Whether you have ambitions to go globetrotting in your retirement or want to see what Australia has to offer, it is possible. The biggest roadblock for anyone looking to travel is finances, and this can be especially true as a retiree. This doesn’t mean that travelling in retirement is out of the picture, it just means it’s time to get savvy. We are going to run through money-saving tips, how to travel in retirement, and the ideal locations that should be on your bucket list.
If you’re looking for more tips and recommendations for your retirement travels, browse more of our dedicated articles on our website today!
Travelling in retirement doesn’t have to be hard. Some common concerns faced by those preparing to retire are the price of holidays and finding destinations that match their needs. Both can easily be solved with some savvy saving and budgeting, as well as forward planning and research. Luckily for you we have done most of the legwork and collated the best advice in one place. Let’s start with money smart travelling.
Retirement grants you a world of freedoms, but this may feel restricted depending on your budget. We want everyone to feel comfortable and confident to retire and travel and not be weighed down by the burdens of finances. Below are the best tips for maximising your holiday without blowing the bank.
The first step for any holiday, no matter your age, should be a well thought out budget. You will want to think about transport, accommodation, food, souvenirs, the whole lot. With a clear budget, you can give yourself a safety net in the event of surprise costs, and manage your own spending based on your planned cost brackets. Researching the average costs for the place you are travelling to can help set expectations and also identify opportunities for saving.
The world is your oyster, and you have all the time to explore it, so why travel when everyone else does? By travelling in the off-season, you will more than likely be saving on flights and accommodations as well as access to popular attractions. Additional activities may also come in cheaper with more availability options thanks to smaller crowds. A cheaper and quieter holiday? It’s a win-win situation.
By taking advantage of exchange rates, you can make the most of your money. Researching exchange rates and economic trends can identify locations where your dollar will go further. The Euro and USD may not be your friend when you retire and travel, so explore somewhere else (if you wish) – who knows where you’ll end up.
Booking a tour can be an effective way to save some money and get the most out of your holiday. Booking a tour covers most of your holiday expense upfront and can help with your budgeting as you don’t have to break up so many costs over a number of days/locations. It is also a great way to stay comfortable, reduce your stress, and make friends while on holiday.
There is nothing worse than having to carry a 30-kilo suitcase up five flights of the narrowest Parisian staircase ever made. That’s why when traveling in retirement it is essential to prioritise accessibility. Before you set your heart on a location, research its accessibility. From accommodation to public transport, it’s important to know if and how you can get around.
Before setting off it’s best to pop into see the doctor to discuss your travels. You will want to go over any medical concerns, medications, and necessary vaccinations before traveling. This is especially true if you have chosen a different climate for your holiday.
You may not be able to do 12-hour days on your feet, but you can still get the most out of your holiday. It is recommended that you make an itinerary for each day that you’re comfortable doing and consider the pacing. To further reduce any strain you may experience, pack light. You don’t need 5 pairs of shoes and your entire bathroom cabinet with you.
If you follow the advice above retirement and travel can go hand in hand. Whether you are heading off overseas or exploring Australia we hope you can make the most of your time and money travelling your way. Below we have listed some of the top locations you should be considering to get you started.
With a mild climate, stunning beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle, Portugal is popular among retirees. They have an affordable cost of living making travel easy on the wallet.
For a more cultural experience Japan is a great place for retirees. See the bustling city of Tokyo, or historic temples of Kyoto, all easily accessible by public transport. Add this one to your list.
A great destination for balancing culture and budgeting. Travelling here will allow you to get the most out of your holiday, and extra points if you love Thai food.
A classic holiday location that offers a lot to retirees. See the history and culture in the big cities like Florence and Rome or head out to the countryside for a peaceful retreat in Tuscany.
Who said you must go overseas; Australia is perfect for retirees. With a variety of activities in each state, from beaches in QLD, to arts in VIC, it’s time to explore your own backyard.
If you’re looking to broaden your horizons, whether its across our great southern land or you’re going international, we have several articles related to travel, lifestyle and even health to ensure your next adventure is planned with efficiency. Browse our site for more today!
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