Let’s Be Real: When You Start to Miss Your Own Space and Your Kids Are Growing Up

Living in a camper offers a unique sense of freedom and adventure. It’s a lifestyle filled with breathtaking views, spontaneous road trips, and a close-knit family experience. However, as the seasons change, so do our needs and feelings. Many Seasoned Drifters and vanlifers reach a point where they start to miss the comfort of their own space — a physical place to call their own, a sanctuary that’s just theirs.

The reality hits when your kids are growing up, gaining independence, and reaching those exciting milestones like getting their driver’s licenses. The high school experience, with all its friendships, dances, and memories, becomes a priority. As a parent, you can’t help but feel a little nostalgic and even caught between the joy of shared adventures and the longing for a cozy, personal space.

So, what do you do when these feelings arise? How can you embrace this new chapter without losing the spirit of your nomadic lifestyle? Here are some tips from seasoned drifters on finding balance:

1. Create a Personal Sanctuary Inside Your Camper

Even in a small space, you can carve out a cozy corner just for you. Whether it’s a favorite chair, a collection of cherished books, or special herbs and teas, make it your retreat. Small touches like soft lighting or personal decor can turn your camper into a comforting haven.

2. Establish Routines and Rituals

Having daily routines can ground you. Morning coffee on a scenic overlook, evening herbal tea while watching the sunset — these rituals help maintain a sense of stability and personal connection to your space, no matter where you are.

3. Plan for Periods of Stability

While the nomadic life is about flexibility, it’s okay to schedule longer stays in one place. Find a community, a small town, or a favorite campground where your family can settle for a few weeks or months. It gives everyone a breather and a taste of stability.

4. Embrace the Changes

Your kids’ milestones are also part of your journey. Celebrate their independence and let that inspire you to adapt. Perhaps it’s time for you to invest in a little more comfort — a portable home office, a cozy blanket, or even a small garden patch outside your camper.

5. Connect with Like-Minded Community

Join online groups like Seasoned Drifters or local vanlife communities. Sharing experiences and advice can remind you that you’re not alone in your feelings. Plus, meeting fellow adventurers can inspire new ways to make your nomadic lifestyle more fulfilling.

6. Honor Your Feelings

It’s okay to miss the comforts of a traditional home. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment. Sometimes, a heartfelt conversation, a walk in nature, or a quiet moment with a herbal tea can help you reconnect with yourself and your journey.

From Seasoned Drifters, we know that life on the road is an evolving adventure. It’s a blend of excitement, reflection, and adaptability. Remember, your journey isn’t just about the miles traveled but also about how you grow along the way — as an individual, a parent, and a fellow drifter.

If you’re feeling the pull of missing your own space, take it as a sign of how much you value stability and comfort. Use that love to craft a lifestyle that honors your needs while continuing to explore the freedom of the open road.

And don’t forget, whether you’re parked in a new town or chasing sunsets across the horizon, a good cup of herbal tea and a cozy hoodie from Seasoned Drifters are perfect companions for every chapter of your story.