A teardrop trailer is essentially a camping trailer except that it has a streamlined “teardrop” shape. It was quite popular from the early 1930s to the mid 1970s. It is comfortable, convenient and relatively compact in comparison to a regular camping trailer. The trailer has enough room for two people to comfortably sleep inside. An external hatch or compartment outside the sleeping area is often used to house cooking equipment (galley) and eatables.

Generally, a teardrop trailer would include lighting along with an additional power source such as a battery or an alternate power hookup. Most of the trailers vary in sizes ranging from 8 to 10 feet in length, 4 to 6 feet in width and almost 5 feet in height. Small trailers have their set of wheels constructed outside the main body and are covered by fenders whereas larger trailers have wheels built inside the body.

Owners of teardrop trailers usually organize or actively participate in gatherings or camping events where other teardrop trailer owners are invited. Not limited to North America, teardrop trailers are also immensely popular and actively manufactured and used in countries like England, Australia, and Germany.

Teardrop trailers are quite light, weighing in at approximately 1000 pounds (450 kg). Most vehicles such as 4x4s, minivans, jeeps, classic cars, pickup trucks, hot rods, and even some heavy motorcycles such as Harley-Davidsons and Honda Goldwings can tow teardrop trailers conveniently. In New Zealand and Australia, teardrop trailers are quite popular and are towed using trikes (tricycles). The primary appeal and the main reason for the popularity of teardrop trailers is that they facilitate a more uncomplicated lifestyle, away from the chaos of the city, closer to nature.