Turning sixty often comes with a mixture of emotions. For some, it’s a quiet milestone, for others, a moment of real reflection. But for many, it can be the start of a new chapter. And for those with the time, means, and inclination, travel can be one of the most rewarding ways to embrace this next stage in life. 

There is something about travel that reinvigorates the spirit. It’s not just about seeing new places, though that has its own rewards, but about changing perspective. When we remove ourselves from the routines and responsibilities that define our day-to-day lives, we open the door to unexpected encounters, moments of joy, and new ideas. And crucially, we prove to ourselves that we’re not done growing. 

Of course, travel in our sixties and beyond isn’t quite the same as it might have been in our twenties. That isn’t to say it’s less exciting or meaningful, but it does call for a slightly different approach. Long-haul backpacking with a rucksack and a vague plan might appeal to some, but for many, comfort, safety and thoughtfulness now rank more highly than spontaneity and discomfort. That doesn’t mean we lose our sense of adventure. It just takes a new shape. 

Health and fitness play their part, of course. Most people of our generation are fit enough for a range of travel styles, from city breaks and guided tours to walking holidays and independent travel. The key is to know your limits and plan accordingly. If you’re managing a health condition, that shouldn’t stop you from seeing the world, but it does mean checking travel insurance carefully and thinking ahead about medication and access to care. 

Finances, too, are a consideration. Travel isn’t always cheap, and with the cost of living rising, it can feel indulgent to spend on flights and hotels. But the truth is, many of us have earned this time. If retirement or semi-retirement has given you back some freedom, it’s not unreasonable to spend a portion of your resources on enriching experiences. That said, there are many ways to travel affordably. Off-season bookings, house-sitting, and even volunteering opportunities abroad can all reduce costs while adding depth to your trip. 

Another thing we must talk about, because it matters now more than ever, is the environmental cost of travel. The aviation industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions, and as much as we might feel that we’ve earned a bit of exploration, we can’t ignore the impact it has. That doesn’t mean we have to stop travelling entirely, but perhaps it means we travel with more care. Staying longer in one place, choosing trains over planes when possible, and supporting sustainable tourism are all ways to make our journeys a little lighter on the planet. 

It’s also worth acknowledging that travel as we age brings with it a particular kind of confidence. Many of us have spent years juggling work, family and responsibilities. To step away from that, even briefly, is not to abandon our roles, but to reconnect with the version of ourselves that is curious, open, and quietly daring. Whether it’s learning a few words of a new language, navigating unfamiliar streets, or sitting in a quiet cafe and people-watching, travel lets us expand who we are. 

And what of those who cannot, or choose not to, travel far? The spirit of travel isn’t about ticking off destinations on a map. It’s about approaching the world with curiosity. That could mean a weekend exploring a nearby town, a museum visit that opens your eyes to another culture, or even planning future trips with a sense of anticipation. The key is in how we see the world, not just where we go. 

Turning sixty can be the start of something extraordinary. If you’re fortunate enough to have the time and health to travel, take it. The world is still out there, and it hasn’t stopped being beautiful, surprising, or worth seeing. Go gently, go wisely, but go. And if you can’t go just yet, start planning. Because the journey often begins the moment we decide to take it. 

Travel, in the end, is not a retreat from life. It is a way to step more fully into it. 

Sources

Later Life Travel Trends Age UK
Insights into Mature Travel Silver Travel Advisor
Sustainable and Ethical Travel for Over 50s Responsible Travel
Travel in Later Life: Benefits and Barriers International Longevity Centre UK