Key Takeaways
- Converting a cargo trailer into a camper allows for complete customization and is a cost-effective alternative.
- Fold-down beds, convertible sofa beds, and bunk beds maximize space and functionality.
- Elevated beds with storage and loft beds offer efficient use of vertical space.
- Murphy, slide-out, and modular bed systems provide versatility and convenience.
- Hammock and futon beds offer unique and adaptable sleeping solutions for cargo trailer campers.
Have you ever contemplated converting a freight trailer to a camper? Nowadays, an increasing number of campers prefer this low-cost choice.
However, carrying out a cargo trailer conversion on your own is inexpensive and allows you complete control over the design of your camper. A cargo trailer is like a blank canvas; you can customize it to meet your needs and tastes. Create the floor layout of your desires and only install equipment you can trust.
In this blog, we will tell you about 10 cool DIY cargo trailer bed ideas and how to make them!!
10+ Cargo Trailer Bed Ideas
Fold-Down Bed with Storage
- Frame Construction: Make a robust bed frame out of wood. Make sure it fits the dimensions of your trailer.
- Hinge Installation: Attach hinges to one side of the frame, allowing the bed to collapse against the trailer wall.
- Support Legs: Install foldable legs on the opposite side of the frame to provide support when the bed is in use.
- Storage: Add storage compartments beneath the bed frame to better use space.
- Mattress Placement: When not in use, place the mattress on top of the frame and attach it with straps.
Convertible Sofa Bed
- Sofa Frame: Make or buy a convertible sofa to meet your trailer’s size.
- Mounting: Secure the sofa to the trailer floor to keep it from moving while traveling.
- Backrest Conversion: Make sure the backrest can fold down to create a flat sleeping area.
- Cushion Arrangement: Use cushions that are suitable for both sitting and sleeping.
- Securing Mechanism: Use straps or locking devices to hold the bed in position while driving.
Bunk Beds
- Height: Measure the trailer’s height and cut wooden planks for the bed frames.
- Frame Assembly: Put together two-bed frames for the top and bottom bunks.
- Support Structure: Build a strong support system using vertical posts and horizontal crossbars.
- Ladder Installation: Attach a ladder to get to the top bunk.
- Mattress and Safety: To avoid falls, place mattresses on both bunks and add safety rails on the top bunk.
Murphy Bed
- Wall frame: Make a wall-mounted structure that can hold the bed when folded up.
- Hinge mechanism: Install a hinge mechanism at the bottom of the frame so that the bed can fold down.
- Bed Frame: Build the bed frame to meet the dimensions of the wall frame.
- Support Legs: Include foldable legs to help support the bed while it is down.
- Mattress and Securing: Place a mattress on the bed frame and fasten it with straps or clips when folded.
Slide-Out Bed
- Build a base platform to accommodate the slide-out bed mechanism.
- Heavy-duty sliding rails should be installed on both platform sides to ensure smooth operation.
- Build a bed frame that fits between the slide rails.
- Attach handles or grips to the bed frame for simple pulling out and pressing in.
- When stowing away a mattress, place it on the bed frame and fasten it with straps.
Elevated Bed with Storage
- Platform Base: Create a raised platform base out of solid wooden timbers.
- Support Legs: To increase stability, place support legs at each corner.
- Storage Cabinets: Place cabinets or drawers beneath the elevated platform.
- Bed Frame: Build a bed frame to fit on top of the platform.
- Mattress and Safety Rails: Place the mattress on the bed frame and, if necessary, add safety rails.
Hammock Bed
- Anchor Points: Install strong anchor points on opposite trailer walls, ensuring they are securely fastened to structural elements.
- Hammock Selection: Select a strong hammock that can support the desired weight.
- Hammock Installation: Using strong carabiners or hooks, attach the hammock to its anchor points.
- Height Adjustment: Make sure the hammock is suitable for entry and exit.
- Stowaway Option: Add hooks to suspend the hammock out of the way while not in use.
Loft Bed
- Measure the trailer’s height and cut wooden planks for the loft frame.
- Install vertical support posts at each corner of the loft area.
- Make a platform for the mattress out of sturdy wooden boards.
- Attach a ladder to provide easy access to the loft bed.
- Install safety railings around the loft to prevent falls while sleeping.
Futon Bed
- Futon Frame: Buy or build a futon frame to meet the measurements of your trailer.
- Mounting: Secure the futon frame to the trailer floor to avoid movement.
- Folding Mechanism: Ensure the futon converts smoothly from a sofa to a bed.
- Mattress and Cushions: Use a comfy futon mattress and pillows for sitting and sleeping.
- Securing Straps: Use straps to keep the futon in place when traveling.
Modular Bed System
- Design Layout: Create a modular bed system with individual components that can be moved around.
- Frame Construction: Use solid timber frames to assemble many bed parts.
- Connection mechanism: Install secure connection mechanisms (such as hooks or brackets) between the segments.
- Mattress Segments: Cut a mattress into portions that will fit the modular bed segments.
- Rearrangement Options: Make sure the segments can be simply reconfigured to make a bed, sofa, or individual seats as needed
How Do You Turn A Cargo Trailer Into A Camper?
- Design a floor layout and consider everything: bed, kitchen, bathroom, and more.
- Determine how the electrical system, plumbing, and heating/AC will function and where they will be installed.
- Rip out the walls.
- Cut holes for windows, skylights, and extra doors, then install them
- Weatherproof your windows and doors.
- Install the electrical system.
- Add insulation and flooring.
- Install fans.
- Put up the walls and ceiling.
Conclusion
Cargo trailer conversions are an excellent choice for minimalist, practical campers searching for a cost-effective method of getting on the road. To execute a conversion job, you will need plenty of patience, time, and good DIY abilities.
