Teens On the Road Perspective
Following the Going-To-The-Sun-Road through Glacier National Park, MT
My name is Connor.
I am 18 years old, and I live full-time on the road in a veggie-powered RV. Being a teenager on the road can be difficult at times, but is also full of rewards. I am writing this so you may get an idea of what my life is really like, from an inside perspective.
Hiking in Palo Duro Canyon State Park near Amarillo, TX
First off ima start by saying that this choice isn’t for everyone.
That said, it is a choice I would make over and over again. I’ve learned more from traveling than I would have staying in one place. You become more aware, more adaptable to whatever environments you are in. At least for me, you also get a sense of adventure! XD
Overlooking Puget Sound from Whidbey Island, WA.
The ability to go where you want is freeing. I don’t have a 5-year plan, and sometimes not even a 5-week plan. The knowledge of not knowing can be scary for some, but I prefer to think of it as exploring.
The upside of going full-time is that you get to see the world on your own time, you get the experience of moving a home (among other things), and just have opportunities that might have not manifested themselves in a typical teen’s life.
One of my interests is hiking, and in our travels, I have hiked in many beautiful places across our country. We have seen amazing sights, met many friendly people, and experienced the different cultures that make America great.
It isn’t all #vanlife out here tho.
Winter snowstorm in Portland, OR
Living in a small space(7 people, 1 dog in 350 sq ft) can definitely be tough. Especially if you want your own alone time. The upside is that I’ve become closer to my family.
Being on the move also means its harder to get a job or go to a school. I homeschool, which works for me. There are other options for high school and even colleges offer online courses. Of course, I also learn about the places we travel and from the people I meet.
My friends live in different places across the country, and we meet up several times a year. The rest of the time we stay in contact online. This for me is the toughest part, because, as a shy introverted kid, it can get lonely (It be like that sometimes).
On the beach in Oceanside, CA
In conclusion, while I understand that this isn’t for everyone, I would encourage others to try this out. I’ve fully embraced the traveling lifestyle, and now I can’t imagine living any differently. I’m so grateful to my parents for willing to chase this dream.
Cheers, Connor Malson
Writer, Nomad, and Alternative Lifestyle Representative.
Follow me @_rootz__ on Instagram as I document my travels with the Eco Womb Fam!