommendation! Flexible panel tech is well behind silicon solar panels-I use both, but you are going to lose at least a third of your collection potential going with flexible panels. Just know that going in. |
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"Some People Are Like Slinkies. They're Not Really Good For Anything, But They Bring a Smile To Your Face When Pushed Down The Stairs."
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Probable priority order: Fold down bunks/shelves. Bug net on door/vent/window LED lights Mount to secure water containers Cassette toilet Solar setup Wifi node/starlink Water pump & connections (small boat style pump can give you a few gpm for refilling containers or a shower) Heater/AC options Misc: Extra insulation Radio/mesh node Sink |
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Originally Posted By Bubbles: I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. Originally Posted By Bubbles: I would also add emergency response equipment labels to the shelving (propane bottles, camp stove, buddy heater, water filter, water tank, chainsaw, etc.) so that if you do have to head somewhere in a hurry it's less likely you'll leave something behind because you were stressed and forgot it, or you thought it was already on the trailer if the trailer was full of other stuff you wouldn't necessarily want to take with you. I'm assuming most of your emergency response equipment isn't going to live on the trailer since it's multi-purpose. Don't forget tie-downs or cargo netting so the stuff on the shelves stays in place. An awning on the trailer could be useful. IDK about your area but my shooting ranges don't have much shade. Maybe some mosquito netting to hang from the awning. Starlink mini for the truck if you don't have it already. My husband has it in his Jeep and it's invaluable where cell phones don't get service. The labeling idea is great. Not just for emergency stuff, but also for the normal “fling shooting” loadout. It’s too easy to forget stuff and waste (on the good side) hours of the road or (on the bad side) need something in ann ugly situation and not have it. Both an awning and Starlink seem like a wise addition. Thank you! Originally Posted By Bigger_Hammer: Excellent post. We have weatherproof totes preloaded & clearly labeled for camping (or emergency). Cooking, Sanitary, Communication, Sleeping, Clothing, Tools, Tents, etc... ... Attached awning or large tarp(s) w/ poles, lines & pegs for shade definitely a plus for shade from the sun & when it rains too. It enlarges the usable space for cooking, sitting around & storage out of the direct elements. Toilet & water. We have multiple 5 gallon water cans that we can fill from a water purifier. The other side is handled with a folding toilet privacy frame & curtain with a 5 gallon bucket toilet using a seat, lid, plastic liner bags. Bonus is you can use the privacy frame - curtain for a solar shower too. None of these things takes away from regular use of your trailer for everyday "utility" hauling. Starkink Mini-Mobile is incredible! Bigger_Hammer A tote system may be even smarter than having cabinets. They can be moved around while cabinets are usually bolted in place, although it can be harder to secure the totes. I still like the idea. I need to think over the toilet and shower. While I see the utility, I never intended this as a camper setup. It also takes up a lot of interior real estate. Still, useful ideas… Originally Posted By zoe17: I would add some polyiso or similar insulation. Just some R barrier. Lots of good suggestions. Rooftop air or cut vents for the portable AC hoses. I’m absolutely doing insulation and venting, and I’m 99% sure there’ll be a mini split. |
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Originally Posted By TheOtherDave: Solar panels on the roof, charge controller, lithium batteries stored in a metal box on the tongue. Those get used to power 12V fans for ventilation in warmer weather and a diesel heater when it’s cold. Lighting is also a must. Anything past that is per your mission requirements-food, bedding, water filtration, pesticide sprayer for shower and water dispenser etc. I’d have a solar oven for general cooking like in my thread in Survival Gear as well as the oven I reviewed for baking stuff. Typical alcohol stove for boiling water if it’s too cloudy for the solar stove to do it. ETA Mesh screen doors for ventilation and an awning for room to stretch out and not be cooped up in a box. I really need to think on the quasi-camper setup. But I see the wisdom in it. Mesh Door coverings seem VERY wise. And agreed on the awning. Thank you! Originally Posted By Rock_Ranger: - Battery / inverter setup, cover the roof in solar. 