Empty Nesters ‘Sold Everything’ to ‘Slow Travel’ the Country in a New Location Every 6 Weeks (Exclusive)

In a move that has transformed their lifestyle, Jamie and Keith Ochoa, a couple in their late fifties and sixties, have traded traditional living for a nomadic existence across the United States. Beginning their journey after their youngest daughter departed for college, the duo opted for long-term Airbnb rentals instead of travelling in a recreational vehicle (RV), which they initially considered.

Over the past four years, they have ventured to numerous destinations, exploring states such as Wisconsin, Louisiana, Florida, Iowa, and South Dakota. As full-time travellers, the Ochoas embrace what they term “slow travel,” spending approximately six weeks at each location, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture while also visiting their four adult children and extended family living across seven states.

The transition was not instantaneous; it required a significant lifestyle shift. “We sold everything but the bare minimum necessary for a small, affordable apartment,” Jamie explained. This decision led them from Virginia to Tennessee, where they established their residency for retirement. They initially rented a modest home as a trial run, spending two years travelling for three months at a time before returning to their semi-permanent base for a month.

Once they found their rhythm, the Ochoas downsized further, placing treasured items and seasonal clothing in storage. They make biannual trips to retrieve what they need and manage medical appointments. Family visits account for roughly 40% of their travel schedule, while the remaining balance of their time is spent discovering new cities, events, and attractions, all of which Jamie chronicled through her social media series titled “Living Like a Local.”

During this year alone, their adventures have taken them to a variety of remarkable locations, from the picturesque frozen lakes of Madison, Wisconsin, to the natural wonders of South Dakota’s Black Hills. Jamie’s passion for sharing travel tips has garnered attention, with many inquiring how they might embark on similar journeys.

Financial planning is crucial to sustaining their lifestyle, with the couple budgeting around £5,000 (approximately $5,000) each month for rentals. This budget is derived from their previous monthly home expenses, including mortgage, taxes, utilities, and maintenance costs. In searching for their temporary homes, affordability and location are key determining factors, though they often avoid premium beachfront properties, which can be prohibitively expensive.

However, adapting to a life on the road is not without its challenges. Jamie notes the necessity of adequate planning, often requiring them to research and book accommodations six to eight months in advance. This meticulous preparation has become her responsibility, while Keith works remotely. “It does take a lot of time to research not just where you want to go, but also the neighbourhoods and the cities,” Jamie remarked, acknowledging the effort her husband puts forth in supporting her planning.

For those considering a similar nomadic lifestyle, Jamie offers straightforward advice: “Start small.” She believes that transitioning gradually is vital to adapting fluidly to such a significant change. Recognising that everyone’s needs and desires differ, Jamie encourages individuals to personalise the concept of travel to suit their own circumstances.

Looking ahead, the Ochoas continue to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of America while connecting with family along the way. The lessons learned from their travels and lifestyle changes serve not only as a testament to their adventurous spirit but also as an inspiration for others contemplating a departure from traditional living. As their journey progresses, they remain dedicated to discovering new experiences while forging deeper connections with loved ones, proving that life can indeed be a beautiful adventure at any age.