Selling everything to become nomads: The experience of Prêts pour la route

Seven years ago, Alex and Vale from Prêts pour la route sold everything to adopt a full-time nomadic lifestyle. 

Today, they reflect on this significant decision. We invite you to watch the French video they made about it.

The Trigger

In 2013, Alex's father passed away at the age of 53. It was a real shock that made them realize the importance of fully enjoying life. 

Shortly after, they acquired a caravan. Their first escapades took place just a few hours from their home, and over time, they grew tired of it. But it was the best they could do with their schedules. 

Then, in 2016, Alex and Valérie decided to rent out their house to take their first long RV trip to Western Canada. The rental income covered the mortgage and house expenses. However, this situation generated stress, especially for Alex, who struggled to accept strangers living in their space, with their furniture and personal belongings. 

A year later, they returned home, happy to find the comfort of their home again. But gradually, the daily routine became boring, and the desire to leave resurfaced.

The Big Leap    

In 2018, they made a radical decision: sell everything to become full-time nomads, with Alaska as their first major goal. 

Alex describes a great feeling of lightness as they gradually got rid of their belongings. However, they kept some precious items and memories, stored in a trailer parked at Valérie's mother's house. 

They also made sure to set aside the money from the sale of their house... because they suspected that one day, they would want to become homeowners again.

Half-Sedentary and Half-Nomadic

After several years on the road traveling to many countries, Prêts pour la route felt the need to settle down last year. 

They bought a small apartment in Quebec that allows them to store some personal belongings and have a little nest just for them close to family and friends, especially to spend the Quebec winter. 

Finally, here are some recommendations from Alex and Valérie for those who aspire to adopt a nomadic lifestyle:

• Before selling everything, try it out for a few months to see if this lifestyle really suits you.
• When selling your belongings, focus on valuable items. Give small items to your loved ones. Be careful: garage sales can be disappointing as buyers often look for bargains.
• Plan a good financial cushion to be able to return to a sedentary life safely. Do not jeopardize your future.
• Do not leave overloaded: it is better to take little and complete as you go. The weight in the RV has a significant impact on the stability and driving of the vehicle.

Prêts pour la route has new projects for the summer. To discover them and follow their adventures, subscribe to their YouTube channel.