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A Wisconsin woman embarked on a life-changing journey after losing her father, selling her home to travel the world in a truck. This decision stemmed from a realization that life is meant to be lived fully and without regrets.
Ashley Kay, 36, faced the sudden loss of her father, Tom Kay, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 57 in December 2015. The tragic event served as a wake-up call, prompting her to reassess her priorities.
Reflecting on a Father’s Adventures
After her father’s death, Ashley received an outpouring of stories from friends and relatives about Tom’s travels. These tales painted a vivid picture of a man who embraced life with open arms.
“The year after he passed, countless friends and family called to share incredible stories about how my dad explored the world. Those accounts inspired me to break free from my small town and explore new horizons,” Ashley shared.
A Journey Begins
This spark of inspiration fueled Ashley’s desire to travel extensively. She spent several years visiting destinations across the globe.
During a scuba diving trip to Roatán, an island in Honduras, she met a full-time traveler who had adopted a nomadic lifestyle. This encounter profoundly influenced her. The traveler, who had given up his job in Austria, relied on hitchhiking and public transportation instead of airplanes.
Learning from Experience
As they spoke, Ashley inquired about the most challenging aspect of his adventures. His response was transformative: he regretted not embarking on his journey earlier. This statement resonated deeply, pushing her to take action.
Making the Leap
In March 2023, Ashley made the bold decision to sell her three-bedroom family home. With proceeds from the sale, she purchased a $44,000 Toyota Tacoma, ready to embrace the road.
Setting out for Baja, Mexico, she brought along her beloved black lab, Porter. Together, they have since roamed both North and South America, embracing the full-time travel lifestyle.
Finding a Home on the Road
Baja, Mexico quickly became Ashley’s favorite destination. She describes it as a place that resonates with her soul.
“The beautiful landscape, the ocean, and the serenity of the Sea of Cortez bring me pure joy. It truly feels like home,” she remarked.
Challenges on the Journey
While Ashley loves her nomadic life, it comes with its own set of challenges. Vehicle troubles have proven to be some of the most daunting obstacles.
“In the deserts of Peru, I found myself two-and-a-half hours away from the nearest town when my suspension system malfunctioned. It was quite a stressful situation,” she recounted.
She faced further difficulties in Costa Rica when a flat tire struck at an elevation of 12,500 feet while camping. Ashley took matters into her own hands, repairing the tire herself.
The Reality of Solo Travel
“Traveling solo demands significant effort. Daily tasks can become overwhelming, leading to potential burnout. However, the adventure is incredibly rewarding,” she noted.
Adapting to Change
Sadly, in August 2024, Ashley faced another heartbreaking loss when her dog, Porter, passed away. This left her to navigate her travels alone.
While she grapples with this change, Ashley remains optimistic about the journey ahead. She acknowledges the difficulties along the way but emphasizes the importance of perseverance.
“Every issue can be resolved with patience and problem-solving. I’ve learned that continuing forward, even amid challenges, is essential,” she said.
Looking to the Future
Ashley’s adventures serve as a testament to the transformative power of travel and the resilience that stems from overcoming personal tragedy. Her story encourages others to embrace life, explore new places, and live with intention.
