Retirement can be one of the most enjoyable times in your life. Without work commitments or the constraints of raising a family, people find they have more time to spend doing the things they love, including seeing the world. For many, travel is a big part of retirement, but this is something that requires some forward-planning. Here are some tips on how to plan for retirement travel.
Plan Early & Carefully
The sooner you know where you want to go, the better as this will allow you to start budgeting for and planning your trip. If you’re stuck for ideas, why not create a bucket list of places you’ve always wanted to visit but never got around to? Remember that with no work to rush back for, trips can be as long – or short – as you like and you might want to consider travelling to several destinations near one another by going island hopping or on a road trip, for example. You may find that you can get discounts for booking early or if you’re within a specific age bracket so it’s always worth checking and enquiring about special offers before you book.
Think About Experiences
Travel isn’t just about your destination, it’s also about the experiences you have while you’re away so think about the kinds of activities you enjoy or new things you’d like to try in your retirement. Have you always wanted to see the Northern Lights? Or do you fancy sleeping under the stars, wild camping? Maybe you want to sunbathe on the very best beaches in the world or visit historic sites? This will help you find the perfect destinations for your retirement travels.
Who Are You Travelling With?
Who you’re travelling with is just as important as where you go. Some people love travelling solo, whereas others prefer to travel with their partner or friends.
Travelling as part of a larger group means you’ll need to be prepared to compromise on some things but on the other hand, it can allow you to spread the cost and means you’re more likely to try new experiences, with friends and loved ones encouraging and supporting you.
What to Pack
You’ll need to pack all the usual travel essentials such as your passport, travel documents, sunscreen and any medications you need while you’re away. What clothing you pack will depend on where you’re going. For adventure holidays you might need waterproof clothing and hiking boots, whereas, for a more laid-back trip in the sun, a mix of casual and smart outfits might be needed, such as women’s holiday skirts, swimsuits, dresses and sandals. Consider the climate of your destination and the kinds of activities you’ll be doing while you’re there.
Do Your Research
Once you’ve decided on a destination and the types of things you want to do while you’re there, be sure to do your research about the best places to stay and excursions to book. Use review sites to compare opinions but remember that what someone else likes or dislikes might not be the same as you!
When you’re travelling, visit areas popular with locals as well as the tourist hotspots and take some time to explore off the beaten track. This can give you a more authentic travel experience that allows you to live as a local, which will make your travels even more special and memorable.
