Discover the Secret: How an Aussie Couple Escaped the 9-5 by Moving Into a Caravan – You Can Too!
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The allure of the open road, the freedom to explore, and the simplicity of life on the move – these are the dreams that many of us harbour, especially as we reach a stage in life where the daily grind seems more taxing and the yearning for adventure grows stronger. For one intrepid Aussie couple from Hobart, this dream became a vivid reality. Lil and Jake, both 29, made a bold decision that transformed their lives: they quit their day jobs, sold most of their belongings, and embarked on the quintessential 'Big Lap' around Australia in their caravan.
Their story is not just one of wanderlust; it's a tale of courage, planning, and the pursuit of happiness that resonates with many of us who are over 60 and contemplating a life less ordinary. Lil, a former school teacher specializing in health, physical, and outdoor education, and Jake, a gasfitter by trade, found themselves at a crossroads three years after meeting. The couple shared a common desire to travel and see the vast beauty of their homeland, a dream often postponed by the 'right time' that never seemed to come.
But in October 2021, as Lil was transitioning between schools, they saw an opportunity. They gave themselves a year to save and prepare for their journey. Lil took on two jobs, and Jake worked overtime. They sold their possessions, including Lil's car and Jake's tractor, and downsized significantly. Jake, who had built his own property in 2019, decided to rent it out, covering the mortgage and freeing them from the shackles of homeownership.
By October 2022, they were ready. With their 4WD and caravan, Lil and Jake set sail on the 'Spirit of Tasmania' to the mainland, embarking on an adventure that would see them clock over 70,000km in just 18 months. The open road became their home, and with it came a profound change in perspective. The pressures of keeping up with the latest trends, the constant dining out, and the accumulation of material possessions faded into the background. In their simpler life, they found joy and contentment.
Their new lifestyle is not without its challenges, of course. The couple has to be mindful of where to stay and how to find essentials like food, fuel, and water. They mostly opt for free camping, only resorting to caravan parks when necessary. Being self-sufficient, they rely on solar power and their vehicle's battery, keeping their possessions to a minimum. Yet, they've found that fewer belongings mean less stress and more happiness.
Living on the road has also meant navigating the intricacies of a relationship in close quarters. Lil and Jake have learned the importance of carving out personal time, whether it's through exercise, calling friends, or engaging in separate hobbies. They've embraced a routine that includes catching sunrises, exploring new locations, and sharing their experiences on their travel page.
For those of us over 60 who might be considering a similar leap into a life on the road, Lil and Jake's story is both inspiring and instructive. They advise setting a firm departure date, saving diligently, and not letting financial concerns deter you. Work is available for those willing to stop and seek it, allowing for continuous travel with the right mindset and preparation.
Their journey is ongoing, with no set end date in sight. Currently in the Northern Territory for the annual Finke Desert Race, they plan to visit Darwin next and then head west to Broome, though they remain open to where the road may lead them.
Lil and Jake's best piece of advice for anyone looking to escape the 9-5 and embrace life on the road is simple: 'Set a date and stick to it.' They remind us that the happiest people they've met often have the simplest setups. It's a sentiment that many of us can appreciate, as we seek to declutter our lives and focus on what truly brings us joy.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, whether you're contemplating a complete lifestyle change or just a temporary escape from the everyday, remember that it's never too late to chase your dreams. With careful planning, a spirit of adventure, and a willingness to embrace simplicity, you too can discover the secret to a fulfilling life on the road. What are your thoughts on this nomadic lifestyle? Have you ever considered making such a change, or have you already taken the plunge? Share your stories and insights in the comments below – we'd love to hear about your adventures!
Their story is not just one of wanderlust; it's a tale of courage, planning, and the pursuit of happiness that resonates with many of us who are over 60 and contemplating a life less ordinary. Lil, a former school teacher specializing in health, physical, and outdoor education, and Jake, a gasfitter by trade, found themselves at a crossroads three years after meeting. The couple shared a common desire to travel and see the vast beauty of their homeland, a dream often postponed by the 'right time' that never seemed to come.
But in October 2021, as Lil was transitioning between schools, they saw an opportunity. They gave themselves a year to save and prepare for their journey. Lil took on two jobs, and Jake worked overtime. They sold their possessions, including Lil's car and Jake's tractor, and downsized significantly. Jake, who had built his own property in 2019, decided to rent it out, covering the mortgage and freeing them from the shackles of homeownership.
Lil and Jake are back in the van life as they embarked on a journey to Oodnadatta track. Image Credit: Instagram/Lil and Jake
By October 2022, they were ready. With their 4WD and caravan, Lil and Jake set sail on the 'Spirit of Tasmania' to the mainland, embarking on an adventure that would see them clock over 70,000km in just 18 months. The open road became their home, and with it came a profound change in perspective. The pressures of keeping up with the latest trends, the constant dining out, and the accumulation of material possessions faded into the background. In their simpler life, they found joy and contentment.
Their new lifestyle is not without its challenges, of course. The couple has to be mindful of where to stay and how to find essentials like food, fuel, and water. They mostly opt for free camping, only resorting to caravan parks when necessary. Being self-sufficient, they rely on solar power and their vehicle's battery, keeping their possessions to a minimum. Yet, they've found that fewer belongings mean less stress and more happiness.
Living on the road has also meant navigating the intricacies of a relationship in close quarters. Lil and Jake have learned the importance of carving out personal time, whether it's through exercise, calling friends, or engaging in separate hobbies. They've embraced a routine that includes catching sunrises, exploring new locations, and sharing their experiences on their travel page.
For those of us over 60 who might be considering a similar leap into a life on the road, Lil and Jake's story is both inspiring and instructive. They advise setting a firm departure date, saving diligently, and not letting financial concerns deter you. Work is available for those willing to stop and seek it, allowing for continuous travel with the right mindset and preparation.
Their journey is ongoing, with no set end date in sight. Currently in the Northern Territory for the annual Finke Desert Race, they plan to visit Darwin next and then head west to Broome, though they remain open to where the road may lead them.
Lil and Jake's best piece of advice for anyone looking to escape the 9-5 and embrace life on the road is simple: 'Set a date and stick to it.' They remind us that the happiest people they've met often have the simplest setups. It's a sentiment that many of us can appreciate, as we seek to declutter our lives and focus on what truly brings us joy.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, whether you're contemplating a complete lifestyle change or just a temporary escape from the everyday, remember that it's never too late to chase your dreams. With careful planning, a spirit of adventure, and a willingness to embrace simplicity, you too can discover the secret to a fulfilling life on the road. What are your thoughts on this nomadic lifestyle? Have you ever considered making such a change, or have you already taken the plunge? Share your stories and insights in the comments below – we'd love to hear about your adventures!
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