Retirement Travel on the Rise
Australian seniors are reshaping retirement in 2025. Nearly 2 in 5 (39%) reported taking their last big holiday in the past year. This marks a strong rise from less than 1 in 5 (18%) in 2022. The Australian Seniors Grey Gap Year Report 2025 reveals travel is now central to retirement living. For many seniors, later life has evolved into a period of exploration and adventure.
Seniors Prioritise Travel Over Inheritance
The findings highlight a new approach to legacy planning. More than 2 in 5 (43%) seniors believe creating travel memories is more important than leaving a financial inheritance. Another 2 in 5 (40%) value both equally. Almost 1 in 3 (27%) would consider gifting a family trip instead. The report shows more than 2 in 3 (69%) feel no guilt about spending on travel instead of inheritance. Support from families remains strong, with 67% saying their families back their decisions to prioritise travel.
Top Destinations in 2025
Europe continues to be the top choice for retirement travel. About 22% plan Europe as their next destination, with 31% naming it their dream trip. Interstate travel ranks second, with 21% eyeing an interstate trip next, and 11% counting it as their dream trip. The Pacific Islands are also popular, chosen by 13% for their next trip and 11% as dream destinations. Plans for domestic holidays inside Australia have dropped to 32% from 48% in 2022. This shows a clear shift in favour of overseas travel opportunities.
Senior’s Fav Travel Destination
Popular Travel Styles
Cruises remain strong, climbing from 22% in 2022 up to 29% in 2025. Beach escapes also appeal to 29% of seniors. A third of seniors (33%) have embraced slow travel, extending their visits to experience places more deeply. One in 10 (10%) have tried JOMO, or the joy of missing out trips, to relax quietly. Solo travel continues to grow. About 45% are open to or have already travelled alone. Seniors travel alone mostly to see family or enjoy solitude.
Financial Priorities in Travel
Cost pressures shape travel decisions. Nearly 9 in 10 (90%) seniors agree holidays are getting more expensive. Almost 3 in 4 (71%) have adjusted plans to cope with rising costs. About 20% take fewer trips to save, while 18% choose cheaper destinations. Despite these changes, 64% feel comfortable using retirement savings for travel. Savings remain the key source of funding, used by 68%. Most seniors cut back on daily expenses to fund travel, with 54% trimming impulse buys and 53% limiting dining out. Only 19% say they would delay retirement to afford more travel.
Travel Motivations
The report notes strong personal motivations behind senior travel. About 60% travel to relax, 45% spend holidays with family, and 44% aim to learn more about the world. The findings indicate seniors see travel as part of overall wellbeing, not a luxury.
Barriers and Safety Concerns
Barriers to travel remain. About 62% cite financial limits, 35% mention health concerns, and another 35% highlight responsibilities at home. Safety concerns rank high in planning. About 75% of seniors avoid certain regions due to terrorism, conflicts, or crime. About 58% avoid the Middle East, 51% avoid Eastern Europe, and 45% avoid Central America. Nearly half, or 44%, even avoid the USA due to visa policies. Climate concerns influence 45%, safety weighs on 50%, and cost pressures remain the highest at 56%.
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Insurance and Peace of Mind
Insurance plays a central role in senior travel. Almost 3 in 4 (72%) buy travel insurance for overseas trips, with 48% choosing comprehensive cover. They seek peace of mind, health protection, and accident cover. Domestic cover remains low, with 56% not taking insurance for local trips. International trips see a rising number skip cover, up to 20% in 2025 compared with 12% in 2022.
Multigenerational and Legacy Travel
The Grey Gap Year Report highlights the rise of multigenerational experiences. About 2 in 5 (40%) seniors travel with different age groups in one family trip. About 61% seek to spend quality time, while 41% want shared memories across generations. This demonstrates a major lifestyle shift, where legacy is defined through shared experiences. The findings reflect a broad cultural acceptance of seniors spending retirement funds on travel while involving families in the process.
Conclusion
The Grey Gap Year Report 2025 shows seniors are taking control of retirement by travelling widely. They balance financial realities with long-term aspirations for memories and connection. The trend marks a new retirement model for Australians. Seniors are choosing adventure, prioritising shared moments, and proving travel remains central to a fulfilling life.
