Photo: PinDrop Travel Trailers
Whenever I come across a trailer or camper manufacturer I’ve never heard of, I like to share the news with you. In the meantime, I dig a little deeper into how they do things and the type of machines the brand can produce. With that in mind, it’s time to explore the one and only PinDrop Travel Trailers, a manufacturer that touches my heart.
In 2018, North America saw the birth of none other than PinDrop Travel Trailers, an RV manufacturer from good ol’ Arizona. Yes, they are a 100% American team, and when you consider that they have managed to survive in an industry already dominated by countless other brands with decades of history, it’s clear that they are doing something right. It’s time to see what all the fuss is about.
Now, being a proverbial family-run RV shop, one interesting thing to consider about PinDrop is the process they go through to bring your dream unit to life. According to the manufacturer's website, there are four different layouts available. However, they all rely on the basic PinDrop design.
The Vintage is that model, and as you work your way up the ladder of features and upgrades, you’ll pass the Road Runner and Scout to finally find yourself in a unit that’s very much in keeping with the region it was created in, the El Diablo. If you’ve ever been to Arizona, you’ll agree that’s a fitting name.
Photo: PinDrop Travel Trailers
Since the Vintage is technically the base for all the other models, I think that’s the one we need to focus on. Not to mention, it’s also the least expensive, starting at no more than $28,480 (€25,700 at current exchange rates) with VAT included. While some readers might argue that this is a pretty steep price to pay for a teardrop camper, I urge you to read on; don’t judge a book by its cover.
Like most other campers out there, the Vintage starts with nothing more than a steel frame, to which PinDrop adds a Dexter 3500 Axle suspension. If you choose to move up the layout ladder to the Diablo, this setup is swapped out for an axleless setup for tackling rough terrain. Be sure to factor in the under-mounted spare tire when exploring off-road.
Moving up the Vintage, we come to the shell. Here, PinDrop makes a body that features closed-cell insulation and is rated up to R-15, so with a heater, you might very well be able to venture into the colder months with this one, a plus for those of us who like to snowboard or ski.
An interesting side to the hull’s history is its galley. Now, I won’t lie; I was surprised to see a galley set up very similar to those spotted on Australian teardrop campers, ready with features and systems installed on slide-outs.
Photo: PinDrop Travel Trailers
So when it’s finally time to call it a night or two, you’ll be able to prepare your meals with a two-burner stovetop, refrigerator and freezer, sinks and faucets, 12 gallons of fresh water, and a few more accessories that will be included as you upgrade to a more fully equipped configuration.
For a moment, imagine yourself in the presence of this kitchen, with your significant other putting the finishing touches to your campsite while you prepare dinner that you will eat as the sun sets and you admire the valley below. Enjoy! Maybe you want to crank up that Fosgate sound system while you enjoy the show.
But what kind of camping is it if you can’t tear yourself away from the caravan park? Well, that seems to be how PinDrop sees things because even the most standard layout, the Vintage, includes an off-grid power installation. Overall, prospective owners can expect 180W of standard solar panel power and a 315Ah battery. In total, up to 360W can be fitted to the roof of these beauties.
The rest of the exterior of a PinDrop camper can also support a variety of add-ons. One of these is an awning, and another is a bathroom enclosure. Others include gas tanks and holders, storage boxes, and, my favorite, roof racks. The latter is essential for those of us planning e-bike rides in the middle of nowhere and kayaking on lakes.
Photo: PinDrop Travel Trailers
After a long day of exploring, you’ll return to a camper that’s worked its magic, soaking up the sun’s energy, keeping your food fresh and cool, and waiting for you with an interior that’s sure to give you the night’s rest you’ve been looking for.
Take off your shoes and muddy clothes, climb inside, turn on the reading lights or sound system and enjoy a good night's sleep. If the local wildlife is not dangerous, sleep with the side doors open and a cool breeze flowing through the cabin.
Be sure to also check out the features added to your Vintage under the more expensive layouts; you may find a camper that you will enjoy for seasons to come, maybe even longer. One thing to consider is that PinDrop allows you to customize your unit, so be sure to ask them what it takes to break the mold they show on their website.
Until next time, enjoy the ride and don’t forget to comment on what you just witnessed: What did you think of that kitchen? What else would you add to your unit? How much are you willing to pay for your dream car? These are just a few questions to get you started.