Over the past year, an unexpected trend has swept across America: thousands of people are quitting their steady jobs to hit the road—often with nothing but a backpack and a sense of adventure. From young professionals to retirees, this new wave of “travel quitters” is redefining what it means to live and work in the 21st century.

What’s driving this mass exodus? Experts point to a mix of pandemic burnout, a desire for more meaningful experiences, and the rise of remote work that makes location irrelevant. People are trading cubicles for camper vans, corporate meetings for mountain hikes, and daily commutes for ocean views.

And the stories they’re bringing back are inspiring. One couple documented their 6-month cross-country RV trip and shared how they discovered hidden gems—from small towns with amazing local food to secret hiking spots that even locals don’t know about. Another solo traveler recounted how traveling helped her overcome anxiety and find new purpose.

This movement isn’t just about escaping work; it’s about reshaping the American Dream. It raises questions about what truly matters: money, security, or freedom.