Travel is one of the most common features on any bucket list, and for good reason. New places broaden our horizons, lift our spirits, and remind us how much world there is still left to explore. But for those of us entering our sixties and beyond, there’s often another question that comes with that dream: how can I afford it? 

The good news is that fulfilling travel goals doesn’t have to drain your savings. With a bit of planning, flexibility, and creativity, bucket list travel can be done on a budget, without sacrificing the richness of the experience. 

The first step is to revisit what travel means to you. It’s easy to be swept along by glossy brochures or the envy-inducing Instagram shots of others. But your ideal journey might look quite different. It might be a solo rail adventure through the Scottish Highlands or a long weekend exploring seaside towns you’ve never quite got round to visiting. It might even mean house-sitting abroad, giving you the experience of a place without the cost of accommodation. 

Timing is another important factor. Travelling off-season can lead to dramatic savings, not only on flights and accommodation but also on entry to attractions and the overall pace of your visit. Off-peak travel is often quieter too, which can make the whole experience more relaxing. 

Then there’s the question of where you stay. Traditional hotels are no longer the only option. From guesthouses and B&Bs to self-catering cottages and home swaps, there are now a host of alternatives that often offer more comfort and character at a better price. Websites like TrustedHousesitters or Workaway offer unique opportunities to travel on a budget by exchanging time, care, or companionship for lodging. 

Transport, too, can be reimagined. If flying is expensive or stressful, trains, coaches, or even ferries can offer more scenic and less costly ways to travel. Investing in a Senior Railcard, for example, can make domestic travel in the UK significantly more affordable. And if you’ve got time on your side, slower travel is often cheaper and more enjoyable. 

Budget travel also rewards the curious. By avoiding the most tourist-heavy destinations or exploring a country beyond its most famous cities, you not only cut costs but discover places that feel more authentic. Dining where the locals eat, visiting smaller museums or free exhibitions, walking instead of taking taxis, all of these are not only cheaper but often more enriching. 

And let’s not overlook the joy of planning. Researching destinations, learning a few phrases in the local language, reading about the culture or history before you go, all of these add to the experience without costing a penny. Planning can be a pleasure in itself, and the anticipation is half the fun. 

At TurningSixty, we believe travel is about connection, curiosity, and perspective, not about price tags or passport stamps. Whether you’re ticking off a long-held dream or discovering somewhere entirely unexpected, travel on a budget can be every bit as rewarding as the luxury alternative. 

So if you’re hesitating to start your bucket list because you’re worried it might break the bank, take heart. There’s a whole world out there, and plenty of it is still within reach. 

Sources  

Senior Railcard National Rail
Travel the world as a house sitter TrustedHousesitters
Work and travel opportunities Workaway