Question to Clarify

There are so many directions a build can go. Open and minimalist, complete and off-grid, fancy and finished and on and on… As a build progresses, if you are like us, it can take on a life of its own. As we build we do a considerable amount of ad libbing.

We have to keep budget in mind (we are waaay over at this point) and because of this, we are focussing on getting the essentials installed to make it useable for our original purpose of living off grid for extended time.

At the time of this writing we are about 2/3 the way complete. Almost everything is roughed in and we have a very clear picture of what the final results will be.

We are asking ourselves these questions as we go through the build: Do we really need cabinet doors? How much trim is necessary? What needs painted? We’re trying to cut costs while making sure we build a very functional camper that can be taken off grid for weeks at a time and one that doesn’t lose comfort while cutting costs. 

It is a tight rope we are walking.

What Do We Really Need? 

We are using the “Happy Wife Method” here to figure out what is needed. 

Each is noted with a short note explaining how close we came to accomplishing the goal.

• First and foremost, a functioning bathroom including a shower, flushing (not compost) toilet and a sink with a mirror.
  • NOTE: Nearly complete.
  • 100% Accomplished.
• A comfortable bed.
  • NOTE: Haven’t picked up the mattress so unsure at this time.
  • % TBD.
• Storage (for Alison’s shoes?)
  • NOTE: There will be a lot of storage and closet space but unsure if her mountain of shoes will fit.
  • 70% Accomplished.
• A galley that includes a sink with a window and sufficient counter space for doing dishes and prep work.
  • NOTE: On paper it looks like there will be just enough space to accomplish this. Haven’t built the kitchen yet.
  • % TBD.
• Open floor plan that doesn’t feel too crowded.
  • NOTE: With all the other requirements this one is a little tricky. Time will tell.
  • 80% Accomplished.
• Enough windows to let plenty of light in.
  • NOTE: There are 3 windows measuring 36″ x 36″ plus the back ramp will be able to open into a patio
  • 100% Accomplished.

Here’s what I needed to make this cargo trailer build functional. While Alison’s requirements are a mix of function and form, mine are purely functional (don’t tell her I said that!).

• Weight distribution. Planning ahead to ensure proper balance of weight.
  • NOTE: I haven’t been on a scale since we started the build but I think everything is fairly well balanced.
  • % TBD.
• Enough solar (solar panels, batteries, other components) to run the fridge and mini-split AC continuously.
  • NOTE: 800 amp hours of battery, up to 2400 watts solar panels.
  • 90% Accomplished.
• Large refrigerator/freezer to keep enough food for a few weeks.
  • NOTE: 20 cu. ft. should suffice.
  • 100% Accomplished.
• Fresh water supply large enough to last at least 3 weeks.
  • NOTE: 75 gal. onboard and 100 gal. backup on the truck plus plans to use condensed water from AC should more than meet the needs.
  • 100% Accomplished.
• Black and grey tanks sufficient to last at least 3 weeks.
  • NOTE: 40 gal. black tank plus 30 gal. tote with a macerator pump should work.
  • 100% Accomplished.
• Efficient mini-split air conditioner / heat pump with a second source of heat for backup.
  • NOTE: 12,000 btu / 1168 watts (while running) capable of cooling 750 sq ft should work well (maybe overkill) with the solar setup, insulation and 170 sq ft space. There’s also a backup diesel heater.
  • 100% Accomplished.

What are your priorities / needs? Are you ok with a composting toilet or maybe prefer it? Do you need solar or do you plan on only staying in campgrounds? Do you and your spouse have different requirements? What are your thoughts about Form and Function? How do you strike a balance between the two?