I'm 45 years old and realized a few years ago THIS is the lifestyle I want. Maintaining a house, a car, and a consumer lifestyle doesn't interest me at all (despite how it's considered the American Dream). Seeing you live this way in retirement encourages me to continue on a similar path. Cheers to your next adventure!
Thanks so much and we wish you well on your journey to minimalism. We are cheering for you. It is such a relief to not have stuff. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
@@RetirementTravelers just subscribed to your channel… I’d like to know how much you spend per day. I assume this varies widely depending on which part of the world you find yourselves in. Staying B&B or AirBnBS can still be very expensive. Thanks!
You both are an inspiration! I have worked with seniors for 30 years in home health. I’ve seen over and over how much people accumulate over a lifetime. We are programmed as Americans to consume. No one tells us when and how to start getting rid of stuff. Thanks for posting these videos!
TRUST ME....these types of videos will NEVER fully illustrate the downsides...having nice “stuff” is not such a bad thing, getting rid of everything and trying to live freely is a very recent trend that’s fuelled my vloggers.
Good for you!! I am 77 and, like you, I got rid of EVERYTHING (I now have a backpack and a large suitcase) and began slow-traveling the world about a year ago. It is the best thing I have ever done. It is hard to describe the freedom that comes from divesting myself of a lifetime's worth of "stuff'. I have numerous friends who claim to want to follow in my footsteps but all their things (houses, cars, furniture, clothes, etc.), rather than bringing them happiness have ended up imprisoning them. Enjoy your hard-won freedom and, God willing, perhaps we will run into each other, somewhere along "the trail".
Thanks and that is awesome. You are very inspirational. Stay in touch and would love to cross paths someday. John and Bev ua-cam.com/video/jULRHDPC56w/v-deo.html
Hi John, in 2017 I sold or gave away most of my things and moved to Mexico after spending 2 months in the area I was interested in living. About a year ago I was ready to move on and wanted to travel. One of the things I wanted to do was travel light and transition to a raw fruit and veggie diet to eliminate that need for a kitchen, concern for the cultural food I may not like or chose to eat and to save money by not needing a real kitchen or needing to eat at restaurants. About the same time I heard about retiring to Panama as a new counties for me to get my next permanent visa. And the senior retirement discounts was a big draw for me. 25% off airline ticket to anywhere and very good healthcare and affordable health insurance. I lived without health insurance in MX, and medical care in very affordable if you have some saving for a emergency. After a week long tour of the whole country and much research I am making to move this summer. I learned about a co-living hotel in Panama City, which will make it easier to travel from because I down sized to a backpack and a lockable carryon that I can check if I want too. Now I won’t need to pay rent for my home base while traveling. So happy young nomadic travelers have inspired hotels to make these options to accommodate them. I too plan to slow travel as I travel to events that interest me. Where have you been so far? And where are you from?
I am not yet 60 years old… but I have decided to Retire after watching your video last Year as a minimalist and traveller. During the pandemic I was slowly cleaning up my stuff and started giving away..slowly becoming minimalist Then I found myself, watching more and more people who are minimalist and travellers. Slowly, I started checking on my Financial stabilities and currently starting to do the paperwork and have transferred lots of important documents on my various pen drives, online and others. Due to Financial issues, I have decided and have done courses for free-lances job… starting from my country and slowly moving to other countries too… learning online jobs .. and doing a lot of things online. Getting the Insurance in order and other matters too. I am thinking of buying a small van end of the year for a start and Travel around my country first My previous job took me around the world from Air, sea and land for almost 30 years.. Reality check, I am a Traveller.. I am no good being in a place, seeing the same people, eating the same food at one time.. So ..my next plan is to keep healthy in health wise, Financial wise, mentally and emotionally, spiritually and enjoy travelling the world again. You guys are such an inspiration.. Thank You.. .. Ps: Letting go of stuff is a good thing.. you don’t feel burden to maintain them nor to simply dust them.. Enjoy your Journey,, ❤
Dear John and J&B, it is just amazing to see your stories, but as retirees, how do you come up to dealt with health care and its cost? Medicare won’t cover overseas travel in general. One particular circumstance is where do you stay in case of occasional sickness.
My husband and I downsized almost two years ago. We went from a large home with acreage in the Pacific North West to a tiny condo in Hawaii. No more stuff. No yard work or maintenance. We traveled before we retired so now we are settled in living a minimal lifestyle and love it. No regrets. Unburdening ourselves of everything we owned was the best thing we could have done.
I worked in a thrift store in the US and there were many times when the older remaining parent passed away and the grown children wanted to sell the house to split the money and unload all the contents to the thrift store even their parents treasured momentos and pictures it made me decide to be a minimalist
We have just retired and downsized dramatically. We have rented out the rooms in our home except for our master bedroom so we can return to our home for a few months to visit our grandchildren and then off we go again. We are on a super tight budget so we are house and pet sitting. We left Canada 2 months ago and have 4 more months to go before heading home. Less is more !! All we have are carry ons. So many things you have said in your channel we are experiencing now as well. Thank you for spreading the good news about slow travel. We adore our new life style.
I wish all my clients could watch this video! I’m a realtor and one would think I would be happy when my clients want to “upsize” into enormous homes so they can have bigger closets for their hundreds of shoes, bags; bigger kitchens even though they don’t cook much lol. I see how they are burdened by their stuff, their debt, etc. Wonderful video and you two project so well together! Congratulations!
Thanks for the kind words. It took us many years to learn these lessons, but glad we finally did. PS You are free to share this video with all your clients. 🤣😉 Many blessings, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
What a great video! It IS a very hard process, and my husband and I have been through it and we do NOT miss our stuff. I wish I had done it sooner. Stuff owns us. And you know, that is why God gave us memories.
I’m a travel nurse so I get to choose furnished places while I’m on a contract and get to use other people’s stuff :) Back home I rent a furnished room. Most of what I own fits in my car and I still think that’s too much. Wow, a backpack each, that’s next level!
Hi Bev and John, I met you on a very long stopover in Santiago in February. We were on our way to the Antarctic. Been following you ever since. Love your videos. Cheers
@@carolhawley3097 That’s awesome! It was such a pleasure meeting you. Hope you had a great trip to Antarctic. Glad you are enjoying our channel. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
We went through this identical process in 2020. It took a total of seven months to do it all and was very emotional. But seeing how much money we'd spent on so much stuff was horrifying and explained why we'd never been able to extensively travel. But now we've spent time in both Europe and Mexico. We've also ferried around the Greek Islands, cruised back across the Atlantic, cruised through the Panama Canal, and the only regret is that we'd talked about it for 10 years before doing it.
It is amazingly hard work! Although we downsized from a large two story home to a 700 sq foot place at a campground on the beach, we went through many of the same things. We got rid of 85% of what we owned and we don’t miss anything! And it’s what we gained. A beach life without the normal beach life price. 11 huge storage boxes of photos became 4 sweater sized boxes for ourselves and our kids (it took 14 hours). Now our kids and grandkids come to the beach and we travel the world with the money we would have been spending on the large house. Freedom!
Absolutely you must both be on the same page or it will not work. So many times we have talked to other people about our upcoming plans to sell everything and travel, and what we find is that people with more than enough resource to do so, can't agree on it. One will say they want to sell it all and head to Thailand and not work for the next 10 years before retirement at 65, and the other spouse will say they can't give up their home, can't imagine going away and leaving people. Everyone has their own way of life, no judgement. There are tradeoffs to all choices. We are opting for the one that enables us to stop working early - and see what happens. You can always return and work if you need be, but you can't replace the time when you are healthy and willing to do these things.
I came upon this video today, and I think it was meant for me. I'm 64, renting an apartment, and very motivated to clear out my stuff. I'm not down to a backpack, but I'm working toward lightening the pile of stuff my daughters will face when I'm gone. I think you two are wonderful and inspiring! I'm so glad I found your video, website, and I'm just about to follow you on Instagram. Thanks for kicking me in the pants a little, making me think about my options.
So glad you found our channel. Thanks for the kind words and hope our video has inspired you to move forward with less stuff. Best of luck and stay in touch. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
It has been so liberating to get rid of our stuff. Thanks for commenting and hope you can follow along on our journey. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Gosh, I hope this video goes viral! Too many people need to downsize and STOP buying stuff!! This is a truly motivational story that gives hope to the most cluttered person. Thanks so much!
WE DO TOO. Share it with your friends 🤣 So glad you found it helpful and we hope more people embrace this style of living. We love it. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Exactly. The accumulation of stuff over the years and constant re-accumulation just was silly. When you start to see life in other countries, you realize - this is just not the way in many places (due to economics). You exist in a modest way with essentials and appreciate so much more of the small things in life.
I just turned 33 in May I have two young boys, what you said towards the end about regret really hit me. We spend so much time every single day cleaning, maintaining, house work, house projects, it's frustrating and I really feel like my home is a prison at times I can't handle the mess, the endless projects and most of all I feel like a terrible mother that no matter how hard I work day in and day out to finish all the "things" I still don't spend enough time with my children. Sometimes I want to throw all my things away and then I think well I can't do that I already spent so much money on these "things". It's really a never ending cycle. I am so happy for you guys, you are truly living the dream. I will keep trying to minize and live life with less stuff so when I'm older and my kids are gone, I don't have regrets that I spent all my time effort on stuff and not on memories and adventures ❤
We are only sharing our own experiences and know that a very big percentage of our time, energy and money was maintaining the "stuff" in our lives. It sneaks up on you over the years. We feel so free now. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
We did it too! At ages 56 and 58 we sold everything in 2017 and set off to travel the world. Thought we’d be finished in 4-6 year, but nope. We’re still at it with no intention of stopping so long as we are physically able. Glad to know others are doing the same. We still have a small storage unit in Portland and a micro storage at Kings Cross, London because the two 45 liter backpacks couldn’t accommodate our wardrobe with seasonal changes. Also, we do enjoy an occasional treat when we pull out a few of our comforts like a feather pillow, good knives, toaster and coffee maker when we have longer stays.
You guys are awesome. Great to hear. Please stay in touch and we would love to meet up sometime and compare travel/minimalism stories with you. Safe travels and many blessings, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
As we get older we see stuff as an expence. Its costs money to store, and that means working to pay for storage. I was never good at working, so heck with being a consumer 😅. But I'll rent my house to cover travel expenses. And when I get home, it's really nice to have indoor plumbing and a kitchen. 😊 It's like being in the lap of luxury.
This makes me rethink the benefits of owning a home. I like gardening and thought I could grow my own food but I realize if I go to a developing country I can buy fresher food for much cheaper than in the USA. Also the expense of taxes in Los Angeles County, risk of squatters, crime, homelessness, and noise pollution really makes me seriously consider selling and traveling. You all are such a good inspiration.
