The retrofitting, rebuilding, remodeling, decorating and upgrading of older trailers is growing in popularity throughout the country. Their uniqueness and attractiveness is spreading with a rise of clubs and organizations who display their handiwork during rallies and shows. High-quality workmanship is the norm, and much of the finish craftsmanship is excellent.

These original units have for the most part, been restored with parts and accessories from original trailers, in some cases after years of searching for hard-to-get items. However, some of the acquisitions and re-installations can include now-prohibited items such as propane interior gas lighting, unvented propane space heaters, stove cook tops or range ovens used for comfort or interior space heating. Since many trailers were originally produced before detector requirements, they may not comply with today's recommendations.

Defined as luxury camping or glamorous retro camping, “glamping” campers are found throughout the U.S., Australia, Europe, and other parts of the world. Aside from vintage trailers, this trend includes yurts, some tiny houses, tents and others. Occasionally, some of the retro units are paired with vintage towing cars that are often displayed together. An advertisement for one event only allowed vehicles 25 years or older.

Related: How to protect boaters and their vessels this boating season

Safety standards for trailers

As early as 1940, the National Fire Protection Association had developed a fire prevention standard for trailers. In the 1960s, the Trailer Coach Association evolved into NFPA 501C and is now NFPA 1192 Recreational Vehicles. NFPA 1192 is published and revised by committee action, and proposals are voted on approximately every three years. Inspections occur when units are new, and are handled by the factory, Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and various state governmental organizations. Manufacturers adhere to this standard for the safety for the purchaser.