Teen Chooses Life on Trains Over Rent, Embraces Freedom and Challenges

A resourceful 17-year-old from Germany has found an unconventional way to save money on rent by living on overnight trains. For the past two years, Lasse Stolley has been riding the rails across Germany, transforming train cars into his mobile home.

Lasse discovered that living on trains cost him significantly less than renting an apartment. He also managed to find ways to get food for free. However, this lifestyle comes with its own set of challenges, such as the lack of privacy and the need to minimize possessions to fit into a 30-liter backpack.

Growing up in a northern German village, Lasse enjoyed traveling to Scandinavia and exploring nature with his family. His passion for computer programming led him to teach himself during the pandemic, and he planned to start an apprenticeship as a software engineer in summer 2022. When the program was unexpectedly canceled, he turned to an alternative he had seen on a TV report: living on trains.

Lasse began his train-based life on August 8, 2022, relishing the freedom to travel anywhere in Germany daily. Despite initial concerns from his family about his safety and sleep, Lasse persevered. The early months were tough, with frequent returns to his parents' home due to exhaustion and stress. Over time, however, Lasse adapted and his family became supportive.

His daily routine includes taking overnight InterCity Express trains, having breakfast in train company lounges, and freshening up at local swimming pools. He spends his days exploring new cities, hiking, and enjoying outdoor adventures. Despite the challenges, Lasse finds the advantages of his unique lifestyle outweigh the drawbacks.

Lasse’s annual living expenses, including train fares and other costs, amount to less than €10,000. He believes this is a bargain compared to traditional living expenses. His story is a testament to finding creative solutions and embracing unconventional lifestyles.