Retirees are traveling more than ever before. A March 2025 AARP survey of adults aged 50 and older revealed that over 70 percent plan to travel within the year. Of these, 45 percent anticipate international trips. This trend highlights a strong desire for exploration and new experiences in retirement.
The survey also showed that travel offers significant health benefits for this age group. Specifically, 95 percent of respondents believe travel is good for their mental health. Nearly as many feel it benefits their physical well-being. However, cost remains a primary concern for many retirees when planning their journeys.
Key Takeaways
- Over 70% of adults 50+ plan to travel in 2025.
- 45% of these travelers expect to take international trips.
- Travel is linked to improved mental and physical health.
- Budgeting strategies are essential for retirees to maximize travel experiences.
Smart Planning for Cost-Effective Travel
To make travel more affordable, retirees should start by looking for discounts. Membership organizations like AARP, Costco, and Auto Club often provide special travel deals. These can include savings on flights, hotels, and car rentals.
One effective strategy is to travel during the shoulder season. This period falls between the peak and off-peak travel times. It typically offers fewer crowds and lower prices. Researching a destination's weather, local holidays, and fluctuating rates can help travelers find the best deals.
Travel Statistics
- 68% of individuals aged 60-69 and 70+ plan to travel in 2025.
- 95% of surveyed retirees link travel to better mental health.
Exploring Rail and Road Travel
Train travel is growing in popularity among retirees. It offers convenience, variety, and a touch of luxury. Rob Payne, chief commercial officer at Vacations by Rail, noted its value. "Rail vacations offer excellent value because so much is included in the price," Payne stated.
"Transportation between destinations, quality hotel stays, guided excursions, and many meals are all bundled together, eliminating the need to budget for each item separately."
— Rob Payne, Chief Commercial Officer, Vacations by Rail
Vacations by Rail also offers an exclusive five percent discount for AARP members. They frequently provide special offers and seasonal promotions on popular tours. This makes train travel an attractive option for budget-conscious seniors.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, camping, glamping, and RV-ing present excellent cost-saving opportunities. These options help travelers save on hotel and transportation expenses. Services like The Dyrt simplify campsite bookings. The Dyrt allows users to search for free or low-cost campgrounds, read reviews, and find discounts.
Ryan Fliss, head of growth for The Dyrt, emphasized the need for planning. "Camping offers lots of opportunities to make great memories, but a trip requires planning," he said. The Dyrt provides tools to find RV parks, glamping spots, and campsites near national and state parks. Users can also plan routes with recommended stops, points of interest, and services.
Finding Affordable Flights and Stays
For trips requiring air travel, finding the best fares is crucial. Travel expert Chris Dong suggests signing up for airfare deal services. Companies like Going or Thrifty Traveler Premium send real-time alerts for price drops. These deals often disappear quickly, so retirees with flexible schedules can benefit most.
Dong also advises using credit card points and airline miles wisely. These loyalty benefits can significantly reduce travel costs. Retirees often have the flexibility to book last-minute travel. This approach can lead to substantial savings on accommodations.
Understanding Shoulder Season
Shoulder season is the period between peak and off-peak travel times. It offers a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to peak season. For example, in Europe, May and September are often considered shoulder months.
Alex Alioto, co-founder of Whimstay, a platform for last-minute vacation rentals, highlights this trend. "Booking windows are shrinking," Alioto explained. "That means incredible vacation rentals are still available—often at better rates—within 30 days of your trip." Whimstay offers these properties at lower prices within that short booking window. This is ideal for flexible retirees looking to save money without compromising quality.
Group Travel and Learning Adventures
Many retirees, having postponed travel, may lack experience in vacation planning. Group travel offers a structured solution. These trips handle all arrangements, including transportation, lodging, meals, and tours. This provides upfront cost clarity and can be tailored to various interests and budgets.
Group tours also offer the chance to meet new people, which is a significant advantage for solo travelers.
Educational travel programs provide enriching experiences. Maeve Hartney, chief program officer at Road Scholar, described their approach. "Many of today’s older adults are aging adventurously and approaching life with a sense of excitement, curiosity, and discovery," Hartney noted.
"Road Scholar goes beyond typical tourist trips and offers immersive, experiential opportunities through behind-the-scenes, curated, and expert-led programs."
— Maeve Hartney, Chief Program Officer, Road Scholar
Road Scholar offers these programs at a low cost due to supporter funding. This makes educational travel accessible to those on a budget, covering destinations across all seven continents. Financial aid, including scholarships and Caregiver Grants, is available for programs in the U.S. and Canada priced under $2,500, according to Ann Simanis, AVP of the office of financial aid and community outreach at Road Scholar.
Resorts, Home Swaps, and National Parks
All-inclusive resorts can offer comfort and luxury at economical prices. These resorts allow guests to plan expenses in advance, as many costs are bundled. Retirees should not assume tropical resort vacations are out of reach. Clear explanations of what is included help travelers find bargains that fit their needs.
For longer vacations, staying in a vacation home instead of a hotel can lead to significant savings. Cooking meals in a rented home reduces dining expenses. HomeToGo provides vacation homes across various price points. For luxury, HomeExchange Collection allows members to swap lodgings globally. This offers an authentic "living like a local" experience.
David Bucci, head of HomeExchange Collection, highlighted the benefits for retirees. "Retirees often have the flexibility for longer stays and off-peak travel, making the unlimited exchange model highly cost-effective," he said.
Exploring America's Natural Wonders
- National parks offer discounted annual or lifetime passes for seniors over 62.
- Volunteering in parks can provide free entry and engagement in conservation.
- Intrepid Travel offers national park trips led by environmental activists.
- Many parks are accessible by Amtrak or can be explored without a personal car.
National parks are popular destinations for retirees. Seniors aged 62 and older can purchase annual or lifetime passes at special rates. They can also enter parks for free by volunteering, contributing to conservation efforts. Intrepid Travel organizes national park trips led by environmental activists, offering an engaging way to explore. Many parks are accessible via Amtrak, providing options for those who prefer not to drive.
Practical Tips for Saving on the Go
Bringing your own snacks and drinks can save money on flights. A refillable water bottle is essential, as most airports have free refill stations. Packing small bags of pretzels, crackers, grapes, or protein bars avoids expensive airline snack boxes. For longer flights, a sandwich or cheese can be a cost-effective meal option.
Consider visiting small towns. With overtourism affecting major destinations, small towns offer a refreshing alternative. They often feature walkable downtowns, unique attractions, and more affordable prices. Local events like county fairs, farmers markets, and festivals provide low-cost entertainment. Many retirees can discover charming places within their own states they have never explored.
Cost-Saving Travel Tips
- Always carry a refillable water bottle.
- Pack your own snacks and meals for flights.
- Look for membership discounts from AARP, Costco, etc.
- Book during shoulder season for better rates.
Cruising into Retirement Adventures
Cruises, both river and ocean, are excellent travel options for retirees. River cruises, in particular, offer a close-to-shore experience, allowing passengers to see small towns, cities, and natural landscapes. Most activities are included, making it easy to plan costs upfront. Excursions range from gentle guided strolls to more active hikes and bike rides. A key benefit is the convenience of visiting new places without constant packing and unpacking.
Ocean cruises provide a wide range of entertainment, dining, and relaxation options. Many cruises are designed for adults only, with activities tailored for mature travelers. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for retirees seeking varied travel adventures.
