The Escapod TOPO2 is a Different Kind of Teardrop Trailer

When you think of a teardrop trailer, you might think of those classic, vintage teardrops from the 1960s. You know, the “canned ham” type trailers with aluminum sheathing around a wood structure and very few amenities inside.

And while those teardrops are definitely still popular, the range of teardrop options runs far and wide. Of course, not all teardrop trailers today are made alike. Instead, some rise to the top of the heap because of unique features that make them a different kind of teardrop trailer.

One such example that we’d like to explore is the Escapod TOPO2. We’ve had several of these trailers in stock recently, and boy, are they impressive! So, let’s use one of our models from the lot as a prime example of what a modern teardrop trailer can - and should - be. 

The Escapod TOPO2 Has an Ingenious Design

As we discussed in our very first feature on the TOPO2, this teardrop trailer has a very special design and build. It’s so unique that it bears another discussion…

Unlike the teardrop trailers of old, the TOPO2 is made from fiberglass. It’s not the first fiberglass trailer by any means, but it is the first fiberglass trailer with a PET core. That’s critically important because this design negates the need for a wood substructure, which is a huge advantage for two reasons.

First, wood is heavy, so eliminating its use allowed Escapod to build a trailer that’s lighter. A lighter trailer is easy to tow, helps your vehicle maintain better fuel mileage, and they’re easy to maneuver as well. Second, no wood means no chance of mold or rot - a great enemy of older teardrop trailers. Instead, the TOPO2 has a PET core made from recycled milk cartons. The core is part of the fiberglass exterior - they’re fused together, which makes the TOPO2 very strong. That strength is an asset for all sorts of camping and overlanding situations, but particularly those adventures that take you off-road and onto rough trails.

 

Smart Features Like a Water Management System Make This Teardrop Trailer Ready for Rough Weather

Related to the ingenious design of this teardrop trailer is the water management system that’s integrated into its fiberglass body.

When you think of older teardrops, you might think of their propensity to leak. These leaks are common at seams in the aluminum skin of traditional trailers, as well as where the wall components meet the roof components. But with the TOPO2, there are no seams for water to invade.

In fact, since the TOPO2 is a one-piece trailer, there are absolutely zero opportunities for leaks. This thing is completely seamless and watertight.

Adding to the value of the water management system is the molded rain gutters Escapod has incorporated into the TOPO2. You’ll find these gutters around the two side door edges and around the rear hatch. This ensures that water and snowmelt are diverted away from these openings to protect the trailer’s interior from water intrusion.

 

But because this is an Escapod trailer, this gutter system has a secret weapon. The rear hatch features dynamic hinges. This is important because when you open the hatch, it moves above the gutter system. Any water that’s on the rear hatch then falls harmlessly onto the roof of the teardrop trailer, where the gutter system catches that runoff and directs it away from the open hatch. Not bad, right?!

This Teardrop Trailer has a “Go Anywhere” Attitude

In our comparison of the TOPO2 Nomad and TOPO2 Voyager, we discussed the off-road prowess of these trailers. Again, the capabilities of this trailer in off-road situations are so impressive that they warrant a further discussion.

The TOPO2’s off-road capabilities start with Escapod’s patent-pending Freeride Suspension System. This system, which was designed in-house by Escapod, was specifically designed to be capable of handling virtually any terrain you might encounter on your adventures.

Proof positive of that is the five inches of independent travel on each wheel. If that doesn’t help you get this trailer through some rough stuff, nothing will!

But the off-road amenities don’t stop there…

In addition to its bulletproof body that’s weatherproof and dustproof, the TOPO2 offers 16-inch wheels, General Grabber ATX all-terrain tires, and nearly two feet of ground clearance. The 35-degree departure angle furthers your ability to tow this trailer into rough territory with less concern about how the ups and downs of the trail might impact the rear of the trailer. The model pictured throughout this article has a couple of added features that make it safer to tow off-road: rock rails and rock guards to protect the trailer from damage as you navigate difficult terrain.

 

The TOPO2 Packs in the Features

The TOPO2 Voyager is no stranger to having plenty of features and amenities that make it a more comfortable teardrop trailer than most. On the one hand, there’s a heated mudroom at each door, so you can take off your muddy shoes without tracking mud and dirt into the trailer.

On the other hand, Escapod has incorporated a luxuriously comfortable queen-sized bed for your comfort. Lay back and let the six-inch memory foam mattress support your aching bones after a long day of hiking, biking, or other outdoor activities. And while you’re lying there, you can take in the sights through the abundance of windows. Not only do the windows - like the 2.5 x 5-foot Stargazer above your head - allow plenty of natural light into the cabin, but they also let you gaze out at the landscape day or night and appreciate the beauty around you.

Other features include ample interior storage, a fully-featured galley (with a sink, countertop, stove, and an ARB 63 Fridge/Freezer), and a 21-gallon water tank, to name a few. The model shown in the images has many other goodies as well:

• A 200 AH lithium-ion battery with a 140-watt solar panel.
• A 12-volt air conditioner and a Truma Combi Eco Plus heater and water heater.
• An outdoor shower.
• A galley enclosure.
• No-see-um door screens and blackout window covers.

Escapod has outfitted the TOPO2 with many other features, too. Check out our video above to see Brody’s top 10 features of this trailer!

A Better Teardrop Trailer Shopping Experience

At this point, it should be clear why the Escapod TOPO2 is a different kind of teardrop trailer. Its design and build quality, number and type of features, and off-road capabilities put it in a class of its own. Without worries of mold and rot, and with the improved maneuverability of a lightweight trailer, the TOPO2 can truly be your escape to the wilderness!

There’s a lot more to learn about the TOPO2, and our experts are ready to help you discover why this teardrop trailer might be the right one for you. We pride ourselves on our knowledge, expertise, and commitment to customer service. So drop by our headquarters just off I-20 in Abilene, drop us a message, or give us a call at 1-888-323-5902 for a better teardrop trailer shopping experience. That’s why BTR - pronounced better - is in our name!