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There are plenty of perks to travelling as you get older, from the freedom to go when and wherever you like, to having more disposable income to see the world in style and knowing exactly what you want from a holiday.
Now you don’t have to please the whole family when it comes to picking a destination, and the kids are old enough to take care of themselves, the world really is your oyster. So why not tick off all those destinations you once dreamed of?
Should I travel?
Naturally, some people are tentative about going abroad when they’re older. From health worries to wanting to be careful with money and even a fear of the unknown, many obstacles to travelling can be overcome with a bit of preparation.
But why does travel get better with age?
- Life is for living. If you’re fit and well, make the most of it. There’s nothing to stop you seeing more of the world. With many holidays for over 70s designed for a more relaxed pace, there’s the perfect trip for you out there.
- You're free from commitments. Without the restrictions of only being able to take 2 weeks off work or having to find something that suits the whole family, booking a trip in your later years is a great opportunity. With no commitments, you can choose your own pace and stay as long as you like.
- You can escape the everyday. Retirement is liberating and rewarding but you can also easily fall into a rut of doing the same things. Senior holidays help you meet like-minded people, get out of your comfort zone, and make some fantastic memories.
Health problems
Long flights, buses and train rides can be off-putting at any age. But research shows that travelling is actually good for you.
- It promotes strong mental health
- It boosts your immune system
- It’s good for your heart
- It boosts creativity
- It increases life expectancy
Familiarity often makes us feel safer at home but, with the right amount of planning, travelling can be rewarding and fulfilling instead of nerve-wracking.
Less financial stresses
Mortgage payments and climbing the career ladder may no longer hold you back. With less financial ties, there’s no better time to invest your hard-earned cash in new experiences. There are also discounts available for senior citizens and elderly people on holiday, which means going to visit world-famous attractions and public transport is considerably cheaper.
Travelling opens your mind
Familiarity often makes us feel safer at home but, with the right amount of planning, travelling can be rewarding and fulfilling instead of nerve-wracking.
From learning about new cultures and experiencing new foods to meeting different kinds of people, travelling is as much about taking yourself out of your comfort zone as it is about exploring the world.
Travel insurance for older people
Finding travel insurance for older people and senior citizens can sometimes seem challenging but it’s actually straightforward.
Many insurers cover travellers of all ages, even if you have pre-existing medical conditions. Speaking to an insurer directly is always the best way to find out what they’ll offer you and what quote you can expect.
Multi, single or annual insurance policy?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, so research which option works best for you. There are three basic types of travel insurance:
- Single. Some single trip policies, including LV='s, are suitable for a trip of up to one year (age restrictions apply).
- Annual. A yearly policy is beneficial for those who like to go on several holidays a year. The advantages of taking out an annual policy means you only have pay one amount and you’re fully covered.
- Gap year. Gap year insurance covers you for at least a year and sometimes up to 18 months depending on the type of policy you have.
There are so many positives to travelling in your later years, take a look at our over 65s travel insurance guide and different cover levels to start planning your trip today!
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