Thanks for sharing. We were kind of shocked when we ran the numbers and looked at how much we were spending to live in a gated golf community. It was the best thing we ever did to live and think differently in retirement. Happy journeys, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
We did what you did. We're doing what you're doing. 50 US States; 78 countries. It's nice to know there are fellow travelers out there. Nice videos. Thanks!
Well done guys! We are all trapped in a materialistic world we are choking to death. Happy travels and thank you for inspiring all pack rats out there and that includes me!
Thanks so much. Yes. We were there for many years. 😔 Materialism and debt have messed up many retirements. Good luck in your efforts. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
100%. It is easy to get stuck in that life and hard to recognize it. But once you come up with a plan of how to get away from it, it's quite liberating.
One thing I love about your videos (off topic) is the fact that you don’t talk over or interrupt each other. I can’t believe the number of videos I’ve watched where the man talks over and interrupts the woman. It’s my worst pet peeve, I will stop watching them if that happens! You two are articulate and easy to watch. I love your content!!!
I had the good fortune of having all my stuff eliminated by a billing error when it was in storage. The bill did not get forwarded to a new address so it was confiscated and sold. A blessing inside of a tragedy and I have been grateful ever since. Thanks for sharing your journey I hope more people awaken to the prison of consumerism and let’s put an end to it together
A guy I was dating is seriously trapped. He owns and lives in a house that he won’t allow anyone to visit because it is almost hazardous, filled with stuff everywhere and hard to walk thru. He also inherited a house from his parents that he has to spend time upkeeping and mowing the lawn for because it is empty and can’t be rented out due to needing renovations he doesn’t want to pay for. I suggested selling one of the houses and spending that money to properly renovate and live in the other. I even offered to help him get rid of the stuff in his house, most of which were things left by his deceased parents. For some reason, he can’t or won’t. Then he also promised his elderly sister he would take care of her and her husband when they get old. These are some of the reasons I couldn’t get serious with him. I didn’t want to be trapped living like that.
Great going guys! We did very similar, sold our dream house on acreage in the country, sold our BMWs and fancy pickup truck, sold all the nice things we had spent 15 years accumulating. We moved into our old 1999 motor home, bought a $2200 1998 Subaru Forester to tow behind it and we learned to mountain bike all across the Western US at age 60 and 61. We bought a hectare of very low priced land with friends in Baja, split it into 4 parcels and built a beautiful but minimalist off grid homestead where we winter in the RV for 6 months every year. We love this Sonoran Desert land with a million dollar view above the Sea of Cortez and there is no maintenance, no taxes, no bills other than propane and water deliveries. This is a popular watersports area for Canadians and Americans, like a fitness oriented alternative retirement community. I learned to kiteboard here at age 64, got 52 days in last year and 45 days this year at age 68. We made fitness our number one hobby and are in the most muscular and lean body shape we have ever been since our twenties. My wife learned to swim this past year and now snorkels with dolphins and Mobula rays. The only things we care to buy are organic food and high end mountain bikes and kite boarding gear, we buy top line because we have zero expenses. We accumulate a sizable surplus in our bank account just on our SSA checks while we're in Mexico every winter. Since our dog passed away last year we are permanently retiring the motor home onto our homestead and embarking on world travel for the summer/fall seasons going forward starting with Portugal and the Camino De Santiago next month. Traveling without the comfort of our RV is a little out of our comfort zone but that's where your advice will be invaluable. So far we have never been happier with our lives and our only regret is as you say not doing it 10 years sooner.
LOVE YOUR STORY! Thanks so much for sharing. Sorry about the loss of your dog and enjoy your Europe travels. Stay in touch and perhaps our paths will cross one day. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Very inspiring. I feel suffocated by my too big house and the endless maintenance. Nomad life is not for me (I have cats and do enjoy the comforts of a home) but I so want to find something that is smaller and less maintenance.
Yes, this is my challenge too. I want a garden and my cats but I want a much smaller, lighter simpler life. Our world is not so set up for this! I got rid of car and TV and that helped hugely, so I know personally the awesome benefits of doing so. ❤
The emotion of getting rid of stuff is tough but necessary. We are going through that process now and plan to start travelling in early 2024 in our early 50's. We have had to get donate, sell, and throw out a LOT of stuff and more to come. We will retain some items that are not easy to replace, but at the end of the day you can't spend a few thousand dollars a year storing $5000 worth of stuff you can replace if need be. Once you get to some lower cost countries, you realize how far $1000 will go. Not like at home where that is used in no time and keeps you required to be working in a cycle at a job with not enough time off each year. We're done with that!
A few years ago I started changing my consumer habits and wanted to have more experiences and less things. I also started getting rid of stuff and continue to do so. I'm now 46 and have been able to travel more and its been amazing. For now, I travel twice a year for two weeks at a time because of my husband's job. Sometimes, I'll go with a friend or family member in between those trips. I didn't want to wait till my husband and I retired to start traveling. I also want to include our kids. My daughter is an adult and still wants to come along unless she has other plans. My son is younger, we had him later in life, and I love the joy and excitement he has with new experiences. This is definitely an inspiring video.
We just retired early, majorly downsized to a small cabin, plan to travel. One of the hardest things for me to sell was our big dining room table. 20+ years of meals, games, and memories. Thanks for sharing these insights! Loved the idea of digitizing and leaving less clutter for our adult kids.
Thanks and good luck with your journey. We had a tough time with a few items, but we are having such an adventure traveling around the world now, that we don't even think of those things. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
We just watched your video of the tree damage at your idyllic cabin. Looks like you guys are embarking on a new life that still has lots of work tied to it. But I foresee tons of memories being made at the picnic table!
Just found your channel. Great!.. this is my dream. I have been minimalistic for years. And since divorce have packed away 90 boxes of my ex husbands stuff and then decluttered my and then my kids stuff.. that was 2019.. I will do another this year. There are things i would never get rid of from my world travels and memory stuff. But i have memory boxes for my kids and I have 1 tiny one and lots of photo albums, plus my travel stuff which is my decor to enjoy daily. But i would keep these important things to me because you NEED it when you are old. Showing, touching, smelling old stuff helped my 102 yr old grandmother keep her "long-term" memory active right up until the end when her memory started to slip at 101yrs old.
Thanks. So glad you found our channel and thanks for sharing your perspective. Amazing story with your grandmother. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
I love how courageous you are to admit that you could have had a much simpler life, with rewarding travel experiences with your children; recognizing that the life you actually had as maybe not the best choice. "Regret" is not necessarily a bad thing, and now you're setting things straight for yourselves! You'll be able to share so many new and wonderful things with your children today! Really nice story, folks, and happy travels to you!
Thanks so much. It was a leap of faith, but we really don't miss our stuff at all. We are going to have a retirement of travel and adventure and hopefully provide a legacy for our kids and grandkids. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Hello from Argentina!! Thank you for sharing your experience!! I'm 43 years old after living for 22 years in USA I decided to sell everything and moved back to Argentina. I have 10 % of all the things I used to have and I couldn't be happier. Now I have time to enjoy life, friends and family. And more money in the bank that allows me to have zero financial worries...I'm glad I changed my life around in my 40s. I am the happiest I ever been. I improved my physical and mental health. It was a hard decision but I'm glad I had the courage to make it. Best of luck and God bless
Hello! Definitely inspirational gives me purpose and hope! I am 53 combat veteran disabled (PTSD , fybromygia and TBI). I’ve lived off and on traveling out of my SUV after my last hospital stay I went and adopted my puppy he was 9 weeks old and is now 10 mos old. We got approved at Soldier’s Best Friend’s for service dog training. I’m so thankful! It’s 9 mos long and my apt lease is 12 mos. After he’s certified we are hitting the road. I think we will travel the States first and then I want to see the world. I’ve been all over Europe so would like to explore! I’m single with my pup and my adult sons and all of my family do not support this journey at all so makes my life lonely. Because I’ve been traveling for 9 years now since my husband died they think I’m unstable and mentally crazy! What’s funny is traveling makes me happy, my pain level is less noticeable and I feel free. They say have a home base but I can’t afford a home base and travel. I’m thankful I came across your videos because I’m perfectly sane I just don’t want to live miserably like my family does. There is a whole world to explore! 😊
We’re right there with you. We sold our home, got rid of almost everything , and moved to South Florida to a small condo. Hurricane Ian hit two months later and finished getting rid of the rest. We aren’t buying much back. Enjoy this video and am your newest subscriber.
Great job and sorry about your hurricane losses. Enjoy sunny Florida (we used to live there) and hope you can follow along on our adventure around the world. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
@@RetirementTravelers Thank You! BTW, where did you live in FL? Also, where do you live between trips? We had never considered selling everything, rather wanted a smaller, inexpensive (that’s relative for certain) home base, and then travel from there. Even prior to selling our home, compared to most folks, we’ve always leaned towards the minimalist lifestyle. We found your page by accident and I’m excited to watch more of your videos.
You guys are rock stars!! It takes a huge commitment to downsize an entire household to a couple of backpacks. I am insanely jealous. Most people will just throw up their hands and let their children deal with it. Your children are fortunate to have parents like you.
Good on you guys! We downsized a lot 4 years ago before starting an around the world trip. We've recently returned home and realised that even the stuff that we did keep is still way too much. It's definitely hard to part with things initially, when you have the thought of "maybe I'll need this one day", but you quickly realise that things do really weigh you down. Have fun in Vietnam! We highly recommend Hoi An and Ninh Binh.
Thanks and great job on your downsizing. You guys are living a great life at a young age. We had a great time in Vietnam. We were in Hoi An for the Lantern Festival. Very cool. Safe travels, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
@@RetirementTravelers thanks! you've inspired us to keep going with downsizing more. Being in Hoi An for the Lantern festival would have been so amazing. you've definitely gained a lot from your downsizing!
You are very smart. My mom’s friend left lots of things to their children. They turned around and sold the whole thing for four thousands turned out it’s full of collectibles worth over thirty thousands.
You two are inspirational, I truly enjoyed this video. Thank you for taking the time to share this with us, we appreciate you. Blessings to you and your family. I live in a tiny little place now that kids are gone, investing the money I would spend on stuff. Thought living a simple life would make me sad, but no - I am FREE, I am FREE.
Thanks so much. Your story makes us smile 😊. Our RV trip around the country helped us realize we could live much smaller. Thanks again and many blessings to you. John and Bev
This is motivating!! I have been thinking this way for a very long and had to go through a year-long process clearing out my parents house after they passed away. It was a recurring reminder of what little value objects have. Congratulations!
I think you two are brilliant! One of the most loving things we can do for our children is to not burden them with what we think are treasures but will just be trouble for them. As a recent widow, I'm in the process of downsizing so my son and his wife won't face having to wade through my stuff. Happy travels!
My mom told me she saw her neighbor’s son throw out tons of old photos and belongings of his dad who had just passed away. All of it. There was simply no room to store them. At the end, our stuff ends up in the landfill.
New to your channel!! In 2020 I began downsizing because of my husband’s advancing age and signs of him having dementia. Wish we had downsized and traveled more when he first retired but having pets and aging parents that needed help, it wasn’t possible. I’ll live vicariously thru watching your vids!
