THE ULTIMATE OVER 50’s TRAVEL WISH LIST 2026
Do you have a travel wish list for 2026 and beyond into your retirement years? I certainly do and I’m adding to it all the time!
Creating a travel wish list – or travel bucket list – is a fun and interesting way not only to prioritise your travel goals but to help realise your own personal goals and ambitions too.
Just like you – every person’s travel wish list will be unique – and your travel wish list will lend itself to your own personal preferences for cold, temperate, or tropical places, for adrenaline-pumping adventures or for stillness and tranquillity.
Are you fascinated by history and architecture natural wonders?
Do you prefer beach destinations or big city adventures?
Are you a foodie who wants to explore culinary hotspots around the world?
Do you enjoy cultural immersion and exploring heritage sites?
Do you love hiking and outdoor adventures?
There is one thing travel wish lists will always have in common and it is that the journey or experience will leave a lasting impression on those who embark on them. I like to think of my travel wish list as two entirely separate lists.
One that’s for travel destinations and one that’s for travel experiences.
Let’s find out what’s trending and where to travel in 2026!
TOP PLACES FOR YOUR TRAVEL WISH LIST 2026
1. Japan
2. South Korea
3. Maldives
4. Taiwan
5. Vietnam
6. Caribbean
7. Scotland
8. Europe
9. Canada
10. USA
TOP EXPERIENCES FOR YOUR TRAVEL WISH LIST 2026
3. Learn to Scuba Dive in The Caribbean
4. See Cherry Blossoms in South Korea
6. Street Art Tour of Georgetown Penang
7. Antiquities Tour of Cairo Egypt
8. Volunteering On Turtle Conservation
10. Drink From A 1200 Year Old Pot of Tea
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO CREATING YOUR OWN TRAVEL LISTS
Brainstorm Destinations: Start by brainstorming destinations that you’ve always wanted to visit. What about a Maldives holiday 2026? It might not be as expensive as you think. See my post on budget travel to Maldives!
Do Your Research: Once you have a list of potential destinations, research each one carefully to learn more. Consider in your travel planning such factors as attractions, activities, climate, culture, safety, travel requirements, budget, travel time, seasonality, etc. See my travel planning posts on The Best And Worst Times To Go To… popular travel destinations.
Consider Your Interests: Tailor your wish list to include destinations that align with your interests and your passions.
Set Your Priorities: Prioritize your list based on your preferences and priorities. See my post 10 Reasons To Travel in your 50’s and 60’s.
Include Specific Experiences: Consider specific experiences or activities that you want to have in each destination. Whether it’s swimming with dolphins, visiting ancient ruins, or attending a music festival, adding specific experiences to your wish list will make it more tangible and exciting. Did you know in August (12th) there’s to be a total solar eclipse Spain 2026 – the first total solar eclipse for mainland Europe since 1999!
Create a Visual Wishlist: Visual aids can help make your travel wish list more engaging and motivating. Create a vision board or digital collage featuring images of your dream destinations, activities, and experiences. You can also use platforms like Pinterest to create virtual travel boards.
Review and Update: Review your travel wish list regularly and update it as needed. As your interests and priorities change, you may discover new destinations or experiences to add to your list. Keep your list dynamic and flexible to accommodate changes over time.
Take Action: Once you have a travel wish list in place, start taking steps to turn your travel goals and travel dreams into reality. Set goals, create a savings plan, and start planning your trip. Why not plan ahead for Christmas 2026?
Remember that your travel wish list is meant to inspire and motivate you to explore the world, so don’t be afraid to dream big and pursue your passions!
Key Trends for 2026
Several consistent themes are emerge across reports on travel trends for 2026. There’s a shift away from just ‘big name’ tourist cities towards less-crowded and more authentic destinations.
Growing interest in nature, mountains, outdoor escapes (not just sun & sea) – e.g. mountain retreats, alpine regions and cooler temperature destinations.
A push for sustainable and responsible tourism in places that can handle increased visitation without overwhelming local communities.
A desire for culture and off-the-beaten-path destinations rather than simply the most visited cities.
TRAVEL WISH LIST RESOURCES
PHOTOS
Photos are wonderful for inspiring travel destinations and for travel planning.
I like to look for travel photos in travel magazines, on Instagram, and on Pinterest.
TRAVEL MAPS
Travel maps are invaluable for planning your itinerary.
BUCKET LIST PLANNER
I love to carry a travel planner for making notes and for journaling.
LINKS TO BUCKET LIST PLANNING APPS
Travel Apps on your phone will show you the way to go!
ACCOMODATION PLANNING
I use and recommend Booking Dotcom
I also use Expedia Travel to search for Hotels, Cheap Flights, and Car Hire.
I like to check Hotels.com for top deals on a last minute getaway.
PACKING
Backpack or Suitcase for Over 50’s Travellers?
How To Pack Less and Travel Light!
ACTIVITIES PLANNING
Find fabulous activities and the best ticket prices with KLOOK
I check Get Your Guide to book great things to do at destination.
See My Over 50’s Guide To Adventure Travel
See my Over 50’s Guide To A Midlife Gap Year
THE BACKPACKING HOUSEWIFE RECOMMENDS TRAVEL INSURANCE
Get a no obligation quote – World Nomads
Do YOU have a Travel Wish List?
Do you love or loathe the term ‘bucket list?’
Get in touch or leave a comment!
