Concerning ‘Tin Can Tourism’

Jul 23, 2013 | 5 comments

1947 Kenskill

1947 Kenskill

I’m not a big fan of camping.  Or of roughing it.  Not that I haven’t done my share.  But I put it all in the category of ‘when I was young and foolish’ and feel that I long ago grew out of such strenuous activities.

I am now into ‘creature comforts’ which definitely lets out tent camping, car camping, RV camping, and even certain ‘bedpost and doorknob’ hostelries.  Been there, done that.  So falling in love with the 1947 Kenskill tear drop trailer at the Concours d’Elegance this past weekend came as a complete surprise.

First, it was cute, cute, cute in that retro way that is so appealing.  Like airstream trailers, but a teeny tiny version.  And it was so well thought out.  “A place for everything and everything in its place,” as my father always advocated.

Teardrop Trailer

Teardrop Trailer Kitchen

Granted, you’d have to be agile to fold yourself into the double bed – but it looked so inviting and snug.  The kitchen couldn’t have been more compact and yet, it was probably a two- or three-butt affair, given the fact that the chef(s) would be standing out in the open.  The only downside, as far as I could see, was the lack of accommodation for bathroom needs.   Maybe not a problem in these days of spiffy campgrounds and roadside rests?

Mostly, though, I think the miniature camping trailer appealed to my little-girl-dollhouse memories.  It would be fun to look at and to play with but I can’t quite imagine actually using it as a practical method of touring.  Not like the members of the Tin Can Touring Club.

Yes, indeedy!  There is actually a group of folks who advocate this form of travel! They are “committed to the celebration of classic trailers and motor coaches” according to their website.  Hats off to them!  I love it that they are giving us lookyloos so much pleasure in a nostalgic, sentimental sort of way.   I wish them Happy Travels!

5 Comments

  1. Caroline Miller

    Never knew the miniature camping trailer existed. How clever. Still, I prefer a 4 star hotel.

    Reply
  2. Nancy

    As years accrue, the camping experience fades. Yes, I do recall in the days of poverty when camping was a much looked forward to vacation! These days, as a grammy approaching 80, I enjoy the Best Western Plus or a similar venue for those overnights when we are “on the road”…Creature comforts increase in their desirability and need as joints remind of calcification and number of supplements ingested increases. Given a choice, there’s no place like home…..

    Reply
  3. Jo

    The tear drop trailer is adorable…but I’m with you in appreciating my creature comforts!

    Reply
  4. Stephanie Frieze

    Were I younger I would totally want one of these little cuties! My son nearly bought one, but ended up with a ’70s vintage trailer that his family has outgrown. I am advocating a tent trailer with the two queen beds for them. Personally, if we ever can afford a trailer it will be a bunkhouse model so that Amy gets her own digs.

    Reply
  5. Jane

    As I read your journal, I am enjoying the “clamping” experience in our newly purchased 23 foot travel trailer. This is our 5th trip out. We are currently in southern Oregon. We are having so much fun and are exploring places we could not otherwise get to. I am a newly retired educator, not much younger than you, Sydney. This is not like the old days of tent camping. Oops, excuse me while I spray on some Cutter. Some things never change. Jane

    Reply

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