Travels with Bubbles, 2012, Chapter 1: Oregon (long, pic-heavy)

[Funrover]

Pretty sweet!

 

[4x4x4doors]

The AC unit has not worked the 2 or 3 times we've tried to use it and our inclination at this point is to get rid of it entirely as we have only been on one camping trip where it was hot enough to need AC (and even that was only because we were trying to nap during the day.) Getting rid of the AC simplifies electricals and also reduces weight, as well as giving us more useful storage options.

Ventilation is badly needed, though. We got a lot of ideas in Wyoming about how to work that, so it's on the list, too.

I've really been quite pleased with the powered vent roof fan. My setup has air entering at floor level and then up through the top. For you, that involves cutting another hole in the top (which can be scary) and maybe making your lower door window opening with a screen.

 

[Glenn D]

Great Pic's... I have been looking at building a Teardrop for along time... they just look like a ton of fun. I lived in Grants Pass in the early 1980's, and my parents live there now... nice place to stay... Thanks for the trip report..

 

[Adventure IQ]

Awesome! Recognize the mural in Jordan Valley! Been thinking teardrop for a bit

 

[haven]

Interesting report, Martin! Thanks for sharing.

Can you recommend a web site or two for folks who want to learn more about teardrop trailers?

How much does towing your teardrop reduce your mpg? What sort of tow vehicle are you planning to purchase (or already purchased)?

 

[4x4x4doors]

I'm not Martin but would recommend Teardrops and Tiny Travel Trailers (www.tnttt.com) site for both builders and buyers.

 

[shortbus4x4]

What campground did you stay at in Grants Pass? I grew up in N CA and have been through Grants Pass many many times. I love that area.

 

[mkitchen]

I'm not Martin either but;

Teardrops and Tiny Travel Trailers is a very good site and you can also check out TearJerkers. Both are good sites and they will point out more. Folks love to talk about their Tears.

We did a trip to Crater Lake but it was before we got our TD. We were in our tent trailer. Looking forward to going back with the TD. Some great gatherings in the northwest. We went to the IRG, International Redwood Gathering, and it was a lot of fun. When you are travelling in a TD, you are still camping. It is not an RV and I like that about it. We have a SoCal Deluxe and it is pretty much a pavement pounder but we do take it on forestry roads to camp.

I'm sure Martin will agree, a fellow should not get a TD if you like privacy. If you are in a campground, everybody is going to want to see your trailer. Went camping with some friends who have a huge $40,000 camper and everybody walked right by it and came to our camp to see our lowly teardrop. They really are a lot of fun.
Mikey

 

[jim65wagon]

I've really been quite pleased with the powered vent roof fan. My setup has air entering at floor level and then up through the top. For you, that involves cutting another hole in the top (which can be scary) and maybe making your lower door window opening with a screen.

Yes to this. We've got the MaxxAir MaxxFan Deluxe. With the windows and the door windows open just a bit (pulls the air in right across your body) it is more than enough for a comfortable afternoon nap in a Virginia July (that's 100 degrees and high humidity). It actually felt cooler inside the teardrop than it did outside in the hammock. The Deluxe version is hooded, so when it is pouring down rain you can still run the fan without having to keep the teardrop covered with a tarp.

 

[mjmcdowell]

Out of gas!!!!

Martin, Martin..... Just read about your trip with the tear drop, neat trailer great write up (then again yours are always good) but running out of gas..... now that's a hoot!!! :elkgrin: See you in the spring, Michael

 

[Martinjmpr]

What campground did you stay at in Grants Pass? I grew up in N CA and have been through Grants Pass many many times. I love that area.

We stayed at the River Park RV Resort, which was right on the Rogue River. Very nice place!

 

[Mighty Dodge Ram]

Nice write-up...thanks! My in-laws live just outside of Prineville and I'd really like to take some time and explore all of Central Oregon. Sounds as if you had a great trip. :sombrero:

 

[huntsonora]

Well, I'll modify it by saying that's the best breakfast you can get from a convenience store on I-25.

Please tell me where you found the bacon covered maple donut?!?

 

[Martinjmpr]

Please tell me where you found the bacon covered maple donut?!?

I think it was the Circle K at exit 235 on I-25.

 

[teddyearp]

mighty dodge ram, I posted a trip report here where I explored central Oregon in June 2010.