500-1000 watts worth, 10kWh or larger batteries. Victron Multiplus-II units can supply 120/240v in parallel config and have a Power Assist feature to boost throughput of a small generator. This would allow the trailer to have ample power on its own or act as an infinite solar generator to power a house. - Water pump/filter/storage system. Take water with you or purify on site. - Chinese diesel heater, cheap abundant heat source - Portable cassette toilet. Cheap and useful. - Fold down bunks. Easy place to sleep in a pinch - LED lighting for interior and exterior. Cheap and useful. - Honda EU2200i. Cheap quiet power to supplement the solar. - 12v compressor frig or compressor cooler. Keep cold food stable in the heat or when traveling. This would cover the basics of shelter, water, power for bugging out or emergency relief. This is beyond what I intended; lots of real estate taken up. But… 1. Already got an EU2200i and the Companion. I’m a huge fan. Having the ability to use them here seems wise. 2. I really need to learn more about solar and batteries. That just seems smart. 3. What are your thoughts on a mini split versus a diesel heater? 4. +1 and some sort of small refrigerator/freezer or one of those electric coolers. Originally Posted By Ndenway1twicetimes: Check out the Various brands of power inverters from 100w to 10000w+ that wire onto you vehicles charging system to power 120v items, pretty sure you'll find one that puts out enough power required that'll work. I've got 2 walmart everstart inverters, they've held up well, got them off clearence aisle at near half price. The 100w one plugs into cigarette lighter, my woman uses it to charge battery in or power laptop computer when she's working on something when we're out&about. The 400w one can be wired in or clip to battery or plug into cigarette lighter, I use it to charge battery packs for my ridgid impact drivers when I'm doing carpentry gigs that haven't got service line in yet. Course they make propane fridges too, priced from a few hundred bucks to a few thousand, check those out, you might find one that meets your need. Same as propane instant water heaters, from a few hundred bucks on up. The bunk beds I posted about, look around, they make metal frame/legs models that are approx 32" or 36" wide by 6' long, iirc hold up to 300lbs. I bought 2 sets of them in 14' for my nephews when lived with me cause their mom was ill in/out hospital bout a year, when she got better, they took the bunkbeds with them back to her house. the youngest is iirc 18yo now & still living with his mom & still sleeping in the bunkbed hahahaha. eta: for shelving, you can assemble up foldable shelves out of 1x8",10" or 12"s, or plain jane 1/2", 5/8" or 3/4" plywood ripped to width you want with 1/8" cable on ends or 1"x2" hard board slats under angle to wall. Thank you! I will look into inverters for my truck. It’s a ram 2500 and I know it has two batteries. I’ll have to see how large it can go without messing up the batteries. Darn things are not cheap! Thank you for the suggestion on shelving. I am redoing some apartments which have storm damage. My original thought was to reuse some of the cabinets. But there’s also a construction difference between cabinets meant to stay in one place and trailer cabinets. I’ll have to see what works best. |
“Don't post anything here or send anything you aren't willing to defend in court.”
-Notcalifornialegal
-Notcalifornialegal
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Originally Posted By bowmanch: If I was going to have AC / Heat in a trailer with a drop gate and going in and out of it, I would consider this mod. Don't want to watch...plastic flaps like what they use in freezer warehouse door openings.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27Gt0TkH6OkThank you! That’s a really great idea. Originally Posted By TheOtherDave: Flexible panel tech is well behind silicon solar panels-I use both, but you are going to lose at least a third of your collection potential going with flexible panels. Just know that going in. I don’t know a thing about solar. So thank you very much for telling me that! I think I might prioritize power generation over flexibility. Transport may get interesting though… I guess I’ve got more thinking to do. Thank you for telling me about this problem! Originally Posted By Mannlicher: I think adding a window or two is an idea. Other than that, I would not do much to it if the primary purpose is just hauling gear. I really want to like the window idea. My problem is that I don’t want people seeing what I’m hauling. I don’t need somebody looking in and seeing my stuff. Now I’m either marked for theft or some Karen makes a “If you see something, say something…” phone call. Been through both and don’t want to go through either ever again.    Originally Posted By raimius: Probable priority order: Fold down bunks/shelves. Bug net on door/vent/window LED lights Mount to secure water containers Cassette toilet Solar setup Wifi node/starlink Water pump & connections (small boat style pump can give you a few gpm for refilling containers or a shower) Heater/AC options Misc: Extra insulation Radio/mesh node Sink Thank you! I don’t want to make this into a camper, but you’ve given me a lot to consider. |
“Don't post anything here or send anything you aren't willing to defend in court.”