I'm so happy I made productive decisions about my finances that changed my life forever,hoping to retire next year... Investment should always be on any creative man's heart for success in life.
I agree with you and believe that the secret to financial stability is having the right investment ideas to enable you earn more money, I don't know who agrees with me but either way I recommend real estate or crypto and stocks.
Yeah!! It would be more beneficial and yield more profit if you actually trade on cryptocurrency, I've been trading since the dip, I've made so much profit trading.
trading is easier with proper guidance, especially from a professional, Newbies who are not aware of how crypto truly works and wish to make profits from it, I would advise to invest with a professional like Fergus waylen, It helps secure and minimize the possibilities of losses.
I really enjoyed this, thankyou. I think travel is one of the most empowering ways to use our limited time on this planet. I too regret being a big consumer during my working life, but like you I counter this by enjoying giving it all away. Most stuff can be split between friends, neighbours and charity services including a home resettlement service for people getting back on their feet. Thankyou again.🇦🇺🏳️🌈 ps. I spent most of my life obsessed with cars, but now I can’t wait to not need one. I didn’t realise how stressful (and expensive) driving is until recently. 🕺
You timed it right, having 5 children to pass special items to and having the conversation about what they would want for after you die - that's a luxury for both parents and kids.
Although I understand and agree with a lot of what you say, for me having a small quaint low maintenance clean comfortable apartment, which I can always come back to from my travels, where I do keep not-too-many cherished things and not-too-many clothes, is something that keeps me grounded and happy. I always have "my place" in the world even when I live abroad for long stretches in rented places. This also makes me feel secure towards old age. What will you do when you will no longer be agile? Its going to happen. Get a small place - thats my suggestion.
Completely understand your thoughts. We will for sure get a much smaller place someday. We likely will never have a single home base because our 5 kids and 2 moms are in 7 different places in the US. A single location just doesn't make sense for us, as we like to rotate and see everyone. We are only 60 now and hope to have a number of years of travel ahead before we need to settle down. Thanks for your comments. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
I sold my house and all my stuff a few years ago. Then i started to travel eastern europe, the carribean and the mediteranean. Easily the best move I ever made.
Great video. I am retired and keep on downsizing as much as I can. One thing that I did 2 years ago was that I scanned all of the photographs that I had, made several copies, and then distributed the "hard copy" to the family members that it was relevant to. Now, I can plug in the USB drive into a monitor and watch a slideshow if I want. Maybe your viewers would want to try this trick.
Our downsizing has been going on for 10 years. We moved to a 55 and over in the pine lands of NJ. (our friends thought we were nuts)Much cheaper than Florida 10 years ago . House needed updating and for every update project we did ,we downsized our stuff more. it took 8 years but we also traveled in those 8 years. Fortunately our expenses for the house are very low. And the HOA takes care of the outside. The more we got rid of the things the more we adopted minimalism lifestyle. Now we only have what we need and what gives us pleasure. The Next 10 years if health stays good we will travel even more. It is nice to have a small uncluttered humble house to come home to after a month or so travel. Also want to mention we have no debt or mortgage and we love the challenge of living frugally when we are home. Will look forward to seeing your adventures.
Thanks and sounds like you have been taking great strides in the minimalism lifestyle. Great job. We love being debt free and able to travel. One of the reasons we don't have a "home base" is that our 5 kids and our moms are all in different places. We spend our US visits splitting time between all of them, so having a home just doesn't work for us now. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Love the presentation and the concept! I think minimizing your possessions is great, most of stuff we own, we can do without. But I like having a home base, and do my travels when I can. I am sure my kids will not mind being burdened with a 1 million dollar home when we depart from this earth 😂
I truly LOVED this video! My husband and I are going to start our slow travel world adventures in 2 months. We are getting rid of all of our stuff, too. It’s been difficult to find words to describe to people when they ask us about how we can do that. Your video perfectly describes the process, feelings and reasons; and I agree wholeheartedly with your statements! Thank you for putting such a beautiful description of the process we are in right now. I’m going to share this with some of our friends so it will hopefully help them to understand.
Thanks so much for the kind words and for sharing our video. Good luck with your travels and let us know if we can be of any assistance. Keep us posted on your journey and follow along on our website as well. Thanks again and safe travels. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
I commend on your courage to downsize to two backpacks. I am curious on your health care strategy. Since you are traveling outside of the USA, where no medical expenses will be covered by Medicare, do you still pay your Medicare premiums ? What do you do if your health is deteriorating to the point you can’t travel anymore? Do you come back to US or settle down in a foreign country?
@@jackmui2195 thank you! We bought international travel insurance that covers medical and travel incidents. It was also affordable, which was a big plus. My husband only took the free Medicare because we knew we would be leaving the country. Part of our goal in traveling the world will be trying to decide what country we want to retire to. I’m not really sure what we will do if our health deteriorates. I guess we’ll cross that bridge when we get there. Until then we will continue to do our best to stay healthy. The carry on suitcases didn’t work out too well, unfortunately. We got the smallest ones so they would fit on any plane. However, in trying to pack them, I couldn’t fit everything in them. 🤦🏼♀️. So, we bought a backpack with wheels and handle, that we will check in on flights. Maybe with some practice and experience we’ll be able to pair it down some more. 🤷🏼♀️ Thank you for asking. 😁
Considering that I am only three years away from retirement, it becomes challenging for me to solely concentrate on the long-term perspective. Despite having invested in reputable companies and having a significant amount of funds allocated, my profits have been stagnant. This situation raises the question: Does the current recession and unstable market offer any calculated risk opportunities for generating profits?
I genuinely mean it when I express my stress and concern regarding the market crash and high inflation, particularly in relation to my retirement. I have been experiencing losses for quite some time, and while some may argue that crises can present opportunities, I am feeling overwhelmed.
My situation is very difficult, as I have lost a lot of money and I still hope to get it back. I clearly need some help. Who is the expert that advises you on your investments?
Great video. Sold our house 4 months ago & got rid of everything. Scanned all my photos & put them on drives. Amazing how not owning a car or home eases the budget. Doing slower travel than you, John & Bev, house sitting right now but heading to Europe in May.
In 2021, circumstances forced me to put 95% of my belongings in storage. I moved around for 1.5 years with just my luggage of clothes. It's challenging when you need clothes as seasons changed. But it was very liberating! All my shoes and bags and furniture... that I "invested" in and took care of... I didn't see them for 1.5 years and yet life went on!!!
We've had no cars, home, or many clothes for the past 2 years and haven't missed a thing. It is really is liberating to be free from some of the ways our stuff holds us back. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
I'm in my early 40s, and the minimalist bug has bitten me too! Your life situation is very different to mine, but we share the same principles in motivation. I particularly enjoyed your itemisation of practical considerations. Great vid!
We encourage you to give it a try. It has completely changed our lives for the better. The experiences and memories from the past 3 years have brought us more joy than any of our stuff ever did. Good luck in your journey. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
@@ElizabethOwen-f5v We go back for 2 long visits per year. We stay with our kids or other family when in the states. They also meet us abroad some. It will be easier when the grandkids get a little older. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
Walking away from all our stuff was the hardest and best decision we have ever made. Years and years of buying and maintaining all those things just wore us down. Now we live as traveling RVers that swing back to our home state every 6 months to spend a few weeks with our grown sons and their families. They won't have the burden of disposing of all those possessions in the future. We have no debt and our expenses reasonable. We hope to live this way as long as it is fun and makes sense. At that point a very small and simple home will be plenty. Go for it!
😭😭 omg you guys have opened my eyes in so many ways! Why having Thais expensive house that we don’t even enjoy because all we do is work. My kids deserve this life! Enjoy and continue to inspire us ❤
Thanks and so glad you enjoyed it. We had a beautiful place in Florida with lots of “stuff” and guess what….we don’t even miss it. Good luck with your journey and hope you can follow along on our journey around the world. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
Thanks. We have heard from many people that it is a real burden, especially when you are grieving a loss at the same time. It feels good to have all that behind us. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Most inspirational video that I have seen for a long time. my husband and I started traveling in our early 50's every year at Christmas time we would spend our christmas bonus on a 3/4 week holiday somewhere warm. We have traveled the World and loved every minute of it. Now we are in retirement and take longer trips I see that downsizing is not just about your wardrobe but it's about your style of life. Our last trip to Thailand and Laos was with minimal luggage (2 pairs of short and 4 t.shirts) it's suprising how less complicated life becomes when you have less. We have a dog at home and until he is alive we can't be away too long but when he goes we are seriously think of making longer trips.
I am totally understand what you are saying!!! I agree that we need take time to organize and simplify… Plan to enjoy rather than taking care stuff 🌼🌸🌺
You're such a genuinely sweet and charming couple! 🙏🏼🥰 I have slimmed down my life, 65yo, working + full pension, which I anyway call work capital because I am free to work on what I want to do without worrying about income. I don't feel retired. I don't hoard anything in my basements, cupboards and storage rooms, besides clothes and shoes which I love, I always buy something new to wear. I also continually give away a lot, like shoes and clothes. I'm going through papers and other things that can be thrown away, twice a year at least, so nothing accumulates in piles. I use things as currency as well, if I need help with something, as I'm not a "handywoman". I have things to pay with that's highly appreciated by someone else. All my furnitures are light weight, carefully chosen as I love interior design but keep it as minimalistic and easy as possible and I like changing styles every now and then. Outdoors and long walks in nature is my first priority so my wardrobe is adapted for all weather conditions, at the same time I like being well dressed, very picky about what I'm wearing. I live in a place that matches my criterias I set up, I was looking for it a long time and then one day I found it. I stay away from drama, consciously focus on what's good, inspiring and uplifting. I do some volunteering for the less fortunate and keeping a positive approach, not the toxic positivism but staying in good vibes.
Thanks and that's great. Best of luck with your adventure. Hope you can follow along with us for even more motivation and inspiration! 🌍 John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Great video! especially, especially the comments starting at 10:50. As I get older (49 now), realizing one of the big lessons is to spend money on experiences and people, but not on things or my own ego. Only wish that I had figured that out a wee bit earlier! Keep up the great travels!
Thanks and glad you enjoyed it. You are still young and have time to refocus. Good luck with your journey. PS We made many mistakes with stuff in our 50’s. Never too late. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
I'm 33 and i get rid of my stuffs about 3000 items I had 2.5years ago and now only living with 2 backpacks.... It was the best decision I ever made. No more burdens , no more anxiety. I feel light and more present.... But as u said it was a big challenge to do it especially while u have a big family. 😂 Goodluck and stay healthy. Thankyou for sharing. Enjoy life!! ❤
This is fantastic. I retired almost four years ago (I am almost 65) and I am thinking about selling it all and hitting the road. Lately I have been feeling like a caged animal. I have done quite a lot of traveling but I think it’s time to take it to the next level. Next summer I promised my sixteen year old grandson a trip to Southeast Asia and a week in Japan on the way home🇨🇦 After that I will sort it out and go. I will live vicariously through you guys in the meantime. Enjoy Vietnam. It’s fabulous. Just subscribed. Peace and love☮️💕
Thanks for following along on our journey around the world. So nice that you can take your grandson to Southeast Asia. Enjoy! John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
You may want to rent out your place because a realtor in Cabo San Lucas once told me that people will sell their houses in Mexico and move back to the states to be near their children when they get old and sick.
