Can you tell us about how you got into the vintage trailer hobby?
I’ve been camping most of my life starting out in a tent, upgraded to a pop-up and now I like the security a trailer. I always gravitate to the vintage/antique style because it has so much character. My house is full of heirlooms and vintage items that create a “homey” feel, so I when I decided it was time to get a camping trailer it was just natural for me to go vintage. I also liked the idea of renovating to fit my style and camping needs.
What type of trailers have you owned and what do you have now? What is your dream vintage trailer?
I have a 1976 Coachmen that I completely renovated and have been camping with for the past 10 yrs. It’s a continuous work in progress as I add more of my personal touches to it. This year I made a big awning to create a large, shaded area during the summer months. Although I do enjoy having friends come with me, over the past few years I’ve been doing more solo camping and I’ve come to enjoy my trailer as a snug little second home.
I also had a 1969 Volunteer that I bought to renovate for my daughter. It was sitting on a farm not far from me and I paid $100 for it. We had to cut down trees to get her out and flatbed her home, but she was worth saving!
My dream trailer is an itty-bitty compact with a front kitchen floor plan. Although my Coachmen is only 14 feet on the floor, I want to go even smaller. I’ve been on the hunt for a compact trailer in the eastern part of the US and I know she’s out there waiting for me!
What do you tow with?
I tow all types of trailers, including horse trailers & hay wagons so my tow vehicle is an F250 SuperDuty truck. It may seem like overkill for towing the Coachmen, but I believe a heavy vehicle is safer for towing, especially in mountain areas. The truck also affords me the ability to bring my kayak & bike with me!
Do you attend rallies and what do you like the most about attending a rally?
I have not attended any Vintage Trailer rallies yet but am planning to do so in 2022. I usually tend to camp in areas that are out of the way and less inhabited, especially off-season camping, but I’m interested to experience a rally & see what it’s all about!
Why did you decide to join the Tin Can Tourists?
I joined TCT because it has a wealth of information for the Vintage Trailer community. I’m always trying to educate myself about renovating and construction products, as well as general information for camping. I like being able to tap into the group whenever I need info, to see other members’ camping adventures or find what’s going on in the vintage camping community.
What are your camping plans for this year?
I’ll be making my usual camping treks into the Pine Barrens of NJ to enjoy kayaking on the rivers throughout the Spring, Summer & Fall months. This year I’ll also be camping with some kayaking groups at Assateague Island, MD and at Trapp Pond, DE. Most of my adventures are usually spontaneous, but I do plan to attend the TCT Rally in NY this year!
Hope to meet you at Sampson and lewarn all about the Finger Lakes Region