One of the great things about owning a Hiker Trailer is that it is basically sold bare bones. It is not move-in ready. This is perfect for me as I would rather customize things myself. The one thing that the trailer came with that I didn’t want was decals. I hate dealer stickers! It was the first thing I did to “Improve” our trailer. The hiker trailer company loves to advertise on their product. I don’t blame them; they are good products. But I believe in word-of-mouth advertisement. The stickers are quite huge vinyl decals located all over visible body. Since they are vinyl, they are easy to remove with a little heat. That gave me an excuse to get a hot air gun. I am not against vinyl stickers, just dealer stickers. So, I did some research online and found a company that sells vinyl sticker sheets. Bought a roll that matches the colour of my Tacoma. “XCAPE POD 85” is now pasted on one side.
The trailer has windows, but no coverings. So made some curtains. I bought some fabric at Joann’s and a little wood from Lowes and some leather from Hobby Lobby. I think it turned out nice.
It has cubbies for storage. But no doors. So, I made doors. One pair for me and one for my lovely wife. Used marine grade door pulls and a little woodwork to personalize.
Best of all the trailer comes with a “Pantry” in the back. Basically, it’s a closet with two shelves. Which is fine for some people. Put your stuff inside and off to the camp site. But I wanted more organization.
Again, I did some research online (Including Facebook) and found several people who did some nice pull-out cabinets. So, I did some drawings and started to build. I think it turned out well, but I did go overboard on the wood. 9 ply ¾” marine grade plywood is probably overkill. Latching drawer slides are awesome.
This pulls out 24 inches and serves as a cutting board/table/sink.
Then the stove pulls out another 24″. The propane tank is held on the back side with magnets.
Below the stove is the drawer for dishes. This is also available from the top when closed by removing the cutting board. You can’t get to the dishes with the stove pulled out. The cutting board is removed when you want to put in a sink. I have a collapsible bucket that fits perfectly into the same hole.
The last bit are lights. I had to put a string of any colour LED lights in the pantry to match my mood and make it easier to find snacks. Installed a light switch that was lighted itself so I can find it in the dark. Also added two more running lights to the back. Trailer lights are so low that I get concerned about tailgaters not getting the hint.
After installing an 8’ semiautomatic awning to the roof rack, I think we are all set for some serious camping.
Next up…. Solar battery charger and a roof rack mounted water tank.
Prairie Flounder 