4 Vacations You Really Should Remove From Your Retirement Bucket List

Retirement is often when many Americans finally get to take the bucket list vacations they’ve saved and waited years for. Since many of these trips are abroad, they can often require a significant amount of money or take a lot of time to plan. What looks like a great trip in social media photos might actually be a lot more hassle than it’s worth.

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Travel experts recommended four vacations you should remove from your retirement bucket list.

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Southern Europe

If it seems odd to suggest that one of the most popular parts of the world to visit, Southern Europe, should come off your bucket list, Jackie Mondelli, chief marketing officer at Squaremouth Inc, a travel insurance site, explained why. She suggested setting aside Italy, Spain, Greece and Portugal for the following reasons:

• Unprecedented weather without infrastructure: Many of these regions lack the infrastructure to manage prolonged heatwaves, including consistent access to air conditioning.
• Physical considerations: Heat-related illnesses, transportation disruptions and weather-related cancellations will continue to be more common as a result.
• Crowds: Overcrowding has also plagued what were once scenic and serene destinations.

These challenges can impact any traveler but might have a greater effect on older individuals who may have pre-existing health or mobility challenges, she explained.

Explore More: 6 Affordable Travel Destinations Perfect for Retirees in 2025

Cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska

Cruises can seem like an excellent choice because they appear to be all-inclusive, however, according to Stewart Koesten, CFP, a semi-retired global financial planner who specializes in expats, they often include pricey add-ons.

“Stories from retirees and my own experiences suggest cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska can be regrettable,” he explained. While both destinations are lovely, he said there is a “constant drum beat to buy jewelry and other products from cruise ship-controlled shops.”

Too much tourism pressure can dilute the experience and cost you more than you want to spend.

Physically Demanding Vacations

If you’re planning to visit the Swiss Alps or hike a mountain, you might want to think twice, Koesten said. “As we age, declining health, mobility, reduced energy and balance issues can make this type of travel much less enjoyable,” he said.

It’s important to remember that the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) does not exist everywhere in the world, he said. “Cruise ships, tour buses, hotels and restaurants may not always accommodate accessibility needs. Places that require extensive walking, climbing stairs or even getting on and off buses will be quite difficult if not impossible for individuals with physical limitations.”

This includes everything from African safaris to jaunts through ancient ruins.

Switzerland and Other Overly Pricey Spots

Switzerland is a place on many a retiree’s bucket list and “is considered one of the most expensive vacation destinations,” according to Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago, a vacation rental company.

“If you decide to stay at a luxury resort and spend your time doing expensive activities, you’re going to spend thousands more than if you decide to stay at smaller rentals or hostels, spending more of your time hiking or doing free/inexpensive activities.”

Other Considerations

A few other general considerations can make your travel experience both more affordable and enjoyable, Koesten suggested:

• The dollar is weak: With a weak dollar in relation to other countries’ currencies, travel is generally becoming more expensive and “less retirement friendly,” Koesten said.
• Stay in the U.S.: There are plenty of “spectacular experiences,” to be had right here in the U.S. “I always recommend touring this country before going abroad, especially when cost is a concern.”
• Off-season travel: Travel during the off season, which shouldn’t be a problem for a retired person.
• Airline flexibility: Don’t be married to a particular airline. Seek out the most direct means of travel at the most reasonable rate. Use travel points on airlines, hotels and credit cards.
• Eat local: Choose local food and beverage. Unless you’re a foodie, avoid the fancy restaurants like Maxim’s in Paris and the fancy tab that goes along with it.
• Stay smaller: Skip the five-star hotel. Airbnb and VRBO, along with other sites, provide photos of properties and guest ratings. Many now include a local guide or experience with the price of your stay.

Any “dream trip” can be a financial drain or poor value if you can’t afford it, Koesten pointed out. Financial planning as a retiree should evaluate travel expenses, physical needs, time and energy.

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