After a breakup, I put my belongings in storage and traveled full-time for 3 years. It was the best chapter of my life.
Business Insider
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
After a breakup and an unexpected layoff, Samantha Caffrey decided to pack her belongings into storage and embark on a three-year journey of traveling full-time. This unconventional path taught her the power of independence, adaptability, and the ability to thrive alone in new environments. By exploring cities like Mexico City, Paris, Lisbon, and Melbourne, she discovered her resourcefulness, learned to navigate solo travel, and formed meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds. These experiences not only boosted her confidence but also reshaped her perspective on life, enabling her to live more fully in the moment.
Initially, Caffrey planned a brief trip to Tulum before interviewing Miami and Los Angeles as potential long-term homes. However, when her job was eliminated, she seized the opportunity to continue traveling, supported by freelance work. Her time in Mexico City was particularly transformative; she immersed herself in local culture, made friends, explored museums, and honed her Spanish skills. This period revealed her ability to adapt to new surroundings and maintain productivity while exploring the world.
During her travels, Caffrey encountered countless strangers who became temporary companions, sharing stories and creating lasting memories. One memorable encounter in a Paris café with two fellow travelers— an older woman from England and a young woman from Korea—highlighted the unexpected joy of connecting with others across cultures. These experiences underscored how solo travel fosters resilience, open-mindedness, and the ability to build relationships on the go.
Reflecting on her nomadic chapter, Caffrey emphasizes the importance of embracing
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/20/2026