What does travel mean when you get to 40? Travel isn’t just a week’s all-inclusive holiday any more, it’s about freedom, purpose and creating space for the next chapter. It could be a month exploring a new country or it could be something bigger, perhaps giving up a job or selling your home to fund long-term travel, extended sabbaticals or even a full lifestyle reset.
If you’re dreaming of swapping DIY weekend projects for train journeys and sunsets, we’ve put together a few practical considerations for you to think about before taking the leap.
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Choosing your next base – or no base at all
If you’re planning a long-term adventure then one of the biggest decisions is whether you want a permanent home as well. Some travellers like the idea of keeping a small UK base, perhaps a down-sized flat or a lock-and-leave style home. This can give some welcome stability and make returning between trips much easier. Others choose to go fully nomadic and rent short-term places around the world.
If you’re unsure, you could think about trying a ‘transition year’, where you spend a year travelling while either renting somewhere small at home or renting out your house if you’re a homeowner. It gives you the chance to see what kind of traveller you are without committing to a full life overhaul.
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Funding your travels by selling smart
If you decide to sell your property to fund your adventures, think strategically about the process. There are now more ways to sell than ever, and fees can vary widely. Some travellers choose traditional high-street estate agents for hands-on support, but others prefer to keep costs low to boost their travel budget.
This is where internet estate agents that specialise in finding a cash buyer can sometimes help. Their fees are usually lower because they don’t have those traditional, physical offices on the high street, which is great for you, as you can free up more money for the things you actually want to spend on.
It’s worth comparing both types of agents to see which approach suits your timeline, confidence level and local market. A quick conversation with a few options can help you understand what support you genuinely need.
Planning a travel lifestyle that actually works for you
Once the home-selling practicalities are out of the way, the exciting part begins – designing the kind of travel life you want! This is the fun bit, where you can let your imagination run wild. There’s no one-size-fits-all model, so don’t feel afraid to think outside the box here.
Think, too, about what you want from the experience. Do you want to learn a language, volunteer, take writing classes, or simply wander and decompress? Travelling in your forties and beyond often has a different energy to the backpacking of your twenties. Comfort matters more, and so does meaning.
Remember though, while planning is useful, do make sure to leave room for spontaneity. Many travellers find that what they thought they wanted shifts dramatically once they’re actually out there, living it, so keep an open mind and be prepared to have an amazing time!