When you love the off-road adventure life of ATV and side-by-side culture in New England's north woods, you might spend your trailside nights camping. When you're already towing a trailer, what's the best way to create a cozy, weather-proof campsite wherever you go?

It's your ALCOM trailer! Our enclosed UTV, car, and cargo haulers have available upgrades to make your trailer work even harder. Windows, doors, vents, power and light packages, cabinets, tie-downs, and so much more. You could even add a bed or sleeper sofa to your trailer when you purchase it! 

But if you prefer to get creative and make a custom camping setup, ALCOM trailers are perfect for that, too. Start with our enclosed trailers -- a classic cargo hauler or a UTV/ATV model -- and create the custom solution you want at your pace and on your budget.  

We talked with ALCOM customer Ted McLaughlin, from Maine, about custom outfitting his enclosed aluminum trailer for camping -- from choosing a Stealth aluminum trailer from ALCOM through adding the finishing touches for boondocking in the Maine woods! 

How did you choose ALCOM enclosed ATV trailers for your camper setup? 

Actually, my son wanted one and explained to me how a few of his friends utilized these enclosed trailers not only for a toy hauler, but also for camping, portable shop on wheels, and just general hauling.

After tons of fun research, we decided on the ALCOM Stealth/Commander all aluminum trailer from Big Tex Trailer World in Winslow.

Price, functionality and even appearance were factors. We chose a charcoal 7’x12’ model with a 2’ V-nose. It’s 7’ high with a ramp door. Unit has dual axles and that's about it for add-ons. Then the fun began!

How did you get started turning an aluminum trailer into a camper? 

It was initially my son’s trailer, but being retired, then watching too many YouTube videos, I started customizing the unit to help him. First was the window, then roof vent, E-track wall system, and corner tie-downs. 

Unfortunately for my son, I discovered that my side by side would fit in nicely – so I started "borrowing" his unit for UTV/camping trips around the state. At first, air mattresses on the floor, etc. did the trick. My wife loved it for the “tiny cabin” feel of it. 

What came next in your customization process? It looks like you have a really cool setup. 

After a few uses, we started the upgrades. Front table with sink, insulated ceiling, floor access port for power, swing-down tables and shelves, lighting, cassette toilet and privacy curtain – and the collapsible bed with tri-fold mattress. We also added a ton of smaller details, like numerous coat and hat hooks, rubber floor, and a magnetic screen for the door. 

After all the mods, my son decided that we should buy the trailer from him and he would actually purchase his own unit. He has a 7’x16’ ALCOM Stealth unit that has a window and floor tie-downs installed at the factory. 

Tell us about the essentials for a project like this, in your opinion - like safety or power features.  

I consider a smoke alarm, carbon monoxide and fire extinguisher a must. A window, door with screen, and factory flow-through vents give plenty of fresh air. The only time we use the roof vent is in extreme heat.

We have no combustion type appliances, and use only a 1500W electric heater or an outside diesel heater when no power is available. We typically use campgrounds with power but will be soon using the trailer for "boondocking" – incorporating our solar panels and EcoFlow power pack.

Did you run into any challenges setting up the trailer? 

Not really. I just did research, combining Google searches and YouTube, and simply had a blast installing all the various add-ons! It helps to have prior experience with DIY construction projects, especially for the window and roof vent. 

What advice would you give a fellow UTV enthusiast looking to set up their trailer for camping? 

Everyone has different uses and objectives with their enclosed trailer. Do the research, talk to the dealer, and definitely check out YouTube to see what other enthusiasts have done with their units!

Joining Facebook groups like ATV Maine or Maine ATV Trail Riders is also a great resource to connect with other off-road enthusiasts. 

Are there any trails or campgrounds you love and recommend? 

We love the Aroostook County trail systems – typically camping at Lakeview Campground in St. Agatha or Birch Point Campground in Island Falls.

Looking for an ATV/UTV Trailer? 

We loved talking with Ted about his DIY trailer upgrade! The before and after photos are an incredible example of just how creative you can get with an enclosed aluminum trailer makeover. With rust-resistant, weight-saving aluminum, our trailers are designed to out-perform steel competitors, and more vehicles can tow them.  With an enclosed aluminum trailer, some research and the right tools, you can create a space that's all your own. 

Are you ready to join Ted and other happy ALCOM customers on the trails? Don't miss out on finding the perfect adventure trailer for your next side by side trip. Available with just the basics so you can do all the upgrades yourself -- or with a full set of options like lights, power, cabinets and more -- ATV and UTV trailers from ALCOM are ready to roll.

ALCOM has six manufacturing sites across the United States, and over 500 dealers across the USA and Canada. Wherever you are in North America, ALCOM has the trailer you need and our dealers are ready to help you find it! 

All Photos Courtesy of Ted McLaughlin