No age limit on adventure: How over-65s are redefining travel and living their bucket list dreams

At Co-op Insurance, we believe there should be no age limit on adventure and have proven it with our latest research. Far from slowing down, many over 65s are embracing their retirement years as a chance to explore the world, try new things, and tick off long-awaited bucket list experiences.

Retirement can be the perfect time to finally take your dream trip, whether it’s hiking through the Dolomites or snowmobiling in Lapland. In fact, our research shows that almost one in ten (9%) people aged 65 and over in the UK have enjoyed a holiday involving hazardous activities or winter sports since turning 60. The appetite for adventure does not stop there with nearly a fifth (18%) saying they’d like to take part in such holidays in the future.

Adventure tops the retirement travel list

When it comes to holiday choices, today’s retirees are swapping sun loungers for hiking boots. The most popular adventure holiday activities among over-65s include:

1. Hiking
2. Scuba diving
3. Mountain trekking
4. Skiing or snowboarding
5. Horse riding
6. Sailing
7. Surfing
8. Mountain biking
9. Rock climbing
10. Swimming with sharks

Some adventurous travellers even reported running marathons abroad and exploring Antarctica.

Bucket list dreams come true

Retirement is also inspiring dream destinations and once in a lifetime experiences. Almost a third (29%) want to visit the Great Barrier Reef, while others have their sights set on the Grand Canyon, Machu Picchu and Niagara Falls.

Popular bucket list experiences include watching the Northern Lights in Iceland, cruising the Norwegian Fjords, driving Route 66 or taking a hot air balloon ride over Morocco. It’s no wonder that over two-thirds (67%) of retirees say they regret not travelling more in their younger years and are now making up for lost time.

Getting the right cover for every adventure

At Co-op Travel Insurance, we’re proud to support travellers of all ages. Because adventure doesn’t stop at 65, it’s just getting started. Some adventures need extra cover, such as winter sports, so make sure you check your policy so you can enjoy the adrenaline worry-free.