Need recommendations on buying an enclosed cargo trailer

Howdy folks.

I dont know squat about trailers except that you cant exceed 55mph in CA. I am looking for an enclosed cargo trailer. I have a Toyota highlander that cant pull much of a load but I am trying to buy a cargo trailer. I am going to build it out very lightly. Basically a hillbilly sleeper cabin- not going to load it and haul heavy stuff so I am I  looking for an enclosed 6x10 or maybe a 6x12. I do know that I want a side door though.

I have never bought a  trailer before so I am looking for advise on what to look for as far as how to evaluate trailers. What should I be looking for? Do they require separate insurance in CA? Where to buy?

Please advise,

j

As kuch as it pains me to bang this drum.....
Look at o v e r landing read (+×÷) ass wheelers..
Most are driving sub 1/2 tons and suv'...
You want trailer brakes and a sway control hitch.
Yes I've towed with my avatar before.
But my idi towpig  is mu h more comfortable.

I've thought about doing exactly this.  Buy cargo trailer, install kayak rack on top (or not), basic sleeping quarters inside.  Some basic hard foam insulation glued and screwed to the walls would probably go a very long ways for sound/temperature management at relatively small cost.

Weight is going to be your biggest challenge if towing with a smaller SUV.  Four things to keep in mind to help make your towing experience safe and smooth: total trailer weight, trailer tongue weight (while loaded), your vehicle's payload capacity (printed on a sticker on the inside of your driver door jamb), and trailer length in relation to the tow vehicle wheelbase.  I am happy to elaborate, but Google is your friend and can help you find the right trailer for your goals.  Larger trailers, including some in the size you are considering, have braking systems that require a brake controller in the tow vehicle.  They do tow nicer, but that would be an additional cost to be aware of if you don't already have a brake controller. 

Stuff to look for when buying a used trailer: obvious damage, deck sitting flat when on flat ground, lights all working while plugged into your vehicle, tire tread depth and no cracks in the sidewalls, trailer tongue connection locks onto your tow ball correctly, and has safety chains.  Wheel bearings need maintenance every so often; you should plan to do this anyway if you buy a used trailer.   A spare tire is also a plus.

I had a small utility trailer for a while - I considered installing a rack and a roof top tent also.  But, sold the trailer a few months ago, so not gonna do that now, haha.  It also wouldn't be nearly as stealthy as an enclosed trailer, and with tent you hear every noise around you. 

I've thought about doing exactly this.  Buy cargo trailer, install kayak rack on top (or not), basic sleeping quarters inside.  Some basic hard foam insulation glued and screwed to the walls would probably go a very long ways for sound/temperature management at relatively small cost.

Weight is going to be your biggest challenge if towing with a smaller SUV.  Four things to keep in mind to help make your towing experience safe and smooth: total trailer weight, trailer tongue weight (while loaded), your vehicle's payload capacity (printed on a sticker on the inside of your driver door jamb), and trailer length in relation to the tow vehicle wheelbase.  I am happy to elaborate, but Google is your friend and can help you find the right trailer for your goals.  Larger trailers, including some in the size you are considering, have braking systems that require a brake controller in the tow vehicle.  They do tow nicer, but that would be an additional cost to be aware of if you don't already have a brake controller. 

Stuff to look for when buying a used trailer: obvious damage, deck sitting flat when on flat ground, lights all working while plugged into your vehicle, tire tread depth and no cracks in the sidewalls, trailer tongue connection locks onto your tow ball correctly, and has safety chains.  Wheel bearings need maintenance every so often; you should plan to do this anyway if you buy a used trailer.   A spare tire is also a plus.

I had a small utility trailer for a while - I considered installing a rack and a roof top tent also.  But, sold the trailer a few months ago, so not gonna do that now, haha.  It also wouldn't be nearly as stealthy as an enclosed trailer, and with tent you hear every noise around you. 

Actually sounds like a good idea.  Flush side door, no side windows.  U Hatch or sunroof on top .  Keep it ultra simple and comfy.  Let's seewhat you come up with   I'll even help by sending attaboys once in a while.

Bushy

Maybe a peekhole/rifle slot)

I've thought about doing exactly this.  Buy cargo trailer, install kayak rack on top (or not), basic sleeping quarters inside.  Some basic hard foam insulation glued and screwed to the walls would probably go a very long ways for sound/temperature management at relatively small cost.

Weight is going to be your biggest challenge if towing with a smaller SUV.  Four things to keep in mind to help make your towing experience safe and smooth: total trailer weight, trailer tongue weight (while loaded), your vehicle's payload capacity (printed on a sticker on the inside of your driver door jamb), and trailer length in relation to the tow vehicle wheelbase.  I am happy to elaborate, but Google is your friend and can help you find the right trailer for your goals.  Larger trailers, including some in the size you are considering, have braking systems that require a brake controller in the tow vehicle.  They do tow nicer, but that would be an additional cost to be aware of if you don't already have a brake controller. 

Stuff to look for when buying a used trailer: obvious damage, deck sitting flat when on flat ground, lights all working while plugged into your vehicle, tire tread depth and no cracks in the sidewalls, trailer tongue connection locks onto your tow ball correctly, and has safety chains.  Wheel bearings need maintenance every so often; you should plan to do this anyway if you buy a used trailer.   A spare tire is also a plus.

I had a small utility trailer for a while - I considered installing a rack and a roof top tent also.  But, sold the trailer a few months ago, so not gonna do that now, haha.  It also wouldn't be nearly as stealthy as an enclosed trailer, and with tent you hear every noise around you. 

Actually sounds like a good idea.  Flush side door, no side windows.  U Hatch or sunroof on top .  Keep it ultra simple and comfy.  Let's seewhat you come up with   I'll even help by sending attaboys once in a while.

Bushy

Maybe a peekhole/rifle slot)

Ha, don't have a current plan, but definitely though about this before.  Maybe after kids are out of the house...

The biggest challenge with the highlander will be getting the 7 pin set up. Etrailer has kits, that are most,y plug and play, but you will still need to run a power wire for the trailers brakes (which technically you will need since it is a camper), but practically can skip.

I towed the mtb teams 6x12 cargo trailer filled with crap and water with our old highlander with ease. The trailers themselves are light. You do need to watch how you load them, need that weight centered over axle, etc

I had a similar idea, and really think they are a good economical option for diy travel trailer.  I bought a 6x8 with a rear non-ramp door.  at 5'10 I fit perfectly across width wise, which left a lot of room for storing stuff for camping.  I insulated mine with 1" foam and a very small heater was plenty to keep it warm.

Look at u haul web page they have trailers and there weight. Can rent one for a hour and go tow it. Will let you know how it works with your vechicle . If want to weight it down some use water in plastic bag 8 pounds a gallon