How to Travel in Retirement When You’re on a Budget

Retirement is a time to relax, explore, and enjoy life — but with fixed income and rising costs, especially in travel, it can be a challenge. Thankfully, with some strategic planning, you can still enjoy amazing trips. Here’s how to travel affordably in retirement without sacrificing adventure.

1. Choose Budget-Friendly Lodging

While high-end resorts offer luxuries, they can strain a budget. Instead, explore affordable lodging options like motels, budget-friendly Airbnbs, or even hostels. Many hostels abroad are open to all ages and provide a social, affordable experience. This way, you’ll have more funds to enjoy your destination.

2. Use a Rewards Credit Card

Everyday expenses like groceries and insurance add up, especially in retirement. When you pay with a travel rewards credit card, you can earn points, cash back, or airline miles to offset future travel costs. Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra costs when traveling internationally.

3. Travel During Off-Peak Times

One perk of retirement is flexible timing. Avoid peak seasons (summer and holiday months) to save on flights and lodging. Additionally, flying on Thursdays can save you up to 16% compared to Sundays. Booking flights a month in advance for domestic travel and 60 days out for international travel is another great way to save.

4. Save on Meals While Traveling

Dining out every day can add up quickly. Instead, aim to eat out just once a day. You can buy fresh produce and snacks from local grocery stores or farmers markets and prepare some meals at your accommodation. This approach keeps your food costs low while giving you a taste of the local culture.

5. Use Membership Discounts

Memberships like AAA and AARP offer valuable discounts for travelers. AAA members enjoy fuel rewards, dining discounts and rental car savings, while AARP provides discounted flights, hotels, cruises, and more. These benefits can significantly lower the cost of your retirement adventures.

6. Pack Light, Travel Close to Home

Checked baggage fees can be steep, so consider sticking to a carry-on. A smaller bag is also easier to manage on public transportation, saving you on taxis or rentals. Explore closer destinations within the U.S. to discover new museums, restaurants, and natural landmarks without the cost of international flights.

7. Consider Working or Volunteering Abroad

Stay active and fund your travels by taking a seasonal job in tourism, like working on a cruise ship, or finding remote work in writing, consulting, or teaching. Volunteering with organizations around the world can also reduce travel costs while giving you a fulfilling travel experience.