Travel Over 60: Benefits, Bucket Lists, & Beyond

If you’re considering a retirement plan that includes seeing new cities and countries, maybe even continents, you’re on the right track! Travel over 60 is not just possible but can be incredibly enjoyable.

Now is the perfect time to tackle the journey of a lifetime. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of European cities, the serenity of natural landscapes, or the temptation of exotic cultures, there’s a world of experiences waiting for you to explore. So, pack your travel bags and get ready to embrace the adventure that awaits.

The world is your oyster, and your 60s are a great time to start – or continue – traveling. If you’re a first-time explorer, you most likely have a ton of questions, so read on for some tips and inspiration before you plan your trip.

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Is it Good to Travel Over 60?

Yes, traveling over 60 can be incredibly beneficial and fulfilling for many seniors. In fact, traveling can keep you young if you do it right. 

As long as you are mobile, financially able, and have a clean bill of health from your doctor, traveling the world can only bring you greater joy in your later years. 

At What Age Do Most Seniors Stop Traveling?

Many seniors continue to travel well into their 60s, 70s, and even 80s and beyond. Of course, health concerns may stop you from traveling, but that can happen at any age. If you’re healthy enough to hop on a plane or ship, you’re at the right age to travel.  

Benefits of Traveling Past Your 60s

Besides just pure enjoyment, there are a few other benefits of traveling in your 60s. 

• Personal Growth: Explore new cultures, activities, and landscapes to broaden your perspective and nurture curiosity.
• Physical and Mental Well-being: Engage in activities like walking, hiking, and learning new things to promote cardiovascular health, mobility, and cognitive function.
• Social Connections: Meet people from diverse backgrounds and forge new friendships while traveling, reducing feelings of loneliness and enhancing overall happiness.

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Great Ways to Travel Over 60

There are so many options for traveling in today’s world. However, some may be more suited to seniors than others. Here are some of the best ways to travel over 60. 

Slow Travel

This is a splendid way for seniors to travel. You get to enjoy new sights and sounds without feeling rushed in any way. Rent a vacation home or apartment for an extended stay, explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and savor the local cuisine.

Group Tours

A group tour usually means you don’t have to plan any of the itinerary activities, your meals are also often organized for you, and you have a bunch of travel buddies going with you. These can remove travel stress and ensure you get to sit back and just relax while you sightsee.

Cruises

All-inclusive and offering a luxury experience, cruises come up as a favorite for seniors more often than not. Of course, you need to enjoy the sea and be okay with constantly being in motion. But taking a cruise and sitting at the pool with cocktails to reach your destination can provide a best-of-both-worlds kind of experience.

Road Trips

With the flexibility to set your own pace, stop at charming towns along the way, and enjoy the freedom of the open road, road trips offer endless opportunities for adventure and discovery.

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Safety & Things to Keep in Mind

• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before you plan your trip, it’s best to check in with your doctor. They can do a physical and just make sure you’re fit and fighting for a long plane ride or perhaps the hiking you want to do when you arrive. 

• Get Travel Insurance: This is always a recommendation for travelers. Regardless of your age, travel insurance is there in case things go wrong while you’re away from home. 

• Pack in Medications and Medical Supplies: You might not be able to find your necessary medication where you’re headed, so be prepared and pack in enough to last you until you’re home again. It’s also best to have a prescription script from your doctor for admin reasons. (See the CDC’s guide on traveling with medicine)

• Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet: Of course, you should try out all the fun food on offer. But don’t stray too far from your usual healthy diet, and make sure you’re drinking enough water to keep your body in its best shape. 

Read next: Healthy Eating On The Go.

• Pace Yourself: Take regular breaks, especially during long days of sightseeing or physical activities, and listen to your body’s cues. Don’t hesitate to modify your itinerary or take rest days as needed to avoid exhaustion and prevent injuries.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas or unfamiliar environments. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables openly. 

• Stay Connected With Family at Home: Keep your loved ones updated on where you are and your next stops. 

• Update Your Emergency Contacts: Have your emergency contacts easy to find on your phone so that if they are needed, emergency persons can get hold of your next of kin. 

• Stay Informed About News: Check online news for any natural disasters, protests, or other potential dangers for the destinations you’re in and those you plan on visiting next. 

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Places to Visit When You’re Over 60

There are so many fantastic destinations available for you to visit. But if you’re looking for a specific experience, here are some options. 

European Gems

An obvious place to start for many. Dive into the rich history, culture, and beauty of Europe. Explore the charming streets of Paris, delve into the art and architecture of Florence, or cruise along the scenic waterways of Amsterdam.

Read next: Top Rated European Tours for Seniors

Scenic Escapes

Prefer to be out in nature? Discover the natural wonders of destinations like New Zealand’s South Island, where rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests await. Or explore the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, with its dramatic waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and geothermal wonders.

Cultural Capitals

There’s no better time to discover cultures that differ from your own. Dive into the vibrant cultures and traditions of cities like Kyoto, Japan, where ancient temples, serene gardens, and traditional tea houses await. Then, head down the bustling streets of Istanbul, Turkey, where East meets West in a tapestry of history, art, and cuisine.

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Relaxing Retreats

Take some time for a well-deserved restful visit to a luxurious spa resort or tranquil beach destination. Unwind on the sandy shores of Maui, book spa treatments in Bali, or find your closest pamper opportunity and grab it with both hands.

Read next: Top Resorts for Seniors

Historic Havens

Find the ancient wonders of destinations like Petra in Jordan or Machu Picchu in Peru. Marvel at the ingenuity of past civilizations as you wander through ancient ruins and archaeological sites.

Culinary Journeys

Traveling for food is never a bad idea. If you’re looking to excite your taste buds, find delightful cuisine in magnificent Italy. Indulge in pasta dishes in Rome, fresh seafood along the Amalfi coast, and regional wines in Tuscany.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Treasures

Tick off hidden gems around the world and see places like the colorful villages of Cinque Terre in Italy, the mystical temples of Bhutan, or the remote islands of French Polynesia.

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Meeting New People Around the World

One of the best ways to see the world in your senior years is to meet other people in your age group and join in on exploring their hometowns with them. This is the heart and soul behind the Free Bird Club. 

The Freebird Club is a welcoming community for individuals aged 50 and over who love to travel and meet new people. It provides a platform for members to connect, share information, and even host or stay with each other in a trusted and verified environment. With a focus on empowerment and fostering meaningful connections, the club offers a supportive network for travelers seeking companionship, local insights, and hospitality. 

Whether hosting fellow members or being hosted, the Freebird Club encourages a spirit of generosity and camaraderie among mature adults who share a passion for exploration. Join the Freebird Club to embark on memorable journeys and build lasting friendships with like-minded travelers.

Join us now

Final Thoughts on Travel Over 60

Travel over 60, and even as you gracefully reach your 70s and beyond, is an opportunity for new adventures, memories, and friends. Whether you’re exploring a bustling city, hiking through scenic landscapes, or immersing yourself in a new culture, welcome the thrill of discovery and let each adventure improve your life in unexpected ways.

Prioritizing your well-being is essential when traveling in your golden years. Take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Listen to your body and take breaks whenever you need to. There is no rush when you’re discovering on your own terms. 

But also remember to ask questions, try the food, and immerse yourself in the myriad of new experiences that await you. Be open to forming new friendships and relationships along the way, and share your travel stories and experiences with others to inspire and enrich their lives.