Families on the road

Families who want (or need) to start living life on the road face special challenges that aren't seen by the rest of the vanlife crowd. Things are fairly manageable for those who can just do it part time and can live at a conventional sticks-and-bricks home the rest of the year, but those living nomadically full time have to make a number of adjustments to make things work!

Vehicle choice

In general, families who live on the road need large vehicles like motorhomes or skoolies. When deciding on what vehicle features are needed, families may place more weight on living space, passthrough, and emergency exits.

Families often tow a travel trailer. Many will bring tents to allow more use of outdoor space. Sometimes, larger families will travel in two vehicles, with one parent driving each vehicle. For example, all children might ride with mom in a passenger van while dad follows with whatever vehicle is big enough for everyone to sleep.

Seating

Part-time nomads and campers who want a campervan like a Sprinter or ProMaster will want to shop for the "crew" version of those vans. These include seating behind the front driver and passenger seats.

Beds

In family vehicles, more beds are needed. These vehicles will often include convertible beds (such as Rock N Roll beds that switch between automotive bench seat and bed), bunk beds, slides, and a pop-up roof with a bed in it.