Ask people what they most want to do when they’ve retired, and travel will feature pretty high on the list. However, just because you now have the time to travel doesn’t always mean you have the money. Here are some ways you can fit in some travel and not break the bank:
-
Use your flexibility
Now you no longer have the constraints of the working week, one of the most powerful things in your arsenal is your flexibility. Prices are always higher during peak times but drop significantly during off-peak times. If you can be flexible about when you travel, you can stretch your budget much further.
-
Grab those discounts
There are certain benefits to being a senior citizen, and one of the best is the wide range of discounts available on travel. Remember to find out what is available and make the most of travel discounts. Fancy a day out by the sea? Don’t forget to find out about Local things to do in Bude.
-
House Swap
Fancy getting free or hugely reduced accommodation when you travel? People don’t want to couch surf or stay in a hostel in retirement, so why not consider house-swapping? Many sites offer a safe process; some even aim solely at seniors. You need to pay a fee to join these sites, but compared to the money you could save, they are worth it. Want a sea view? Look at Local things to do in Bude
-
Downsize
While there are cheaper ways to travel, it still costs money, and if you have your heart set on seeing the world but don’t have the funds, you’ll need another option. If you live in a home, you’re rattling around; you could be sitting on a gold mine. Downsizing is a way of releasing any equity trapped in your current property. This can be a sizable figure if you have no mortgage and own the property. Even if you still have a mortgage, you can sell up, move to a smaller property and make a profit. The extra money you can use for your travels.
-
Make travel a priority
Please don’t put it off or come up with reasons why it wouldn’t be sensible. Yes, there will always be other things you should be spending money on, such as property maintenance or needing a new car, but if you don’t prioritise, you’ll keep finding reasons never to go travelling. Make a bucket list of all the places you want to see and experiences you want to have to give you greater focus and motivation for carrying through with your dream.