Excellent advice. Paid off our house in 11 years. Now we’re traveling as much as possible. Our two kids are finally old enough where they can come along.
This is so inspiring. The part where you mentioned you could've shared more moments with the children instead of consuming more really touched me. I am emotionally scared to do it, although I have contemplated this lifestyle for a while now.
You CAN do it. It was the best decision we ever made and feel so free without our stuff holding us back. Let us know if we can help in any way. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
You guys are so awesome! I lost my husband, years ago…he was all about adventure and travel. I have downsized, and gotten rid of most of the “stuff”, very freeing. I hope to travel, although single, I am going for it! Please keep posting, so I can follow along with your journeys 😀
So sorry to hear about your loss. Glad to hear you have downsized. Keep following along and hopefully we can provide ideas for you for some amazing travel adventures. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Very interesting. You are right about burdening kids with stuff. After becoming empty nesters, we started cleaning out and spent several years on that, sorting, selling, and donating. My daughter still has some stuff at the house, but other than that we're down to the basics and the things we love. I am a minimalist at heart anyway. The kids will inherit money and valuables, which they can use.
This is why the book “Swedish Death Cleaning” became a bestseller. So many people in mid life have written about the stress and burdens of emptying out their parents’ whole lives. We need to do this differently. Not to mention the benefits to the planet.
I think it's a great lifestyle. I'm 61 and have been downsizing for the past 2 years. I live alone in a small house, but it's amazing how much stuff I had! I'm planning to do the same as you both, but am wondering what you do about having a permanent address for official matters. Also, what you would do if one of you became ill and could no longer travel or when you become very elderly and can't do it anymore? These thoughts hold me back. I don't have children, so need a solution I can manage on my own. Any ideas?
Thanks and great job on the downsizing. We have a physical address through a local UPS store. This works fine for tax and other legal purposes. Regarding the question on getting sick and can't travel anymore, we addressed this question in our follow-up video to A Life without Stuff. Here is the link. ua-cam.com/video/cMkwBUwKEZY/v-deo.html John and Bev
I'm single with no plan of getting married. No children at 47 years old. Continue working on your health and mobility. Those are 2 things we can control. It's our true wealth. When the time comes and I have to deal with health issues, I trust that I will be guided to make the right choice.
@@xo7454 I’m 56 and you’re absolutely right. Your health is your wealth. I spend most of time keeping my health going, eating the right foods, and exercising. Things I didn’t have to think about when I was younger. Your health is an investment for the future. I have never owned a home. I own a car and my cloths and kitchenware. No furniture except for a plastic foldable table and foldable chair. I have a WFH job so I can go anywhere. Hope to do that!
That's great. We want to inspire and motivate people to live their best retirement life. Best of luck on your journey. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
Great video! I couldn't agree more. I also sold or gave away everything and it was so liberating. Like you I don't miss any of it. It's like a weight off your shoulders. And I don't have the desire to buy stuff as I travel around the world either. I am surprised by how easy it has been to just not buy anything. I enjoy driving but when traveling the world I definitely enjoy not driving, instead walking or relying on public transportation or car hire (Uber. Grab, etc.). Look forward to your Vietnam video. I started my Southeast Asia trip in Vietnam back in January. Happy travels!
Thanks so much and hope you are enjoying Asia. We actually switched videos and have already released Vietnam. Enjoy and safe travels. John and Bev ua-cam.com/video/th_eS7Xub-s/v-deo.html
In 2021 I downsized and sold most everything I had. I don’t miss the things, insurance, taxes, upkeep of property. I enjoy travel as well. Be safe and enjoy each day.
Thanks. One of our goals is to challenge people to think differently. We want everyone to have the best possible retirement years. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
What a fantastic video! Thanks for posting. This is a great guide to use to declutter: Swedish Death Cleaning checklist Declutter small items first. Implement a storage system for sentimental mementos and photos. Determine what items are worth keeping, and what can be let go. Remove unwanted possessions (donate, toss, or sell them) Avoid acquiring additional clutter once you've started the cleaning process. Nov 16, 2022
Very nice video. You both seem very happy and happily married... good for you both! So nice to see. I put my house up for sale last year and got rid of all my stuff...everything! Then the house didn't sell, but I love an empty house with no stuff to worry about. I bought a blow-up mattress to sleep on and that is all I need, plus a computer. I dont' miss the other stuff at all.
Thanks so much. Good for you. We hope your house sells and, based on your name, we hope you kept your golf clubs.😉 Many blessings, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com
My husband and I are getting rid of 40 years of stuff and everything you say is absolutely true. One week after donating boxes a things I can't remember what was in the boxes and I definitely don't need it. The process takes a LONG time like you said it is work. Our goal is to move to Europe and travel about. Thank you for the honesty and inspiration.
I don’t think I could go to the extreme you did but there are levels of downsizing for everyone. I definitely agree that stuff is more of a burden then not. We will be retiring and downsizing soon. I was thinking of the emotional aspect…that will be the hardest. I have no regrets because we have traveled and with our children as well.
We agree that this life is not for everyone, but there are benefits to living with less and it is working well for us. Good luck with your retirement and downsizing journey. John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
We did a similar downsizing at 55 to an apartment from a house. Then to a boat but we still have stuff on the boat 😂. We digitized our pictures with the Photomyne app then backed them up. Much easier to look at the photos now than in a box. Your video is 100% true. I hope many younger people will watch. Video is being shared with our kid as we speak.
Great job. We've thought about a boat someday, but still too much of the world to see. Safe travels and happy sailing, John and Bev retirementtravelers.com/
SO PROUD OF U2 & U R SUCH EXAMPLE TO YOUR KIDS & INSPIRATION TO US ALL AS I'VE BEEN ON THE ROAD FOR OVER 8 YRS AFTER RECYCLING LITERARY ALL MY BELONGINGS EXCEPT A CARRY ON + BACK PACK, LOVING LIFE!
Do you have more STUFF than you need? We hope this video inspires you to take action.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
Do you have health insurance from any company? How old are you two?
Bravo!
@@heythave BCBS retiree plan
John and Bev
@@lauragasque4292 Thanks 😊
@@RetirementTravelers Sorry, what does BCBS stands for?
I'm 45 years old and realized a few years ago THIS is the lifestyle I want. Maintaining a house, a car, and a consumer lifestyle doesn't interest me at all (despite how it's considered the American Dream). Seeing you live this way in retirement encourages me to continue on a similar path. Cheers to your next adventure!
Thanks so much and we wish you well on your journey to minimalism. We are cheering for you. It is such a relief to not have stuff.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
do it! but plan! You wont be sorry!!!
@@RetirementTravelers just subscribed to your channel…
I’d like to know how much you spend per day. I assume this varies widely depending on which part of the world you find yourselves in. Staying B&B or AirBnBS can still be very expensive. Thanks!
You both are an inspiration! I have worked with seniors for 30 years in home health. I’ve seen over and over how much people accumulate over a lifetime. We are programmed as Americans to consume. No one tells us when and how to start getting rid of stuff. Thanks for posting these videos!
TRUST ME....these types of videos will NEVER fully illustrate the downsides...having nice “stuff” is not such a bad thing, getting rid of everything and trying to live freely is a very recent trend that’s fuelled my vloggers.
Good for you!! I am 77 and, like you, I got rid of EVERYTHING (I now have a backpack and a large suitcase) and began slow-traveling the world about a year ago. It is the best thing I have ever done. It is hard to describe the freedom that comes from divesting myself of a lifetime's worth of "stuff'. I have numerous friends who claim to want to follow in my footsteps but all their things (houses, cars, furniture, clothes, etc.), rather than bringing them happiness have ended up imprisoning them. Enjoy your hard-won freedom and, God willing, perhaps we will run into each other, somewhere along "the trail".
Thanks and that is awesome. You are very inspirational. Stay in touch and would love to cross paths someday.
John and Bev
ua-cam.com/video/jULRHDPC56w/v-deo.html
Hi John, in 2017 I sold or gave away most of my things and moved to Mexico after spending 2 months in the area I was interested in living. About a year ago I was ready to move on and wanted to travel. One of the things I wanted to do was travel light and transition to a raw fruit and veggie diet to eliminate that need for a kitchen, concern for the cultural food I may not like or chose to eat and to save money by not needing a real kitchen or needing to eat at restaurants. About the same time I heard about retiring to Panama as a new counties for me to get my next permanent visa. And the senior retirement discounts was a big draw for me. 25% off airline ticket to anywhere and very good healthcare and affordable health insurance. I lived without health insurance in MX, and medical care in very affordable if you have some saving for a emergency. After a week long tour of the whole country and much research I am making to move this summer. I learned about a co-living hotel in Panama City, which will make it easier to travel from because I down sized to a backpack and a lockable carryon that I can check if I want too. Now I won’t need to pay rent for my home base while traveling. So happy young nomadic travelers have inspired hotels to make these options to accommodate them. I too plan to slow travel as I travel to events that interest me. Where have you been so far? And where are you from?
I am not yet 60 years old… but I have decided to Retire after watching your video last Year as a minimalist and traveller.
During the pandemic I was slowly cleaning up my stuff and started giving away..slowly becoming minimalist
Then I found myself, watching more and more people who are minimalist and travellers.
Slowly, I started checking on my Financial stabilities and currently starting to do the paperwork and have transferred lots of important documents on my various pen drives, online and others.
Due to Financial issues, I have decided and have done courses for free-lances job… starting from my country and slowly moving to other countries too… learning online jobs .. and doing a lot of things online.
Getting the Insurance in order and other matters too.
I am thinking of buying a small van end of the year for a start and Travel around my country first
My previous job took me around the world from Air, sea and land for almost 30 years..
Reality check, I am a Traveller.. I am no good being in a place, seeing the same people, eating the same food at one time..
So ..my next plan is to keep healthy in health wise, Financial wise, mentally and emotionally, spiritually and enjoy travelling the world again.
You guys are such an inspiration.. Thank You.. ..
Ps: Letting go of stuff is a good thing.. you don’t feel burden to maintain them nor to simply dust them..
Enjoy your Journey,, ❤
Do you have a home of your own to go back to when you have had enough of traveling..??
Dear John and J&B, it is just amazing to see your stories, but as retirees, how do you come up to dealt with health care and its cost? Medicare won’t cover overseas travel in general. One particular circumstance is where do you stay in case of occasional sickness.
