Hey! I’m Melissa

I’m proud to have created a flexible lifestyle that allows me to travel anywhere – as long as I have Wifi.

One of the questions I get the most is “How did you do it?”

When I was living in Canada, I always wanted to help.

I became a social worker at the age of 20 and at the time, traveling was a hobby.

When I turned 24 years old, I realized this wasn’t the life I wanted. In 2014, I left Canada with less than CAD 2,000 on my name.

I gave myself a new mission – to help budget travelers travel longer and further and I blogged about it on abrokenbackpack.com.

I embraced my new lifestyle and – I’m still living abroad today.

I was ready to do everything in my power to stay abroad as long as I could. So, I did!

Many are scared to quit the security of a 9-5 job – I was too.

While I had nearly CAD 2,000 in my bank account, I also had student debts (as well as credit card debts…). I moved to Australia with the hope to travel while paying my debts.

Well – turned out Australia was also VERY expensive.

When I quit my farm job,  I started working as a freelance social media manager and content writer while growing the blog.

Let’s be honest – I was still broke for at least two/three years, but at least I was able to travel and support myself.

Over the years, I had to learn many skills to make this lifestyle happen. I learned SEO, affiliate marketing, social media strategies, etc.

Let’s fast forward to now – A Broken Backpack brings me money every day.

I paid off my debts in 2019 and I finished the year with my first 5-figure month.

It was scary – until it wasn’t anymore.

Over time, I realized that mindset was one of the most important things when it comes to the digital nomad lifestyle and entrepreneurship.

Which Brings Me To You

I’m here to help you make money online so you can turn your laptop into a passport.

Through our free content, coaching sessions, and books – I’m here to help you build a life that you love. A life that comes with freedom – and a bunch of stamps in your passport.

Whether you’re starting as a digital nomad or growing your online business or simply thinking about making the transition, I’m here to help you reach your craziest dreams.

While Nomad Life 101 is also a business – I’m proud to earn a living while doing what I love. You should know that most of the content is absolutely free of charge. (And yes, I sell things too.)

Nomad Life 101 was created because there’s a lot of scammy ideas related to the digital nomad lifestyle. I keep it real and honest. I don’t believe in overnight miraculous success – in fact, it took me years to get here.

But I learned a few things along the way, so you won’t have to do the mistakes I did.

Thank you for reading. I hope this is just the beginning of an amazing journey.

And I hope you’ll be a part of it.

Talk soon,