Baby Boomer Travel Trends

The Institute of Customer Service report that adults over 55 spend £2.2bn more on travel annually than millennials, making it vital that their hopes and desires for travel experience are understood and listened to. The opportunity to travel is often more possible for older people than those of younger generations. With no young children and often no mortgage or large housing costs to consider, the over 50s have more to spend on the things they love, and for many, this includes travel. Baby Boomer travel trends include traveling more and for longer, as well as spending more money on trips than younger demographics.

Research has shown that people between the ages of 60 and 74 want to travel as intensively as possible while they still have their health. They recognised the time to travel in retirement is quite limited, and therefore making the most of it is vital. Many older people are still in work, but those who aren’t can pick and choose the best locations and times of year and enjoy the freedom to travel at their leisure.

Below we’re exploring some of the key Baby Boomer travel trends and where this demographic group may be getting the most from their voyaging.

1. Cities and Culture

Many Baby Boomers are redefining what city breaks mean by seeking more in-depth cultural experiences rather than surface-level sightseeing. They are particularly drawn to cities with rich historical legacies, renowned museums, vibrant art scenes, and diverse culinary offerings. Some travelers might spend weeks in a single city, enrolling in local cooking classes, attending theater performances, or joining guided historical tours that go beyond the typical tourist trails. This generation values authenticity, often choosing to stay in locally-owned accommodations and dine at family-run restaurants to get a true taste of local culture. Furthermore, with more time to spare than younger travelers, they have the luxury to wander off the beaten path, visiting neighborhoods and cultural hotspots that may not be listed in typical travel guides. Baby Boomers see travel as a means of personal growth and enrichment, and they seek out immersive experiences that reflect this desire for ongoing learning and adventure.

2. Skip-Gen Travel

Skip-Gen Travel also provides a meaningful bonding experience between grandparents and grandchildren, offering a chance to create lifelong memories and share family stories that span generations. These trips often emphasize educational and adventure-based activities, such as visiting national parks, exploring historic landmarks, or engaging in cultural workshops that resonate with both age groups. By taking over travel planning, grandparents can tailor itineraries to match both their interests and the curiosities of their grandchildren. Destinations like Washington, D.C., with its historical sites, or Costa Rica, known for wildlife adventures, make ideal skip-gen travel spots. Additionally, many tour companies have introduced packages specifically designed for these trips, with multi-generational accommodations, family-friendly excursions, and expert guides to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free. This trend not only lets grandparents enjoy the thrill of exploration through the eyes of their grandchildren but also strengthens family bonds by sharing travel experiences without the typical distractions of daily life.

3. Greener Travels

For older travelers, eco-conscious choices often extend beyond carbon offsetting. They might prioritize hotels with sustainability certifications, dine at farm-to-table restaurants, and participate in eco-friendly tours that emphasize responsible tourism. Eco-conscious Baby Boomers are also turning to agritourism, staying on sustainable farms, participating in seasonal harvests, and learning about organic farming practices firsthand. Many are willing to invest in carbon-offset initiatives to counterbalance the environmental cost of long-distance travel, supporting reforestation projects or renewable energy initiatives. Some might even avoid air travel entirely, exploring regions reachable by car or train and allowing them to discover hidden gems close to home. This shift toward environmentally friendly travel aligns with their desire to leave a positive impact on the places they visit, ensuring that the beauty and integrity of these destinations remain intact for future generations. By making deliberate choices, they prove that eco-friendly travel can be enriching, sustainable, and deeply rewarding.

4. Slow Travel

Slow travel has become a cherished way for Baby Boomers to explore, allowing them to truly savor each moment of their journey. With extended stays, they often choose accommodations that foster a sense of “living like a local,” such as renting an apartment or a cottage rather than staying in hotels. This slower pace allows for a more mindful travel experience, with travelers often taking the time to learn a few phrases in the local language, shop at neighborhood markets, and engage with artisans and shopkeepers. Such connections deepen their appreciation of the destination and contribute to the local economy. Whether they are strolling through Rome’s less-visited neighborhoods or spending a week on a vineyard in Tuscany, slow travel provides an opportunity to build lasting memories and relationships with locals. This mindful approach reflects a growing preference for quality over quantity, as Baby Boomers seek deeper cultural immersion and connection over the rush of ticking off popular tourist sites.

5. Embracing Solo Trips

With advancements in travel technology and communication, older travelers are increasingly embracing solo trips as a way to personalize their adventures and travel at their own pace. For many, solo travel represents freedom, allowing them to select destinations and experiences aligned with personal interests rather than accommodating others’ schedules or preferences. Many Baby Boomers, confident and independent, prefer to research and book their trips online, taking advantage of solo-focused travel platforms that offer tailored itineraries and support. Solo travelers often seek out walking tours, local guides, and cooking classes that facilitate social interaction without the need for a travel companion. Additionally, volunteer tourism has gained traction among this group, with organizations offering opportunities to engage in community projects, wildlife conservation, or educational programs. For some, these solo trips become transformative experiences, fostering self-discovery and lifelong friendships, while the option to join group tours provides security and companionship when desired.

6. DNA Travel

DNA travel combines the excitement of exploration with the intimacy of self-discovery, making it a deeply personal journey. As older travelers uncover their ancestry, they may find themselves drawn to cultural practices, foods, and customs that resonate with their heritage, offering a profound connection to their roots. For example, someone with Irish ancestry might attend traditional music sessions in Galway, or those with Italian heritage may trace family records in small Tuscan villages. DNA travel also often includes heritage tours, language immersion courses, and visits to ancestral towns that bring family history to life. Companies specializing in ancestry travel are now offering customized itineraries, including expert-guided tours that assist with historical research, making these trips educational and heartfelt. Beyond the historical sites and genealogy records, Baby Boomers engage with local historians, archivists, and community members, gaining unique insights into their family’s past. This trend allows them to bridge past and present, fostering a deeper understanding of their cultural identity and the legacy they wish to pass on to future generations.

Travelling in your retirement or in later life is a unique opportunity to plan your adventures around your lifestyle. Your preferences can be a priority, and you can take the time to choose destinations which really appeal to you. Whether you want to immerse yourself in a new country and take things slowly or discover your ancestral past, satisfying your wanderlust is easy with the right trip.

If retirement is imminent or you’re reaching later life and are ready for the next adventure, now’s the perfect time to book that trip and explore the world.