My husband and I downsized almost two years ago. We went from a large home with acreage in the Pacific North West to a tiny condo in Hawaii. No more stuff. No yard work or maintenance. We traveled before we retired so now we are settled in living a minimal lifestyle and love it. No regrets. Unburdening ourselves of everything we owned was the best thing we could have done.
That’s awesome. We love your story! Thanks for sharing.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I worked in a thrift store in the US and there were many times when the older remaining parent passed away and the grown children wanted to sell the house to split the money and unload all the contents to the thrift store even their parents treasured momentos and pictures it made me decide to be a minimalist
We have loved changing our life to living this style and our kids will definitely thank us.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We have just retired and downsized dramatically. We have rented out the rooms in our home except for our master bedroom so we can return to our home for a few months to visit our grandchildren and then off we go again. We are on a super tight budget so we are house and pet sitting. We left Canada 2 months ago and have 4 more months to go before heading home. Less is more !! All we have are carry ons. So many things you have said in your channel we are experiencing now as well. Thank you for spreading the good news about slow travel. We adore our new life style.
Thanks. We are so glad you are enjoying our channel. Less is More. Safe travels and many blessings.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I wish all my clients could watch this video! I’m a realtor and one would think I would be happy when my clients want to “upsize” into enormous homes so they can have bigger closets for their hundreds of shoes, bags; bigger kitchens even though they don’t cook much lol. I see how they are burdened by their stuff, their debt, etc. Wonderful video and you two project so well together! Congratulations!
Thanks for the kind words. It took us many years to learn these lessons, but glad we finally did. PS You are free to share this video with all your clients. 🤣😉
Many blessings,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
@@RetirementTravelers yes I have shared this video! Thank you!
What a great video! It IS a very hard process, and my husband and I have been through it and we do NOT miss our stuff. I wish I had done it sooner. Stuff owns us. And you know, that is why God gave us memories.
Thank you so much for sharing. We wish we would have done it sooner as well.
Happy journeys and many memories,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I’m a travel nurse so I get to choose furnished places while I’m on a contract and get to use other people’s stuff :) Back home I rent a furnished room. Most of what I own fits in my car and I still think that’s too much. Wow, a backpack each, that’s next level!
Thanks. It has certainly changed our lives. Good luck with your downsizing journey and safe travels.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You two are great presenters. This video was so organized, and you didn't talk over each other. Well done. Hope you continue to enjoy your travels!
Thanks for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed the video. Hope you can follow along on our journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
Hi Bev and John, I met you on a very long stopover in Santiago in February. We were on our way to the Antarctic. Been following you ever since. Love your videos. Cheers
@@carolhawley3097 That’s awesome! It was such a pleasure meeting you. Hope you had a great trip to Antarctic. Glad you are enjoying our channel.
Safe travels,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
We went through this identical process in 2020. It took a total of seven months to do it all and was very emotional. But seeing how much money we'd spent on so much stuff was horrifying and explained why we'd never been able to extensively travel. But now we've spent time in both Europe and Mexico. We've also ferried around the Greek Islands, cruised back across the Atlantic, cruised through the Panama Canal, and the only regret is that we'd talked about it for 10 years before doing it.
Great job and so glad you are enjoying your travels. Hope you can follow along on our journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
Thanks for mentioning how long it took you, I know it will be different for everyone but it helps to have that as a reference, have fun!
MIEUX VAUT TARD QUE JAMAIS
Way to go! We are in month 3 of the downsizing and hope to have our house sold in time to start travelling in 2024!
It is amazingly hard work! Although we downsized from a large two story home to a 700 sq foot place at a campground on the beach, we went through many of the same things. We got rid of 85% of what we owned and we don’t miss anything! And it’s what we gained. A beach life without the normal beach life price. 11 huge storage boxes of photos became 4 sweater sized boxes for ourselves and our kids (it took 14 hours). Now our kids and grandkids come to the beach and we travel the world with the money we would have been spending on the large house. Freedom!
Congrats. That’s awesome. Love hearing stories like this.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I am 47 years old, female and realize I have lived all my life as a minimalist.
It’s just satisfying not having so many items .
That’s awesome. Congrats. It is so much simpler and cheaper.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I would love to be able to live this life style….the key to making this succeed is having the right partner and being like minded with each other.
We feel so fortunate to be on the same page for this type of lifestyle.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Absolutely you must both be on the same page or it will not work.
So many times we have talked to other people about our upcoming plans to sell everything and travel, and what we find is that people with more than enough resource to do so, can't agree on it. One will say they want to sell it all and head to Thailand and not work for the next 10 years before retirement at 65, and the other spouse will say they can't give up their home, can't imagine going away and leaving people. Everyone has their own way of life, no judgement. There are tradeoffs to all choices. We are opting for the one that enables us to stop working early - and see what happens. You can always return and work if you need be, but you can't replace the time when you are healthy and willing to do these things.
I came upon this video today, and I think it was meant for me. I'm 64, renting an apartment, and very motivated to clear out my stuff. I'm not down to a backpack, but I'm working toward lightening the pile of stuff my daughters will face when I'm gone. I think you two are wonderful and inspiring! I'm so glad I found your video, website, and I'm just about to follow you on Instagram. Thanks for kicking me in the pants a little, making me think about my options.
So glad you found our channel. Thanks for the kind words and hope our video has inspired you to move forward with less stuff. Best of luck and stay in touch.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Such a beautiful couple.
Although friends have described my lifestyle as spartan, I would still love to be down to a backpack. 😄
Next is finding a $150/month apartment in Kampot, Cambodia?
@@sukikom2259 Thank You!
I agree totally! Stuff has no eternal value. The health benefits and less emotional stress are tremendous with this lifestyle.
It has been so liberating to get rid of our stuff. Thanks for commenting and hope you can follow along on our journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Gosh, I hope this video goes viral!
Too many people need to downsize and STOP buying stuff!!
This is a truly motivational story that gives hope to the most cluttered person. Thanks so much!
WE DO TOO. Share it with your friends 🤣 So glad you found it helpful and we hope more people embrace this style of living. We love it.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Exactly. The accumulation of stuff over the years and constant re-accumulation just was silly. When you start to see life in other countries, you realize - this is just not the way in many places (due to economics). You exist in a modest way with essentials and appreciate so much more of the small things in life.
I just turned 33 in May I have two young boys, what you said towards the end about regret really hit me. We spend so much time every single day cleaning, maintaining, house work, house projects, it's frustrating and I really feel like my home is a prison at times I can't handle the mess, the endless projects and most of all I feel like a terrible mother that no matter how hard I work day in and day out to finish all the "things" I still don't spend enough time with my children. Sometimes I want to throw all my things away and then I think well I can't do that I already spent so much money on these "things". It's really a never ending cycle. I am so happy for you guys, you are truly living the dream. I will keep trying to minize and live life with less stuff so when I'm older and my kids are gone, I don't have regrets that I spent all my time effort on stuff and not on memories and adventures ❤
We are only sharing our own experiences and know that a very big percentage of our time, energy and money was maintaining the "stuff" in our lives. It sneaks up on you over the years. We feel so free now.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We did it too! At ages 56 and 58 we sold everything in 2017 and set off to travel the world. Thought we’d be finished in 4-6 year, but nope. We’re still at it with no intention of stopping so long as we are physically able. Glad to know others are doing the same. We still have a small storage unit in Portland and a micro storage at Kings Cross, London because the two 45 liter backpacks couldn’t accommodate our wardrobe with seasonal changes. Also, we do enjoy an occasional treat when we pull out a few of our comforts like a feather pillow, good knives, toaster and coffee maker when we have longer stays.
You guys are awesome. Great to hear. Please stay in touch and we would love to meet up sometime and compare travel/minimalism stories with you.
Safe travels and many blessings,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
As we get older we see stuff as an expence. Its costs money to store, and that means working to pay for storage. I was never good at working, so heck with being a consumer 😅.
But I'll rent my house to cover travel expenses. And when I get home, it's really nice to have indoor plumbing and a kitchen. 😊 It's like being in the lap of luxury.
Sounds like a plan. Great that you can rent your house to cover some expenses.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
This makes me rethink the benefits of owning a home. I like gardening and thought I could grow my own food but I realize if I go to a developing country I can buy fresher food for much cheaper than in the USA. Also the expense of taxes in Los Angeles County, risk of squatters, crime, homelessness, and noise pollution really makes me seriously consider selling and traveling. You all are such a good inspiration.
Thanks for sharing. We were kind of shocked when we ran the numbers and looked at how much we were spending to live in a gated golf community. It was the best thing we ever did to live and think differently in retirement.
Happy journeys,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We did what you did. We're doing what you're doing. 50 US States; 78 countries. It's nice to know there are fellow travelers out there. Nice videos. Thanks!
That’s awesome. Perhaps our paths will cross someday. Safe travels.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
Well done guys! We are all trapped in a materialistic world we are choking to death. Happy travels and thank you for inspiring all pack rats out there and that includes me!
Thanks so much. Yes. We were there for many years. 😔 Materialism and debt have messed up many retirements. Good luck in your efforts.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
100%. It is easy to get stuck in that life and hard to recognize it. But once you come up with a plan of how to get away from it, it's quite liberating.
One thing I love about your videos (off topic) is the fact that you don’t talk over or interrupt each other. I can’t believe the number of videos I’ve watched where the man talks over and interrupts the woman. It’s my worst pet peeve, I will stop watching them if that happens! You two are articulate and easy to watch. I love your content!!!
Thanks for the kind words and glad you are enjoying our channel.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I had the good fortune of having all my stuff eliminated by a billing error when it was in storage. The bill did not get forwarded to a new address so it was confiscated and sold. A blessing inside of a tragedy and I have been grateful ever since. Thanks for sharing your journey I hope more people awaken to the prison of consumerism and let’s put an end to it together
Thanks and yes we do hope to encourage others to downsize and live with less. It has been so rewarding for us.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
😁 I have imagined a strong gust of wind come to blow all my stuff away, just to solve the problem of having so many bits and ends. Haha
That's one way to do it. Put everything in storage and then"forget to pay the bill" 😂😂
@@jd-pw8yv A tornado would do that for you!
A guy I was dating is seriously trapped. He owns and lives in a house that he won’t allow anyone to visit because it is almost hazardous, filled with stuff everywhere and hard to walk thru. He also inherited a house from his parents that he has to spend time upkeeping and mowing the lawn for because it is empty and can’t be rented out due to needing renovations he doesn’t want to pay for. I suggested selling one of the houses and spending that money to properly renovate and live in the other. I even offered to help him get rid of the stuff in his house, most of which were things left by his deceased parents. For some reason, he can’t or won’t. Then he also promised his elderly sister he would take care of her and her husband when they get old. These are some of the reasons I couldn’t get serious with him. I didn’t want to be trapped living like that.
