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bowler1's avatar
bowler1
Explorer
Nov 09, 2017

5th Wheel Suggestions for Full Time Family???

Hi,
We are considering living full time for a couple of years and have 4 small children (3,1,1, and a baby). I am in the Army and not sure where I will be going, but probably in the D.C. area where the weather is not extreme, but will see sub-freezing temps.

Given our family size we want adequate room for the kids' sleeping arrangements, and still want to have adequate seating in the living area--at least a couch and two recliners or theater seats. I can't deal with only a single love seat like most bunk rooms have.

I currently am leaning heavily toward the Open Range 3x427bhs since it meets this criteria. I have seen few other options that meet the criteria above and that have adequate storage.

We are not opposed to a toy hauler. They seem like a reasonable option, but I don't want to get a dually and it seems that their weight is pushing the limits of a single axle truck.

I will be pulling it with a 1 ton diesel single axle truck, which I have not yet purchased.

thanks for your help!

Matt


We will be pulling it with a 1 ton diesel single axle.

thanks for your help

Matt

14 Replies

  • Also... have you looked into places to stay long-term? Most military campgrounds have stay limits. A few make exceptions if you're on orders. Many trailer parks that allow RVs long-term are not places I would want to raise kids, either. Making payments on a truck, RV, and paying monthly rates with utilities in a commercial park will not be any cheaper than a decent apartment or rental house.

    Rob
  • Also get tough real quick to take 6 in a pickup.

    For the size you are talking about, you are looking at a 1ton SRW minimum and probably a DRW.

    Are you trying to save money? The cost of a new truck and trailer will kill you especially when you consider depreciation.
  • azdryheat wrote:
    I'll be blunt and up front: four kids living full-time in a 5th wheel doesn't sound inviting. I'd be taking that $2,000 plus military BAH and putting it towards an apartment or house rental. Kids need room to grow and 400 ft/sq isn't enough. Sorry if my post doesn't sit well with some.


    I agree also. :)
  • I'll be blunt and up front: four kids living full-time in a 5th wheel doesn't sound inviting. I'd be taking that $2,000 plus military BAH and putting it towards an apartment or house rental. Kids need room to grow and 400 ft/sq isn't enough. Sorry if my post doesn't sit well with some.