Not so long ago, your dreams of exploring the world were probably on hold. Between packed schedules and career demands, it could be hard to manage even a weekend away. And even then, chances are you were limited to destinations within easy driving distance.
Travel before retirement is often much too complicated and time-consuming to consider. Now the runway is clear. Your time is your own. Your bags are packed, and you’re ready to go. Still, retirement traveling comes with its own challenges. You need to navigate your changing wants and needs while trying to get the best bang for those precious retirement bucks. If you haven’t made the switch to active senior living communities, you’ll need to find someone to house sit, and there are always health issues to consider.
Does this mean retirement has to be travel-free? Not at all! With some research and advance planning, you can find fabulous, cost-conscious travel destinations to expand your horizons without breaking your bank.
Here are a few travel tips for seniors to get you started on your journey.
A Little Advance Planning Goes a Long Way
Planning and anticipating a trip is part of the fun and makes travel easier and more affordable. Booking in advance definitely saves you money on flights, cruises, and hotels. Check travel sites like CheapAir to find out just how far in advance your flight is available for booking. Sites like Hopper let you monitor flight and hotel prices so you can choose the best time to book.
When it Comes to Packing, Less is More
Airline math is simple: The less you pack, the less you pay. Excess baggage fees add up quickly, so just pack the bare essentials. If you can squeeze all your necessities into a carry-on, you’ll avoid luggage charges and the long wait at baggage claim. What’s more, you get to sail pass those poor folks at the lost luggage counter as you roll your carry-on directly to the start of your adventure!
Free Stuff is, well…Free!
As you plan your dream trip, take time to research any free attractions at your destinations. From museums to parks and zoos, every destination offers interesting attractions that don’t cost a dime, but if you don’t know about ‘em, you can’t take advantage of ‘em.
Let’s Make a Deal
Here’s one of the best senior travel budget trips we know: package deals often include senior discounts. A host of sites offer package deals, including:
Cash in Your Just Rewards
Credit cards offer a multitude of airline or hotel travel rewards programs, which translate into significant savings if you take advantage of them. Check your cards to see which programs they offer. If other cards have better offers, well, maybe it’s time for a new card!
Dodge Crowds and High Prices
Peak travel times aren't always the best time to travel to a destination. When you were working or raising the kids, your travel was probably limited to school breaks and other high-traffic periods, and for most of your fellow travelers, that’s still the case. You’re not restricted to busy travel times anymore, allowing you to take advantage of off-peak prices.
Booking a trip even a week off during the high season often translates into real savings on flights and hotels, and it’s a pleasure to discover cities without hordes of other tourists. You won’t spend all day waiting in line to see Michelangelo’s David or the Eiffel Tower, and with fewer crowds, you’ll have a much more relaxing trip.
Quid Pro Quo
Here’s a travel tip for seniors who like to give back: Volunteering abroad can result in a unique travel experience for free. You give your time, and you get free room and board. Some organizations even cover travel expenses. Given how many seniors enjoy volunteer work, it’s a win-win, so check out sites like workaway.info or worldpackers.
Over 50 Travel Groups for Active Senior Living
Screaming kids and hard-partying young adults? No thanks. A group of peers willing to share a memorable experience? Yes, please. Many travel companies offer destinations and itineraries designed for older, wiser travelers. The best handle all your travel details so you’re free to enjoy your trip. Each of the following sites has a slightly different focus to accommodate personal travel goals:
Cost-Conscious Travel Destinations
Getting off the beaten path is another of our valuable senior travel budget trips. There’s a world of fascinating and fabulous vacation options that are less well-known (and less expensive) than the usual destinations. Whether you’re looking for a beach vacation or want to soak up some foreign history and culture, here are some destinations that will be rich and rewarding – and a little less taxing on the wallet:
- Nassau, the Bahamas
- Bruges, Belgium
- Glasgow, Scotland
- Budapest, Hungary
- Galway. Ireland
If you lived at Overture Apartments, travel would be as easy as closing the door and turning the key. Book a tour today. Your gang of new friends is standing by to say hello – and wish you Bon Voyage!