Great going guys! We did very similar, sold our dream house on acreage in the country, sold our BMWs and fancy pickup truck, sold all the nice things we had spent 15 years accumulating. We moved into our old 1999 motor home, bought a $2200 1998 Subaru Forester to tow behind it and we learned to mountain bike all across the Western US at age 60 and 61. We bought a hectare of very low priced land with friends in Baja, split it into 4 parcels and built a beautiful but minimalist off grid homestead where we winter in the RV for 6 months every year. We love this Sonoran Desert land with a million dollar view above the Sea of Cortez and there is no maintenance, no taxes, no bills other than propane and water deliveries. This is a popular watersports area for Canadians and Americans, like a fitness oriented alternative retirement community. I learned to kiteboard here at age 64, got 52 days in last year and 45 days this year at age 68. We made fitness our number one hobby and are in the most muscular and lean body shape we have ever been since our twenties. My wife learned to swim this past year and now snorkels with dolphins and Mobula rays. The only things we care to buy are organic food and high end mountain bikes and kite boarding gear, we buy top line because we have zero expenses. We accumulate a sizable surplus in our bank account just on our SSA checks while we're in Mexico every winter.
Since our dog passed away last year we are permanently retiring the motor home onto our homestead and embarking on world travel for the summer/fall seasons going forward starting with Portugal and the Camino De Santiago next month. Traveling without the comfort of our RV is a little out of our comfort zone but that's where your advice will be invaluable. So far we have never been happier with our lives and our only regret is as you say not doing it 10 years sooner.
LOVE YOUR STORY! Thanks so much for sharing. Sorry about the loss of your dog and enjoy your Europe travels. Stay in touch and perhaps our paths will cross one day.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Very inspiring. I feel suffocated by my too big house and the endless maintenance. Nomad life is not for me (I have cats and do enjoy the comforts of a home) but I so want to find something that is smaller and less maintenance.
Thanks so much and good luck in your search for something smaller.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
Start decluttering and close off the rooms you don’t use.
Yes, this is my challenge too. I want a garden and my cats but I want a much smaller, lighter simpler life. Our world is not so set up for this! I got rid of car and TV and that helped hugely, so I know personally the awesome benefits of doing so. ❤
@@sct4040 Oh I don’t have a lot of stuff (been a minimalist for a long time with stuff), just too much space and property to maintain.
It's hard to meet people when traveling especially as an introvert. Good thing you guys have eachother
We are very thankful to have each other. Hope you have safe travels and meet some interesting people.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
My wife and I started downsizing......the emotional thing is the hardest part. Thank you for sharing your videos. God Bless you both!
Thanks. It is very emotional, but very rewarding. We love being free.
Many blessings to you.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
The emotion of getting rid of stuff is tough but necessary. We are going through that process now and plan to start travelling in early 2024 in our early 50's. We have had to get donate, sell, and throw out a LOT of stuff and more to come. We will retain some items that are not easy to replace, but at the end of the day you can't spend a few thousand dollars a year storing $5000 worth of stuff you can replace if need be. Once you get to some lower cost countries, you realize how far $1000 will go. Not like at home where that is used in no time and keeps you required to be working in a cycle at a job with not enough time off each year. We're done with that!
A few years ago I started changing my consumer habits and wanted to have more experiences and less things. I also started getting rid of stuff and continue to do so.
I'm now 46 and have been able to travel more and its been amazing.
For now, I travel twice a year for two weeks at a time because of my husband's job.
Sometimes, I'll go with a friend or family member in between those trips.
I didn't want to wait till my husband and I retired to start traveling. I also want to include our kids.
My daughter is an adult and still wants to come along unless she has other plans. My son is younger, we had him later in life, and I love the joy and excitement he has with new experiences.
This is definitely an inspiring video.
Thanks. Glad you enjoyed the video.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We just retired early, majorly downsized to a small cabin, plan to travel. One of the hardest things for me to sell was our big dining room table. 20+ years of meals, games, and memories. Thanks for sharing these insights! Loved the idea of digitizing and leaving less clutter for our adult kids.
Thanks and good luck with your journey. We had a tough time with a few items, but we are having such an adventure traveling around the world now, that we don't even think of those things.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We just watched your video of the tree damage at your idyllic cabin. Looks like you guys are embarking on a new life that still has lots of work tied to it. But I foresee tons of memories being made at the picnic table!
@@welltravelledlife Enjoying the outside work that is good for the body ;). Love the memories made at the picnic table- 100% yes!
@@welltravelledlife I just subscribed to your channel- wow!! We are just getting started- your description is inspiring! Can’t wait to watch…
@@simplyretiredearly2023 That was our 2022 intro. We're getting ready to film our 2023 intro as we leave in June for 5 months in Europe.
Just found your channel. Great!.. this is my dream. I have been minimalistic for years. And since divorce have packed away 90 boxes of my ex husbands stuff and then decluttered my and then my kids stuff.. that was 2019.. I will do another this year.
There are things i would never get rid of from my world travels and memory stuff. But i have memory boxes for my kids and I have 1 tiny one and lots of photo albums, plus my travel stuff which is my decor to enjoy daily. But i would keep these important things to me because you NEED it when you are old. Showing, touching, smelling old stuff helped my 102 yr old grandmother keep her "long-term" memory active right up until the end when her memory started to slip at 101yrs old.
Thanks. So glad you found our channel and thanks for sharing your perspective. Amazing story with your grandmother.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I love how courageous you are to admit that you could have had a much simpler life, with rewarding travel experiences with your children; recognizing that the life you actually had as maybe not the best choice. "Regret"
is not necessarily a bad thing, and now you're setting things straight for yourselves! You'll be able to share so many new and wonderful things with your children today! Really nice story, folks, and happy travels to you!
Thanks so much. It was a leap of faith, but we really don't miss our stuff at all. We are going to have a retirement of travel and adventure and hopefully provide a legacy for our kids and grandkids.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Hello from Argentina!! Thank you for sharing your experience!!
I'm 43 years old after living for 22 years in USA I decided to sell everything and moved back to Argentina. I have 10 % of all the things I used to have and I couldn't be happier. Now I have time to enjoy life, friends and family. And more money in the bank that allows me to have zero financial worries...I'm glad I changed my life around in my 40s. I am the happiest I ever been. I improved my physical and mental health.
It was a hard decision but I'm glad I had the courage to make it. Best of luck and God bless
That's awesome. We love your story. Less really is MORE.
Many blessings and enjoy.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Hello! Definitely inspirational gives me purpose and hope! I am 53 combat veteran disabled (PTSD , fybromygia and TBI). I’ve lived off and on traveling out of my SUV after my last hospital stay I went and adopted my puppy he was 9 weeks old and is now 10 mos old. We got approved at Soldier’s Best Friend’s for service dog training. I’m so thankful! It’s 9 mos long and my apt lease is 12 mos. After he’s certified we are hitting the road. I think we will travel the States first and then I want to see the world. I’ve been all over Europe so would like to explore! I’m single with my pup and my adult sons and all of my family do not support this journey at all so makes my life lonely. Because I’ve been traveling for 9 years now since my husband died they think I’m unstable and mentally crazy! What’s funny is traveling makes me happy, my pain level is less noticeable and I feel free. They say have a home base but I can’t afford a home base and travel. I’m thankful I came across your videos because I’m perfectly sane I just don’t want to live miserably like my family does. There is a whole world to explore! 😊
We love our nomadic life. Best of luck and safe travels.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I’m doing the same. I’m shredding and going through clothes, items, etc. it’s a lot of work!
Good luck with the process. It will be worth it.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We’re right there with you. We sold our home, got rid of almost everything , and moved to South Florida to a small condo.
Hurricane Ian hit two months later and finished getting rid of the rest.
We aren’t buying much back.
Enjoy this video and am your newest subscriber.
Great job and sorry about your hurricane losses. Enjoy sunny Florida (we used to live there) and hope you can follow along on our adventure around the world.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
@@RetirementTravelers Thank You!
BTW, where did you live in FL?
Also, where do you live between trips?
We had never considered selling everything, rather wanted a smaller, inexpensive (that’s relative for certain) home base, and then travel from there.
Even prior to selling our home, compared to most folks, we’ve always leaned towards the minimalist lifestyle.
We found your page by accident and I’m excited to watch more of your videos.
@@AlanWJohnson We lived in the Stuart area. We travel between our 5 kids, moms and other family when in US.
You guys are rock stars!! It takes a huge commitment to downsize an entire household to a couple of backpacks. I am insanely jealous. Most people will just throw up their hands and let their children deal with it. Your children are fortunate to have parents like you.
Thanks for your kind words, we are very grateful for the opportunity to live this life and hope to inspire others.
Happy journeys,
John and Bev
Good on you guys! We downsized a lot 4 years ago before starting an around the world trip. We've recently returned home and realised that even the stuff that we did keep is still way too much. It's definitely hard to part with things initially, when you have the thought of "maybe I'll need this one day", but you quickly realise that things do really weigh you down.
Have fun in Vietnam! We highly recommend Hoi An and Ninh Binh.
Thanks and great job on your downsizing. You guys are living a great life at a young age. We had a great time in Vietnam. We were in Hoi An for the Lantern Festival. Very cool.
Safe travels,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
@@RetirementTravelers thanks! you've inspired us to keep going with downsizing more. Being in Hoi An for the Lantern festival would have been so amazing. you've definitely gained a lot from your downsizing!
You are very smart. My mom’s friend left lots of things to their children. They turned around and sold the whole thing for four thousands turned out it’s full of collectibles worth over thirty thousands.
Thanks for sharing your story.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You two are inspirational, I truly enjoyed this video. Thank you for taking the time to share this with us, we appreciate you. Blessings to you and your family. I live in a tiny little place now that kids are gone, investing the money I would spend on stuff. Thought living a simple life would make me sad, but no - I am FREE, I am FREE.
Thanks so much. Your story makes us smile 😊. Our RV trip around the country helped us realize we could live much smaller.
Thanks again and many blessings to you.
John and Bev
It's tough when this is what you love and aspire to, but your husband is a maximalist stay-at-home. You are so lucky you are both on the same page!
This is motivating!! I have been thinking this way for a very long and had to go through a year-long process clearing out my parents house after they passed away. It was a recurring reminder of what little value objects have.
Congratulations!
Thanks so much and glad you found it motivating.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I think you two are brilliant! One of the most loving things we can do for our children is to not burden them with what we think are treasures but will just be trouble for them. As a recent widow, I'm in the process of downsizing so my son and his wife won't face having to wade through my stuff. Happy travels!
Thanks and so sorry to hear about your loss. Downsizing has enhanced our lives in so many ways.
Many blessings,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
My mom told me she saw her neighbor’s son throw out tons of old photos and belongings of his dad who had just passed away. All of it. There was simply no room to store them. At the end, our stuff ends up in the landfill.
New to your channel!! In 2020 I began downsizing because of my husband’s advancing age and signs of him having dementia. Wish we had downsized and traveled more when he first retired but having pets and aging parents that needed help, it wasn’t possible. I’ll live vicariously thru watching your vids!
