For retirement-age travelers, staying within a budget is often a top priority when making choices about where to go and what to do. Fortunately, seniors can choose from a wide variety of inexpensive vacation possibilities, depending on their interests and the time they have available. These possibilities include both group and individual travel opportunities.
One of the reasons so many retirees like the idea of cruises is that their expenses are pretty much determined before they leave for their trip; little or no extra money is necessary once you're on your way. Three tips to keep in mind to turn the cruise idea into a budget vacation: purchase a vacation package that includes the airfare; look for last-minute deals---cruise ship companies do not want to set out half-full; and investigate group rates, which allow you to travel with friends and save even more.
Exploritas, formerly named Elderhostel, provides a variety of vacation adventures combined with learning opportunities for seniors. As of February, 2010, their website (see Resources below) offered more than a dozen vacations at under $600, including such choices as "Georgia Lighthouses: History and Ecology of Three Georgia Barrier Islands" and "Exploring Digital Photography and the Unique Beauty of Louisiana."
Whether working at an archaeological dig site in Peru or helping to teach child care skills in Sri Lanka, the opportunities for senior citizens to volunteer can be inexpensive and rewarding. For an overview of some possibilities, check out the Resources section below. In addition, seniors can check with local organizations for any volunteer trips they have planned and travel as part of that group.
Seniors might consider signing up with one of the many home exchange organizations that match people up with a homeowner in another city or country, so that they can enjoy their vacation in free accommodations. Not only is there the advantage of a more comfortable atmosphere than a hotel (with no expense), it is also a big plus being part of a neighborhood, shopping in local markets and cooking one's own meals to save even more.
Boarding an Amtrak train can be an inexpensive proposition for seniors; not only are travelers over the age of 62 always given a 15-percent discount, certain other special offers can sometimes be combined with the senior discount. Looking for advertised specials can really pay off, as the relaxing train trip itself can serve as integral part of the vacation. Refreshments and light meals are available, but packing picnic food can reduce costs even further.
