Making Travel Part of Retirement

Travel is often high on the list of things people look forward to when they retire. Whether it’s a long-awaited holiday, exploring Ireland, visiting family abroad or taking a few shorter breaks throughout the year, travel can bring a real sense of freedom and adventure.

However, it is worth being realistic about how often you can travel and what you are comfortable doing.

You might find that you prefer:

• Several shorter breaks rather than one expensive holiday
• Travelling outside peak seasons
• Staying closer to home
• Self-catering accommodation
• Organised holidays where everything is taken care of
• Cruises or coach tours
• Visiting friends and family
• Exploring places you have never considered before

Retirement gives you the opportunity to travel differently. You don’t necessarily have to do the same type of holidays you enjoyed while working.

Travel as We Get Older

Getting older shouldn’t stop you from travelling, but it is sensible to be aware that some aspects of travel may become more challenging. Long journeys, busy airports, carrying luggage, walking long distances or navigating unfamiliar places can be more tiring than they once were. Before booking a trip, think about what you will realistically be comfortable doing.

Consider:

• How much walking will be involved?
• Is the accommodation easily accessible?
• Are there lifts available?
• How far is the accommodation from restaurants and attractions?
• Will you need to carry luggage?
• How long are the journeys?
• Will you need regular breaks?
• Is public transport easy to use?
• What happens if you need assistance?

There is no reason to feel embarrassed about asking for help. Airports, airlines, hotels, cruise companies and tour operators often provide assistance for older travellers and people with mobility difficulties. Planning these things in advance can make the difference between a relaxing holiday and one that becomes unnecessarily stressful.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can become increasingly important as we get older, and policies can differ considerably.

Before travelling, make sure you understand what your policy covers, including cancellation, medical treatment, lost belongings and any activities you plan to take part in. If you have existing health considerations, check the policy requirements carefully and make sure you provide any information the insurer requires.

The cheapest policy isn’t necessarily the best option. Look at what is actually covered and whether it suits the type of travel you are planning.

Leisure Isn’t Just About Holidays

Travel may be something you have always dreamed about, but retirement can also be an opportunity to discover completely new interests.

Perhaps there is a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, a local group you’ve never had time for or a skill you’d like to learn.

You could consider:

• Joining a walking or exercise group
• Taking up photography
• Learning a language
• Gardening
• Art or crafts
• Music
• Volunteering
• Local history
• Adult education
• Theatre and concerts
• Day trips
• Sports and recreational activities
• Meeting friends for regular coffee or lunch

Having activities to look forward to can give structure to your week and help you maintain social connections.

Finding Your Own Balance

There is no right way to spend retirement. Some people will want to travel extensively. Others will be perfectly happy exploring their local area, spending time with family, enjoying their garden or taking up a new hobby.

The important thing is to think about what makes you happy, rather than what you think retirement is supposed to look like. You may also find that your priorities change over time. What seemed important at 60 may be different at 70 or 80. That’s perfectly normal. Retirement is your opportunity to create a lifestyle that works for you — one that balances enjoyment, affordability, health, independence and the things that matter most.

Enjoy the Journey

Travel and leisure can add enormously to retirement, whether that means a trip abroad, a weekend away, a day exploring somewhere new or simply meeting friends for coffee. You don’t need to spend a fortune or have an ambitious travel schedule.

Plan what you can, budget realistically, consider what you are comfortable doing, and then enjoy the journey.