Why I’m So Inspired by Itchy Boots (And What She’s Teaching Me About Freedom)

I’ve always dreamed of exploring the world on my own terms. But right now, I’m still figuring things out: how to earn remotely, how to afford it, and how to get past the fear. Watching travel vloggers like Itchy Boots makes the dream feel a little more real and a lot more possible.

Here’s what I’ve learned about her journey, and why it’s giving me hope.

Who Is Itchy Boots?

Her real name is Noraly Schoenmaker, and she’s a solo motorcycle traveler from the Netherlands. She left her job, sold most of her things, and decided to ride around the world alone. By 2025, she had covered over 175,000 kilometers and visited more than 60 countries.

That’s not just travel. That’s a lifestyle choice. And it’s making me wonder what it would take for me to do something like that one day.

Profile Summary

Her Story: From Science to the Open Road

Noraly was born on June 30, 1987, in Rotterdam. She studied geochemistry, almost got a PhD, and even worked at a dredging company. But something felt off. She tried the “normal path,” and it didn’t fit.

A trip to Australia, New Zealand, and India opened her eyes. Travel wasn’t just a break. It felt like home.

In 2018, she made the big decision:

• Quit her job
• Sold her stuff
• Bought a motorcycle

And that’s how Itchy Boots was born.

Her Motorcycle Adventures (So Far)

Here’s a quick look at the bikes she’s ridden and where they’ve taken her:

She has crossed deserts, mountains, and war zones, mostly alone. She even kept riding after a major accident and a motorcycle theft in Iraq.

When her bike was stolen, she didn’t quit. She found it days later, stripped of key parts, and fixed what she could. That kind of courage makes me believe I can face my own fears too, one step at a time.

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A post shared by Itchy Boots // Noraly (@itchybootstravel)

Is There an Itchy Boots Boyfriend?

This is something a lot of fans wonder about, and I did too. But from everything I’ve seen, Noraly chooses to keep her personal life private.

She’s mentioned how much she values independence and solo travel. Honestly, I think that’s part of what makes her journey so powerful. It’s not about who’s by her side. It’s about the fact that she’s doing this on her own, for herself.

That kind of self-trust is something I really admire. It reminds me that I don’t need permission or a partner to start moving toward my dream either.

Does She Travel Alone?

Yes. She rides, films, and edits everything herself. There’s no crew. It’s just her and her bike, which she named Frankie.

That kind of self-reliance is rare and inspiring. It reminds me that I don’t need a team or perfect setup to start something meaningful.

How She Makes Money on the Road

I always wondered how travel vloggers afford all this.

Noraly turned her passion into a brand. As of 2025, her estimated net worth is $845.6K, and she earns up to $1.2 million a year from:

• YouTube ads (millions of monthly views)
• Gear sponsorships (like Arai Helmet)
• Merchandise sales at ItchyBoots.com
• Her first book (coming June 3, 2025)

What’s Next for Itchy Boots?

She’s releasing her first book, called “Itchy Boots,” covering her most intense travel moments, including near-death rides and unexpected kindness.

She’s also appearing live at the ABR Festival 2025, where she’ll share behind-the-scenes footage and lessons from Season 8.

What I’m Learning From Her Journey

I’m not a digital nomad yet. But watching Noraly makes me feel like I could get there. She reminds me that:

• You don’t need perfect conditions to begin
• You can turn your interests into income
• Setbacks don’t stop you, they shape you

Even though I ride a motorcycle every day, I’m learning from her how to take risks that go beyond the road, one small step at a time.

Want to Follow Itchy Boots?

Here’s where you can find her:

• YouTube
• Instagram
• Website & Merch

Final Thoughts

Watching Itchy Boots doesn’t just make me want to travel. It makes me want to live with more intention and build a life where freedom isn’t something I just dream about, but something I prepare for.

If you’re also dreaming of the road, let me know. I’d love to hear what’s inspiring you right now.

FAQs about Itchy Boots