Thanks for following along and best wishes to you in your retirement.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Admiro a quienes sacrifican sus mejores años para cuidar de sus mayores , le deseo mucha salud y felicidad en su vida , lo merece 💕💕
I'm so happy I made productive decisions about my finances that changed my life forever,hoping to retire next year... Investment should always be on any creative man's heart for success in life.
I agree with you and believe that the secret to financial stability is having the right investment ideas to enable you earn more money, I don't know who agrees with me but either way I recommend real estate or crypto and stocks.
Yeah!! It would be more beneficial and yield more profit if you actually trade on cryptocurrency, I've been trading since the dip, I've made so much profit trading.
trading is easier with proper guidance, especially from a professional, Newbies who are not aware of how crypto truly works and wish to make profits from it, I would advise to invest with a professional like Fergus waylen, It helps secure and minimize the possibilities of losses.
I'm honestly surprised that this name is being mentioned here, I stumbled upon one of his clients testimony last week in CNBC world news
Well, you are saying the fact. I invested $4,000 with fergus Waylen. and earned $12,000 in 7 working days.
I really enjoyed this, thankyou. I think travel is one of the most empowering ways to use our limited time on this planet. I too regret being a big consumer during my working life, but like you I counter this by enjoying giving it all away. Most stuff can be split between friends, neighbours and charity services including a home resettlement service for people getting back on their feet. Thankyou again.🇦🇺🏳️🌈
ps. I spent most of my life obsessed with cars, but now I can’t wait to not need one. I didn’t realise how stressful (and expensive) driving is until recently. 🕺
Thanks for sharing your experiences and downsizing journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You timed it right, having 5 children to pass special items to and having the conversation about what they would want for after you die - that's a luxury for both parents and kids.
Although I understand and agree with a lot of what you say, for me having a small quaint low maintenance clean comfortable apartment, which I can always come back to from my travels, where I do keep not-too-many cherished things and not-too-many clothes, is something that keeps me grounded and happy. I always have "my place" in the world even when I live abroad for long stretches in rented places. This also makes me feel secure towards old age. What will you do when you will no longer be agile? Its going to happen. Get a small place - thats my suggestion.
Completely understand your thoughts. We will for sure get a much smaller place someday. We likely will never have a single home base because our 5 kids and 2 moms are in 7 different places in the US. A single location just doesn't make sense for us, as we like to rotate and see everyone. We are only 60 now and hope to have a number of years of travel ahead before we need to settle down. Thanks for your comments.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I sold my house and all my stuff a few years ago. Then i started to travel eastern europe, the carribean and the mediteranean. Easily the best move I ever made.
That's awesome. We love hearing your story. Thanks for sharing.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Wow, two backpacks! I’m don’t think I could do that
It has worked great for us.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Very enlightened mindset. Thank you for sharing your experience of eliminating stuff from your lives. Both of you are now living my dream life. Enjoy!
Thanks and glad you found it helpful.
Happy journeys,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Great video. I am retired and keep on downsizing as much as I can. One thing that I did 2 years ago was that I scanned all of the photographs that I had, made several copies, and then distributed the "hard copy" to the family members that it was relevant to. Now, I can plug in the USB drive into a monitor and watch a slideshow if I want. Maybe your viewers would want to try this trick.
Thanks so much and appreciate you sharing the tip.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
We just retired and plan to live the way you two are doing.
Congratulations 👏 on such a great decision!
Thanks and congrats on your retirement and travel plans!
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Sounds like u all are having a happy life, enjoy traveling the world and be safe.
Thanks. All the best to you.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Our downsizing has been going on for 10 years. We moved to a 55 and over in the pine lands of NJ. (our friends thought we were nuts)Much cheaper than Florida 10 years ago . House needed updating and for every update project we did ,we downsized our stuff more. it took 8 years but we also traveled in those 8 years. Fortunately our expenses for the house are very low. And the HOA takes care of the outside. The more we got rid of the things the more we adopted minimalism lifestyle. Now we only have what we need and what gives us pleasure. The Next 10 years if health stays good we will travel even more. It is nice to have a small uncluttered humble house to come home to after a month or so travel. Also want to mention we have no debt or mortgage and we love the challenge of living frugally when we are home. Will look forward to seeing your adventures.
Thanks and sounds like you have been taking great strides in the minimalism lifestyle. Great job. We love being debt free and able to travel. One of the reasons we don't have a "home base" is that our 5 kids and our moms are all in different places. We spend our US visits splitting time between all of them, so having a home just doesn't work for us now.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Love the presentation and the concept! I think minimizing your possessions is great, most of stuff we own, we can do without. But I like having a home base, and do my travels when I can. I am sure my kids will not mind being burdened with a 1 million dollar home when we depart from this earth 😂
Thanks and sure they can probably manage that burden. 🤣
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I can feel ur peacefulness and happiness. ❤Thanks and best of continued luck for both of u!
Thanks so much. We are enjoying life.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You two are the perfect couple to explain this lifestyle ❤ y’all are so helpful ! And authentic.
Did this in 2018 and no regrets! Keep having fun!
Thanks and keep having fun as well.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I truly LOVED this video! My husband and I are going to start our slow travel world adventures in 2 months. We are getting rid of all of our stuff, too. It’s been difficult to find words to describe to people when they ask us about how we can do that. Your video perfectly describes the process, feelings and reasons; and I agree wholeheartedly with your statements! Thank you for putting such a beautiful description of the process we are in right now. I’m going to share this with some of our friends so it will hopefully help them to understand.
Thanks so much for the kind words and for sharing our video. Good luck with your travels and let us know if we can be of any assistance. Keep us posted on your journey and follow along on our website as well.
Thanks again and safe travels.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I commend on your courage to downsize to two backpacks. I am curious on your health care strategy. Since you are traveling outside of the USA, where no medical expenses will be covered by Medicare, do you still pay your Medicare premiums ? What do you do if your health is deteriorating to the point you can’t travel anymore? Do you come back to US or settle down in a foreign country?
@@jackmui2195 thank you! We bought international travel insurance that covers medical and travel incidents. It was also affordable, which was a big plus. My husband only took the free Medicare because we knew we would be leaving the country. Part of our goal in traveling the world will be trying to decide what country we want to retire to. I’m not really sure what we will do if our health deteriorates. I guess we’ll cross that bridge when we get there. Until then we will continue to do our best to stay healthy.
The carry on suitcases didn’t work out too well, unfortunately. We got the smallest ones so they would fit on any plane. However, in trying to pack them, I couldn’t fit everything in them. 🤦🏼♀️. So, we bought a backpack with wheels and handle, that we will check in on flights. Maybe with some practice and experience we’ll be able to pair it down some more. 🤷🏼♀️
Thank you for asking. 😁
Considering that I am only three years away from retirement, it becomes challenging for me to solely concentrate on the long-term perspective. Despite having invested in reputable companies and having a significant amount of funds allocated, my profits have been stagnant. This situation raises the question: Does the current recession and unstable market offer any calculated risk opportunities for generating profits?
I genuinely mean it when I express my stress and concern regarding the market crash and high inflation, particularly in relation to my retirement. I have been experiencing losses for quite some time, and while some may argue that crises can present opportunities, I am feeling overwhelmed.
My situation is very difficult, as I have lost a lot of money and I still hope to get it back. I clearly need some help. Who is the expert that advises you on your investments?
Thanks for the name. I found her webpage
I really want to retire early and travel round the world. I would reach out to ROCHELLE DUNGCA SCHREIBER as well. Thank you
This comment and replies are worthless scammers.
Great video. Sold our house 4 months ago & got rid of everything. Scanned all my photos & put them on drives. Amazing how not owning a car or home eases the budget. Doing slower travel than you, John & Bev, house sitting right now but heading to Europe in May.
Thanks, great job and enjoy your travels.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
@@nickadams1519 married
In 2021, circumstances forced me to put 95% of my belongings in storage. I moved around for 1.5 years with just my luggage of clothes. It's challenging when you need clothes as seasons changed. But it was very liberating! All my shoes and bags and furniture... that I "invested" in and took care of... I didn't see them for 1.5 years and yet life went on!!!
We've had no cars, home, or many clothes for the past 2 years and haven't missed a thing. It is really is liberating to be free from some of the ways our stuff holds us back.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I love how you 2 are leaning into each other.
Thanks. We spend 24/7 together, so it is good that we get along. 🤣
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You guys are so strong to do what you guys did and are doing.
Thanks. Our life has been better with less stuff.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
There is so much wisdom in this video, even for people who aren’t aiming to travel around the world. I love your guys’ energy and attitude!
Thanks so much. Glad you found the video helpful.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You are the smartest people I know. Your family will be thankful beyond words.
Thanks for the kind words.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I'm in my early 40s, and the minimalist bug has bitten me too! Your life situation is very different to mine, but we share the same principles in motivation.
I particularly enjoyed your itemisation of practical considerations.
Great vid!
Thanks. This way of thinking has completely changed our life. Good luck on your journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Just watched this from my studio in Montreal….all the incentive I needed to finish getting rid of the rest of my “stuff”!
Thanks and good luck getting rid of your stuff. We are cheering for you.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I never thought I'd want to walk away from everything, but watching your adventures makes me want to rethink my life!
We encourage you to give it a try. It has completely changed our lives for the better. The experiences and memories from the past 3 years have brought us more joy than any of our stuff ever did. Good luck in your journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
@@RetirementTravelers I have so many questions!!! How often do you see your kids and grandkids? Do you stay with them when you are not traveling?
@@ElizabethOwen-f5v We go back for 2 long visits per year. We stay with our kids or other family when in the states. They also meet us abroad some. It will be easier when the grandkids get a little older.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
@@RetirementTravelers ❤ Thank you for sharing your stories with us!
Walking away from all our stuff was the hardest and best decision we have ever made. Years and years of buying and maintaining all those things just wore us down. Now we live as traveling RVers that swing back to our home state every 6 months to spend a few weeks with our grown sons and their families. They won't have the burden of disposing of all those possessions in the future. We have no debt and our expenses reasonable. We hope to live this way as long as it is fun and makes sense. At that point a very small and simple home will be plenty. Go for it!
😭😭 omg you guys have opened my eyes in so many ways! Why having Thais expensive house that we don’t even enjoy because all we do is work. My kids deserve this life! Enjoy and continue to inspire us ❤
Thanks and so glad you enjoyed it. We had a beautiful place in Florida with lots of “stuff” and guess what….we don’t even miss it. Good luck with your journey and hope you can follow along on our journey around the world.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
2:31 Wow! I love that you were looking after your kids in your decision and taking care of your business before your children would have to! 💜💜
Thanks. We have heard from many people that it is a real burden, especially when you are grieving a loss at the same time. It feels good to have all that behind us.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Thorough and realistic information. And the Vietnam comment is so true. Walking across a street in Hanoi is pretty scary.
Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it and glad we survived Vietnam. 🤣
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Most inspirational video that I have seen for a long time. my husband and I started traveling in our early 50's every year at Christmas time we would spend our christmas bonus on a 3/4 week holiday somewhere warm. We have traveled the World and loved every minute of it. Now we are in retirement and take longer trips I see that downsizing is not just about your wardrobe but it's about your style of life. Our last trip to Thailand and Laos was with minimal luggage (2 pairs of short and 4 t.shirts) it's suprising how less complicated life becomes when you have less. We have a dog at home and until he is alive we can't be away too long but when he goes we are seriously think of making longer trips.
Thanks so much. Downsizing and travel has changed our lives.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
Next trip, Cambodia?
Who takes care your dog when you are traveling?
@@beautiful20106 Another family member
I am totally understand what you are saying!!!
I agree that we need take time to
organize and simplify…
Plan to enjoy rather than taking care stuff 🌼🌸🌺
Thanks and hope you enjoy your best life possible.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
You're such a genuinely sweet and charming couple! 🙏🏼🥰 I have slimmed down my life, 65yo, working + full pension, which I anyway call work capital because I am free to work on what I want to do without worrying about income. I don't feel retired. I don't hoard anything in my basements, cupboards and storage rooms, besides clothes and shoes which I love, I always buy something new to wear. I also continually give away a lot, like shoes and clothes. I'm going through papers and other things that can be thrown away, twice a year at least, so nothing accumulates in piles. I use things as currency as well, if I need help with something, as I'm not a "handywoman". I have things to pay with that's highly appreciated by someone else. All my furnitures are light weight, carefully chosen as I love interior design but keep it as minimalistic and easy as possible and I like changing styles every now and then. Outdoors and long walks in nature is my first priority so my wardrobe is adapted for all weather conditions, at the same time I like being well dressed, very picky about what I'm wearing. I live in a place that matches my criterias I set up, I was looking for it a long time and then one day I found it. I stay away from drama, consciously focus on what's good, inspiring and uplifting. I do some volunteering for the less fortunate and keeping a positive approach, not the toxic positivism but staying in good vibes.
Thanks for the kind words and sharing your thoughts on life. Hope you can follow along on our journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
😍Thankyou...I'm approaching 61yrs...and am now considering living more adventure with less stuff! 🍉
Thanks and that's great. Best of luck with your adventure. Hope you can follow along with us for even more motivation and inspiration! 🌍
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Great video! especially, especially the comments starting at 10:50. As I get older (49 now), realizing one of the big lessons is to spend money on experiences and people, but not on things or my own ego. Only wish that I had figured that out a wee bit earlier! Keep up the great travels!
Thanks and glad you enjoyed it. You are still young and have time to refocus. Good luck with your journey.
PS We made many mistakes with stuff in our 50’s. Never too late.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I'm 33 and i get rid of my stuffs about 3000 items I had 2.5years ago and now only living with 2 backpacks.... It was the best decision I ever made. No more burdens , no more anxiety. I feel light and more present.... But as u said it was a big challenge to do it especially while u have a big family. 😂 Goodluck and stay healthy. Thankyou for sharing. Enjoy life!! ❤
Great job and congratulations. Thanks for sharing your story.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
This is fantastic. I retired almost four years ago (I am almost 65) and I am thinking about selling it all and hitting the road. Lately I have been feeling like a caged animal. I have done quite a lot of traveling but I think it’s time to take it to the next level. Next summer I promised my sixteen year old grandson a trip to Southeast Asia and a week in Japan on the way home🇨🇦 After that I will sort it out and go. I will live vicariously through you guys in the meantime. Enjoy Vietnam. It’s fabulous. Just subscribed. Peace and love☮️💕
Thanks for following along on our journey around the world. So nice that you can take your grandson to Southeast Asia. Enjoy!
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Vũng tàu beach in vietnam is a beautiful beach. Do you like it?
You may want to rent out your place because a realtor in Cabo San Lucas once told me that people will sell their houses in Mexico and move back to the states to be near their children when they get old and sick.
Excellent advice. Paid off our house in 11 years. Now we’re traveling as much as possible. Our two kids are finally old enough where they can come along.
Thanks and great job paying off the house. Enjoy your travels.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
This is so inspiring. The part where you mentioned you could've shared more moments with the children instead of consuming more really touched me.
I am emotionally scared to do it, although I have contemplated this lifestyle for a while now.
You CAN do it. It was the best decision we ever made and feel so free without our stuff holding us back. Let us know if we can help in any way.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Wishing you both continued health so that the adventures can keep on rolling. ⛩🗼🏰 #GoGoYears
Thanks so much.
Happy journeys,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
You guys are so awesome! I lost my husband, years ago…he was all about adventure and travel. I have downsized, and gotten rid of most of the “stuff”, very freeing.
I hope to travel, although single, I am going for it!
Please keep posting, so I can follow along with your journeys 😀
So sorry to hear about your loss. Glad to hear you have downsized. Keep following along and hopefully we can provide ideas for you for some amazing travel adventures.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Very interesting. You are right about burdening kids with stuff. After becoming empty nesters, we started cleaning out and spent several years on that, sorting, selling, and donating. My daughter still has some stuff at the house, but other than that we're down to the basics and the things we love. I am a minimalist at heart anyway. The kids will inherit money and valuables, which they can use.
Thanks and great job. Better to do this earlier in life instead of later.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
This is why the book “Swedish Death Cleaning” became a bestseller. So many people in mid life have written about the stress and burdens of emptying out their parents’ whole lives. We need to do this differently. Not to mention the benefits to the planet.
I hope that one day I find a partner so completely onboard with a mutual goal. That must be so wonderful.
We hope so. It is wonderful and thanks for the comment.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
I think it's a great lifestyle. I'm 61 and have been downsizing for the past 2 years. I live alone in a small house, but it's amazing how much stuff I had! I'm planning to do the same as you both, but am wondering what you do about having a permanent address for official matters. Also, what you would do if one of you became ill and could no longer travel or when you become very elderly and can't do it anymore? These thoughts hold me back. I don't have children, so need a solution I can manage on my own. Any ideas?
Thanks and great job on the downsizing. We have a physical address through a local UPS store. This works fine for tax and other legal purposes. Regarding the question on getting sick and can't travel anymore, we addressed this question in our follow-up video to A Life without Stuff. Here is the link.
ua-cam.com/video/cMkwBUwKEZY/v-deo.html
John and Bev
I'm single with no plan of getting married. No children at 47 years old. Continue working on your health and mobility. Those are 2 things we can control. It's our true wealth.
When the time comes and I have to deal with health issues, I trust that I will be guided to make the right choice.
@@xo7454 I’m 56 and you’re absolutely right. Your health is your wealth. I spend most of time keeping my health going, eating the right foods, and exercising. Things I didn’t have to think about when I was younger. Your health is an investment for the future. I have never owned a home. I own a car and my cloths and kitchenware. No furniture except for a plastic foldable table and foldable chair. I have a WFH job so I can go anywhere. Hope to do that!
Thank you for sharing! This is my dream life. I am 52 and this motivates me to save more and start getting rid of stuff now.
That's great. We want to inspire and motivate people to live their best retirement life. Best of luck on your journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Great video! I couldn't agree more. I also sold or gave away everything and it was so liberating. Like you I don't miss any of it. It's like a weight off your shoulders. And I don't have the desire to buy stuff as I travel around the world either. I am surprised by how easy it has been to just not buy anything. I enjoy driving but when traveling the world I definitely enjoy not driving, instead walking or relying on public transportation or car hire (Uber. Grab, etc.). Look forward to your Vietnam video. I started my Southeast Asia trip in Vietnam back in January. Happy travels!
Thanks so much and hope you are enjoying Asia. We actually switched videos and have already released Vietnam. Enjoy and safe travels.
John and Bev
ua-cam.com/video/th_eS7Xub-s/v-deo.html
In 2021 I downsized and sold most everything I had. I don’t miss the things, insurance, taxes, upkeep of property. I enjoy travel as well.
Be safe and enjoy each day.
That's great. We don't miss them at all.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
What a lovely video. I'm so happy for the both of you. This content makes me think about things differently. Thank you.
Thanks. One of our goals is to challenge people to think differently. We want everyone to have the best possible retirement years.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
What a fantastic video! Thanks for posting. This is a great guide to use to declutter:
Swedish Death Cleaning checklist
Declutter small items first.
Implement a storage system for sentimental mementos and photos.
Determine what items are worth keeping, and what can be let go.
Remove unwanted possessions (donate, toss, or sell them)
Avoid acquiring additional clutter once you've started the cleaning process.
Nov 16, 2022
Thanks so much. We love living with less.
John and Bev
PS Our Philippines video comes out tomorrow.
Very nice video. You both seem very happy and happily married... good for you both! So nice to see. I put my house up for sale last year and got rid of all my stuff...everything! Then the house didn't sell, but I love an empty house with no stuff to worry about. I bought a blow-up mattress to sleep on and that is all I need, plus a computer. I dont' miss the other stuff at all.
Thanks so much. Good for you. We hope your house sells and, based on your name, we hope you kept your golf clubs.😉
Many blessings,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com
My husband and I are getting rid of 40 years of stuff and everything you say is absolutely true. One week after donating boxes a things I can't remember what was in the boxes and I definitely don't need it. The process takes a LONG time like you said it is work. Our goal is to move to Europe and travel about. Thank you for the honesty and inspiration.
That is awesome! Great job and safe travels in Europe.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I don’t think I could go to the extreme you did but there are levels of downsizing for everyone. I definitely agree that stuff is more of a burden then not. We will be retiring and downsizing soon. I was thinking of the emotional aspect…that will be the hardest. I have no regrets because we have traveled and with our children as well.
We agree that this life is not for everyone, but there are benefits to living with less and it is working well for us. Good luck with your retirement and downsizing journey.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
Congratulations. Amazing video. I just subscribed.😊
Thank you so much for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for subscribing.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
I absolutely love this!! Thank you for sharing!! This is absolutely liberating. My biggest dream and goal 🎉❤
Thanks and so glad you enjoyed it. Good luck with your dream and goal.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
We did a similar downsizing at 55 to an apartment from a house. Then to a boat but we still have stuff on the boat 😂. We digitized our pictures with the Photomyne app then backed them up. Much easier to look at the photos now than in a box. Your video is 100% true. I hope many younger people will watch. Video is being shared with our kid as we speak.
Great job. We've thought about a boat someday, but still too much of the world to see. Safe travels and happy sailing,
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com/
SO PROUD OF U2 & U R SUCH EXAMPLE TO YOUR KIDS & INSPIRATION TO US ALL AS I'VE BEEN ON THE ROAD FOR OVER 8 YRS AFTER RECYCLING LITERARY ALL MY BELONGINGS EXCEPT A CARRY ON + BACK PACK, LOVING LIFE!
Thanks for the kind words and love your story of minimalism as well. Safe travels and many blessings.
John and Bev
retirementtravelers.com