Full-timing it with teenagers?? Are we crazy?

wanderlustfam wrote:
We are considering packing up and going full time as a family of 5 and our dog. We have always homeschooled so that is not an issue, my work schedule is on 2 weeks off 2 weeks. So we would have to stay at a RV park near work half of the time and travel the other 2 weeks. Not very many people are approving of this idea, mostly due to them thinking we are traumatizing our kids. We would be moving from a 3000 sf house into either a 5th wheel or possibly class A- thor and newmar both have toy haulers we are considering. Have we lossed our adult minds and just living in a dream? Our kids think it would be awesome and are all adventurous and love the outdoors. But reality is we are all used to luxury and space. I'm concerned what happens if we regret it, we can't get our home back. Any advice for someone who desperately has wanderlust and we are all ready to pack up, put the sign in the yard, and go. BUT the what if's have us hesitant.

Also would love some full-timers with kids advice, is it a struggle? class A or 5th wheel? What are some must haves in a RV when living full time?

Ok, from the reply earlier you've pretty much made up your mind. I did not full time with kids, so I can't answer your specific questions regarding that. My father spent 22 years in the Army and most of that was when I was young.

Moving around did have an impact on me, I didn't make many long-term friends and I am only semi-social as a result. I still do not make many friends and don't like too many people. But that's part of any military life and that's my personal experience.

When our family made the final move from Alaska back to Minnesota, Dad didn't have a readily available house here. We stayed in a 24 foot Minnie Winnie for part of the summer and into fall while our entire family rebuilt an old house. I will say, 4 people in a non-slide RV for 6 months is pretty tight. 5 people in a big 5th wheel or Class A with slides is marginally better.

I think people don't always understand - the military family already has a sense of solidarity and loyalty. What you're describing is not easy but I'm willing to bet it can be done. The only negative is the teenage years are some of the most difficult. If you can make each child a personal space, it might be easier.

If all your children are teenagers keep in mind they may say they like the idea. Sure teenagers can be adventurous. Only you can make the decision on whether or not this will be good for them - or detrimental.

And keep in mind the old saying about advice...

"Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn't."