Looking ahead to fulltiming in early 2009, we are still considering those things we would want in a newer Fifth Wheel. Mine have been 5: (current unit has all five) 1. Two recliners in front of large window 2. Fireplace 3. Free standing table and chairs 4. Computer desk 5. Overhead fan I know the above are "comfort" items. So, what else do we need to consider? To those who are fulltime and have a Fiver, what are your absolute requirements?

We have those five things plus the following "must haves":
Power Surge Protector
Microwave/Convection Oven
Washer/Dryer
Air Ride System
Air Hitch
Thermopane Windows
Separate Coat Closet
32" LCD HD Television
Additional Outlets (Inside - Both Sides of the Bed)(Outside - Left and Right side of the coach and Up Front by the air hitch - this is so we can run the air compressor without using extention cords).

Here are some "must haves" that we don't have but would put in the next rig:
Automatic Leveling System
2000 Watt Inverter with 4 AGM Batteries
Heat Pump
Burber Carpeting

Choose your floorplan carefully.  We picked our floorplan so we could get through the RV when the slides are in which meant that we sacrificed the counter space gained by models with Islands in the kitchen.  So for a dozen nights of convenience we sacrificed 352 days of much needed counter space.

Darrel and Judy - that is a good thought. I was thinking about a rear kitchen but then was concerned about not being able to get to it when the unit is closed. I think we need to keep our current Cedar Creek while fulltiming for a while until we better know our lifestyle. Judy and Bob - the weather radio is a good idea. Will certainly get one.

Big tanks........really, really big tanks.........unless of course you prefer to stay in campgrounds most often. Othewise......really big tanks! Oh, and lots of battery power too!

Most important features depend on how and where you will use it.  For us it is big tanks, at least 4 deep cycle batteries, solar panels, small generator, inverter, basement storage big enough for large awkward stuff you will want with you like a ladder, grill, kayak etc.  All of the suggestions above fit some needs you just have to figure out what you will do.  The reality is that it is a learning curve and you will like some of your decisions and not others because it is dependent on your choices and experiences.

Don't give up.  Do keep thinking about it.  Accept advice but make your own decisions.  The process is an experience but the results are well worth your efforts.

You will love your new fifth wheel in the end.
Larry and Jacki 

S T U F F is great to have unless it cost you MPG. Look for comfort first and S T U F F later. You will find that after you live in your RV for some time your needs will change....your comfort will not. Lots of living room and Kitchen area is a must...not so much for S T U F F but for comfort. Make sure you can make a sandwich on your counter top without setting the mustard bottle on the stove top. When watching TV you don't want the DW standing in front of it while she is setting the table. You need a desk...or take up all the room on the kitchen table. Believe me you need a desk to set at while figuring out where your next tank of diesel will come from. This is also where you will keep most of the S T U F F you really need. S T U F F first or C O M F O R T????

We have a desk but usually sit in our recliners with our laptops. We use the desk when DH is using the desktop PC, other than that it's cluttered with cameras and such. So, maybe a desk isn't needed???

A desk is a necessity for me. I like to be organized and feel I've accomplished something when all paperwork is in order. I keep spreadsheets of expected expenses and income two months out and update continually. I only wish our unit had file drawers. Next one sure will.