Jul 5, 2026
When you think about retirement, are you also dreaming about checking off bucket-list destinations? For many Americans, that dream is changing.
Despite persistent inflation, higher travel prices and growing economic uncertainty, retirees are still packing their bags, but they’re becoming more strategic about where they go, how often they travel and how much they’re willing to spend.
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A new survey from luggage shipping company Luggage Forward found that nearly two-thirds (64%) of retirees aren’t cutting back on travel. Instead, many are opting for more local destinations, road trips and all-inclusive vacations over expensive international adventures as they look to stretch their retirement dollars.
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Retirees are still hitting the road
The survey of more than 1,000 Americans aged 55 and older found that retirement is giving many people exactly what they hoped for after decades of working: more time to travel.
According to the findings, an overwhelming 93% of respondents said they retired on or ahead of schedule. Nearly half (47%) expect to take one or two trips each year, while another 30% plan to travel three to five times annually.
Interestingly, 67% say they’re traveling just as much, or even more, than they were five years ago. What accounts for that increase? Nearly three-quarters (73%) cited having more available time, while 45% said they also have more money to spend on travel.
But there’s also a sense of urgency driving many retirees. Half of respondents said the realization that time is limited motivates them to travel now, while 16% pointed to declining health as a reason not to postpone long-awaited vacations.
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But they’re sticking closer to home
However, the costs are still a concern. Nearly four in 10 retirees (39%) said rising travel expenses have caused them to shelve or delay trips, while 29% cited concerns about airline safety and broader travel uncertainty.
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International travel in particular seems to be losing some of its appeal in the near term. Nearly seven in 10 retirees said they aren’t considering overseas travel within the next year.
Rather than abandoning vacations altogether, many are choosing to simply change their plans. So what’s on the agenda? Road trips have become the most popular alternative, while cruises and all-inclusive resorts also ranked among the most attractive options for retirees looking for greater value and predictability.
Domestic travel is also gaining ground. Honolulu topped retirees’ wish lists, followed by Charleston and New Orleans. All three of these destinations boast accessible activities for retirees, with plenty of sightseeing opportunities, along with local cultures and cuisines to be explored.
How to keep travel affordable without giving it up
For retirees who want to travel, a few smart strategies can help stretch every vacation dollar:
Travel during shoulder season. Daily Passport recommends booking trips in the weeks between peak and off-peak travel periods can often mean lower airfare and hotel rates, along with fewer crowds.
Stay closer to home. Domestic destinations, road trips and regional getaways can cut down your transportation costs. Driving instead of flying avoids airfare, but also those additional travel costs like baggage fees and rental car expenses.
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Consider cruises or all-inclusive resorts. These options can make budgeting easier by bundling accommodations, meals and entertainment into one upfront price, helping you avoid surprise expenses.
Take advantage of senior discounts. Look into discounts for older adults with airlines, hotels, museums, attractions and national parks. Organizations such as AARP also provide members with savings on hotels, rental cars and vacation packages.
Budget for travel throughout the year. Consider putting aside money each month in a vacation fund, it can help you avoid relying on credit cards, and reduce the risk of carrying expensive debt long after the trip is over.
Travel may be getting pricier, but it doesn’t mean your retirement dreams have to disappear. With some flexibility and careful planning, retirement adventures don’t have to come at the expense of long-term financial security.
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Freelance writer with an economic development and consulting background.
