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Teardrop campers were a common sight in the 1940's, often built by returning WWII veterans out of surplus aircraft aluminum. The first teardrops were built by DIY woodworkers in their backyard shops. Magazines in the 1930's-1950's, such as Mechanix Illustrated, published detailed plans for building teardrops. There were very few commercial manufacturers of teardrops during this time period, but there were a few. Since most of the teardrops were custom made, they were all unique with lots of personality. Some were simple hunting campers, and some were elegant and followed the bold lines and fishtails of the automobiles of that time period. In the years that followed, teardrops began to disappear as gas prices dropped, cars become more powerful, and RV's grew to gigantic proportions. By the 1970's, very few teardrops were being commercially built.
The 1990's saw the resurgence of teardrop trailers. Modern gas prices, a slow economy, and an environmental consciousness have catapulted teardrop trailers back on the road. Teardrop trailers are durable, affordable, cozy, and comfortable. They can have most of the amenities you find in larger RV's, at a fraction of the cost(and a fraction of the carbon footprint). They can be towed by almost any vehicle, including many 4 cylinder cars, trucks, and vans. Teardrops can fit in any garage, parking spot, or campground location. Teardrops also make a great guest bedroom, man cave, or bug out room at your house...my guests love to "camp out" when they visit. Owning a teardrop grants you access to an elite club of proud teardrop owners that regularly hold meetings/camp outs/functions around the US. Owning a teardrop also means that you will soon meet new friends....every time you tow your camper people will want to know all about it!
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These days, there are many commercial manufacturers in the teardrop game. Little Guy(affordable) and Camp-Inn(luxury) seem to be the largest companies making teardrops. Of course, custom DIY teardrops are still being made by folks all over the world. There are many online forums that provide tons of instructions and advice if you'd like to make your own. (www.tnttt.com)
My version of a teardrop trailer is called the COMANCHE COCOON. The cabin is is 5' wide, 8' long, and 4' high. Approximate dimensions of entire camper including wheels, and tongue: 6 high, 11 long, 7 wide. It weighs about 1400 pounds. It includes an LCD TV/DVD, interior lights, cupholders, interior storage, lighted kitchen galley in the back, air conditioning, 12-volt roof fan/vent, AC and DC power options, on board battery charger, baby moon hubcaps on 15 inch wheels, custom wood accents, custom wood bumper, extra long California king mattress...and an XBOX 360.
The Comanche Cocoon off grid in Wyoming