AARP Reveals How Boomers Will Travel in 2015

Image: PHOTO: A travel agent specializing in seniors can provide plenty of fun and adventure. (photo courtesy of Thinkstock)
Image: PHOTO: A travel agent specializing in seniors can provide plenty of fun and adventure. (photo courtesy of Thinkstock)
Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 11:00 AM ET, Thu January 8, 2015

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock

Forty-eight percent of Americans age 50 and up plan to travel more in 2015 than they did in 2014, according to a recent travel trends survey conducted by AARP.

What's more, baby boomer travelers plans to take four to five trips on average in 2015.

"We are excited to see that compared to 2014, people 50+ plan to take more trips in 2015 despite the current political and health concerns abroad," said Stephanie Miles, Vice President, Member Value, AARP. "We are pleased that boomers remain enthusiastic about travel and are planning for more multigenerational travel next year."

"We also found that for the 50+ packing up doesn't mean totally unplugging, with 46 percent admitting they will probably need to stay connected to work while on vacation," Miles added.

The popularity of travel among older Americans is undeniable as AARP notes that those 50+ spend roughly $120 billion every year on leisure travel.

But AARP's survey doesn't stop there.

The study also reveals 50+ travelers' aspirations regarding domestic versus international travel, with 97 percent of those surveyed planning to take at least one domestic trip this year compared to only 45 percent who are planning at least one international journey.

As for what company these travelers will keep on multigenerational trips, 56 percent of respondents plan to take their spouse or partner, while 15 percent plan to have their children accompany them.

Only one-in-six (17 percent) plan to travel alone.

Nearly half (45 percent) say their main reason for multigenerational travel in 2015 is to see and spend time with family and friends, while more than one-third (38 percent) say their No. 1 goal is fun and relaxation.

If there's anything keeping baby boomers from traveling in 2015, it's most likely cost. According to the AARP survey, 51 percent cited cost as the top barrier. Meanwhile, health concerns are the top roadblock for those age 70 and up.

Interestingly, those travelers ages 50 through 59 cite a lack of time as the biggest barrier.

Nonetheless, 17 percent of those surveyed admitted that "nothing can stop me from traveling" in 2015.


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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