-Notcalifornialegal
-Notcalifornialegal
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I almost played this game while trying to get rid of my late fathers assets after he died. He had an enclosed trailer set up for piano moves that I could have kept and set up for a permanently loaded ready to hook up and go if needed. He'd only been using it a couple of years when he had his first stroke and it sat dormant for the next five years until his death. My main concern was a lack of ground clearance with most of those trailers if I expect to have to navigate seasonal and unimproved roads |
*post contains personal opinion only and should not be considered information released in an official capacity*
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Maybe one of those "skylight/vent/fan" things used in campers in the bathroom ceiling. My brief experience with utility trailers is "you need a bump cap or one tall enough not to hit your head". That or lots of padding on the various angle iron and bolts that will stick out at scalping height. |
Mercy on the criminal is cruelty to the innocent.
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Keep it kinda simple and don’t get to niche on any fitouts. If it’s to niche it’s hard to adapt to changing conditions. A way to put solar panels on and store power would be good. Meaning an easy to attach or a permanent mount on the roof and a battery inside that doesn’t get in your way. Also external plug to charge said battery if needed. A solid roof rack you could stand on or carry extra gear might be handy. Spares for the trailer in a tounge box to free up space inside. Basic tools and a spare tire. Air compressor. Tie downs on the inside floor. For what ever. Don’t get fancy with tie downs unless you are going to keep any special adaptors handy. Just use d rings. A way to store items at the roof inside. Think lightweight long or flat items you want but don’t want taking up floor space. A bungee or webbing net. Sea sucker vacuum mounts for attaching a tarp for a vestibule or something to the outside. Maybe just mount a awning. Exterior and interior lights on that can run off the vehicle or trailer battery. Individual switching. Fold down table or something on the wall inside and maybe outside. Solid location to mount a carrier for or at least set and secure fuel and water Jerry cans. Ball lock and good locking latches on doors. Leveling blocks and a wheel chock. Maybe some wall mounted tool boxes with. Quick mounting system like what Milwaukee pack out uses. |
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A buddy and I each modified enclosed trailers, albeit for slightly different uses. We load ATVs ( or snowmobiles or motorcycles), use them as toy haulers, then unload and use the trailer as a redneck RV. We've camped in them a ton.... Here's my observations.... 1) tear out all the interior panels, insulate, and then reinstall the panels. Trust me, it's worth it, even just for condensation management. On the Canadian border, in March, with snow flying, Expanded Poly Styrene with foil (1") in the walls and ceiling will allow a tiny 1500w electric cube heater to keep the trailer low 60s.... 2) add a window.. better yet, add two. Buy RV windows, cut the hole, install. Even a small window allows some visibility outside, offers some natural light. Install a couple of tiny AA powered fans and you can create forced ventilation in tough weather. I used 12w" x 18 h", which give me about 11x8" open screen area, for venting , AND fit between my wall tubing "joists". 3) small buddy heaters are great for quick heat. But Carbon Monoxide is an issue, and condensation is too. The windows above are key. And a carbon monoxide detector 4) electric. On Amazon you can find wall plugs.. it's an interior whip, ending in one or two female extension cord type sockets, and an exterior male plug inside a recessed , covered wall mount. Take your 2000w inverter generator, and connect it directly to the trailer with a simple extension cord. You now have lights, fans, cube heaters, phone chargers, whatever inside your "RV". Highly recommended. Mine was called a shore power plug 5). Screens. Install a simple $20 magnetic door insect screen at man door.. for the larger drop down ramp, run Velcro around the inside of the ramp trim, matching Velcro around a cut to size chunk of screening. You might need to staple the Velcro to the screen to get adhesion. Drop the ramp, press the screen in place. Instant 6 foot by 8 foot vent, which you WILL want in any temps over 80f 6). Buy a few tiny camping AA powered fans.. get air moving... Buy rechargeable batteries, abd conjure up charging. 7) a simple battery jump pack, with charging ports, means lights, phones, batteries etc cab all be recharged. Highly recommend. Brother went a different route... His truck is wired with a small charging system, which tops off a lithium battery bank. "On board" power rules 8) an awning. I have a simple heavy duty tarp, two installed eye hooks, and a couple make shift "tent poles". A little para cord and some tent pegs, and I've got a decent awning. Cooking outside under cover is really awesome when weather sucks 9) jacks. Drop.two cheap jack stands under ramp end. Level with tongue jack. You can load and unload with the trailer disconnected. |
