Noraly Schoenmaker’s Itchy Boots: A Life of Adventure & Success
Noraly Schoenmaker turned the world into her playground, riding 175,000+ km solo and proving that adventure has no limits.
For many, the idea of freedom remains a dream, something distant and unattainable. But for Noraly Schoenmaker, known online as Itchy Boots, freedom is a choice, one she has shaped through years of travel and exploration.
With over 175,000 kilometres of solo motorcycle travel across 60+ countries, Noraly has built a life centered on movement, discovery, and storytelling. As of 2025, she is continuing her journey, releasing her first book, and taking on new challenges.
This is the story of how she transitioned from a geologist to one of the most well-known motorcycle adventurers on YouTube.
Profile Summary
| Name | Noraly Schoenmaker |
|---|---|
| Known As | Itchy Boots |
| Age | 37 years |
| Birthday | June 30, 1987 |
| Birthplace | Rotterdam, Netherlands |
| Nationality | Dutch |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (173 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 64 kg |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Profession | YouTuber, Traveler |
Early Life and Career in Science
Noraly Schoenmaker was born on June 30, 1987, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. She was raised in a household that encouraged hard work and independence, her father owned a hardware store, while her mother managed the home. From a young age, she was curious about the world, but she followed a structured path in her studies.
She pursued a degree in geochemistry and was on track to pursue a Ph.D. However, after completing her education, she felt disconnected from the academic and corporate world. A trip to Australia, New Zealand, and India changed her perspective, introducing her to a different way of living, one where travel was not an escape but a daily reality.
Over the next few years, she travelled across Indonesia, South America, and East Africa, but eventually, she ran out of money. She returned to the Netherlands and spent five years working for a dredging company. The job provided stability, but she realized she wasn’t where she wanted to be.
In 2018, she made a decisive move:
- Quit her job
- Sold most of her belongings
- Started a new journey, this time on a motorcycle
This was the moment Itchy Boots was born.
Motorcycle Travel: From Hobby to a Full-Time Journey
Noraly’s travels have taken her through some of the most challenging terrains and remote regions in the world. Each journey has been a progression, with her choice of motorcycles evolving along the way.
| Year | Motorcycle | Notable Journeys |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Royal Enfield Himalayan | India, First motorcycle journey |
| 2019 | Honda CB500X | South America, Central Asia |
| 2025 | Yamaha Tenere 600 | Asia, Latest adventure |
Her motorcycle is not just a mode of transport, it’s a tool for exploration. By riding, she can experience places beyond typical tourist routes, interact with local communities, and navigate landscapes that challenge both her skills and endurance.
After recovering from a serious accident, she’s proving once again that setbacks don’t define you, your response does.
The Road to Asia: Itchy Boots Season 8
In 2025, Noraly embarked on her most ambitious adventure yet: The Road to Asia. This journey came with new challenges, including one of her most difficult setbacks, the theft of her motorcycle in Northern Iraq.
She shared the experience with her audience:
“I thought I’d never say this, but my worst nightmare came true. My motorcycle has been stolen in Northern Iraq. I just can’t believe what’s happening.” – Noraly Schoenmaker
For any traveller, losing their vehicle is a major setback, but for Noraly, whose motorcycle is central to her journey, it was even more disruptive. However, she continued forward.
Within days, she recovered her bike, though essential electrical components had been stripped. Despite the damage, she found a way to continue riding.
How Itchy Boots Funds Her Travels
While her adventures take her across continents, her influence extends beyond the road, transforming her journey into a thriving brand. From YouTube ad revenue to sponsorships, merchandise, and ambassador deals, Noraly has turned her passion into a highly successful career.
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): $845.6K
- Potential Earnings (Including Sponsorships & Merch): Up to $1.2M
- Income Streams:
- YouTube ad revenue (millions of views per month)
- Brand sponsorships (Arai Helmet, Rev’it Sport, and more)
- Merchandise sales (ItchyBoots.store)
- Upcoming book sales (expected to contribute significantly in 2025)
Personal Life and Independence
While many followers are curious about her personal life, Noraly has chosen to keep certain aspects private.
- Is she married? No, Noraly has no immediate plans to marry.
- Does she have a boyfriend? She has not publicly shared details about relationships.
- What is her main priority? Her focus remains on travel, personal growth, and content creation.
Her lifestyle demonstrates that happiness is not tied to traditional expectations—it is about shaping life based on personal fulfillment.
What’s Next for Itchy Boots?
📖 First Book Release – “Itchy Boots”
For years, Noraly has shared her journey through videos. Now, she is bringing her experiences to a book format.
📌 Release Date: June 3, 2025
📌 Available In: USA, UK, India, Australia
📌 Content: A firsthand account of her most significant travel experiences
🎤 ABR Festival 2025 – Meet Noraly in Person
Noraly is set to appear at the Adventure Bike Rider (ABR) Festival 2025, where she will discuss:
- Behind-the-scenes experiences
- The realities of solo motorcycling
- Insights from her latest journey
For those looking to connect with her in real life, this is a rare opportunity.
Lessons for Aspiring Nomad Travelers
Noraly’s journey is filled with valuable insights for those who want to pursue a nomadic lifestyle.
✔ Start with what you have – You don’t need a perfect setup to begin.
✔ Develop adaptability – Travel often involves unexpected challenges.
✔ Monetize your passion – Turning a skill into income allows long-term sustainability.
✔ Prioritize safety – Learn about cultures, laws, and road conditions before setting out.
✔ Find joy in the process – Travel isn’t just about destinations—it’s about the experiences along the way.
Where to Follow Itchy Boots
📍 YouTube: Itchy Boots Channel
📍 Instagram: @itchybootstravel
📍 Website & Merch: ItchyBoots.com
Conclusion
Noraly Schoenmaker’s transition from a geologist to a full-time motorcycle traveler shows that life can be shaped by choices. Her journey isn’t just about travel, it’s about continuously adapting, learning, and embracing uncertainty.
For those who dream of living as a nomad, her story isn’t just inspiring, it’s proof that with the right mindset, it is possible.
Don’t Miss These Nomad Travelers
If you enjoy Itchy Boots, check out these inspiring adventurers:
- Christian Schaffer – A solo traveler capturing the beauty of van life.
- Backpacking Bananas – Budget travel and backpacking wisdom from Christianne Risman.
Discover more nomadic adventures!
