When you think of retirement, what do you picture? Leisurely afternoons in exotic cities? Long walks on white-sand beaches? Wine tastings in Tuscany? For many, travel is the ultimate retirement dream. But here's a little secret: waiting until you retire to see the world might be a mistake.
Traveling while you’re young and healthy isn't just a luxury — it's an investment in your life. And it’s one you don’t want to put off until “someday.”

Your Body (and Energy) Won't Wait
Travel often demands more than we expect — long days of walking, adjusting to time zones, climbing hills to see that unforgettable view, even just navigating a busy airport with ease. While you may imagine yourself at 65+ trekking through the Amazon or biking through Paris, the reality is that travel gets physically harder as we age. By traveling earlier, you can actually do more and experience more — not just see it from a tour bus window.
Experiences Matter More Than Things
In your younger years, it's easy to get caught in the cycle of working, saving, and thinking, “I'll travel when I have more time.” But life’s richest rewards aren’t found in the things you own — they’re found in the memories you make. That sunrise over the Sahara. That spontaneous street food tour in Bangkok. That night you laughed under the stars in Greece. These are the moments you’ll carry with you for life — and they only happen when you prioritize experiences now, not “later.”
You’re Never "Too Busy" — You're Just Prioritizing Other Things
Work. Kids. Responsibilities. It’s easy to believe you have to wait for a “perfect time” to travel. Spoiler: there’s never a perfect time. There will always be reasons to delay — but if you make travel a priority, you find ways to weave it into your life now. Even short trips, weekend getaways, or one big journey a year can add up to a lifetime of stories and memories.
The World Is Changing Fast
Political climates shift. Natural wonders disappear. Hidden gems become tourist traps.
The truth is, the world is constantly evolving. The version of Venice, Bali, or Patagonia you dream of visiting might look very different 20 or 30 years from now.
Traveling sooner lets you experience places authentically — before they change or even vanish.
Financially, It Makes Sense
You might think it's smarter to wait until you’re retired and have “more money.”
But travel doesn't have to be expensive — especially if you start when you're younger and are willing to be a little flexible. Backpacking Europe, volunteering abroad, finding cheap flights, and budget hotels: all easier to embrace now. Plus, spreading out travel over your life (instead of cramming it all into retirement) can be much easier on your wallet over time.
Bottom line:
Don't wait for "one day." Start exploring now — while you're full of energy, curiosity, and wide-eyed wonder. Your future self will thank you for the memories you made today.
The world is waiting. Are you ready?
✨ Ready to start your journey?
You have two amazing options:
Join one of our small group trips for women with Chicas Abroad — perfect if you love the idea of traveling with a fun, supportive group of adventurous women. Check out all of our upcoming adventures at www.chicasabroad.com.
Or, create a completely custom itinerary through Traveler Abroad, where I design a trip just for you (and your travel companions), based on your dreams, budget, and style. Sign up for a complimentary 30-minute chat with me to talk about your travel dreams at www.travelerabroad.com.
🌎 Whether you want to explore the world with a group or on your own terms, I’m here to help you make it happen! Let’s go! I’m ready, are you?