10 Reasons to Make Weekend Travel a Regular Part of Your Life Before Retirement

For many of us in the “nearly retired” phase of life, the dream of extended vacations and months-long adventures is on hold while we’re working full-time. But that doesn’t mean we have to wait to prioritize travel. Weekend getaways are the perfect way to explore, recharge, and make the most of this stage of life without using up all your PTO. Here’s why you should make weekend travel a regular habit while you’re still working.

1. Make the Most of Your Health

You’re still active enough to hike mountains, explore cities on foot, and chase after that one last connecting flight. Traveling now lets you take full advantage of your mobility, energy, and stamina, making experiences like long walks through historic districts, kayaking in scenic waterways, or climbing that lighthouse staircase all the more enjoyable.

2. Break Free from the Routine

Workweeks can feel repetitive—emails, meetings, and errands on repeat. A weekend getaway offers a change of scenery, a mental reset, and a chance to step outside of your usual habits. Even a two-day trip can leave you feeling refreshed and more engaged when Monday rolls around.

3. Strengthen Your Relationships

Whether it’s a romantic weekend with your spouse or a getaway with friends, travel creates shared experiences that deepen connections. Without the distractions of home, you’ll have more time for conversation, laughter, and making memories together.

4. Experience More Without Taking Time Off

Many people put off travel until retirement, assuming they’ll have unlimited time then. But why wait? With careful planning, you can explore new places without dipping into vacation days—whether it’s a road trip to a nearby town, a city break, or a relaxing stay in the countryside.

5. Discover Hidden Gems Close to Home

You don’t have to go far to find adventure. Chances are, there are incredible destinations within a few hours of where you live—charming small towns, scenic trails, vibrant arts districts, and coastal retreats just waiting to be explored. Weekend travel helps you uncover the best of your own region.

6. Reduce Stress Without the Hassle of Long Trips

Travel doesn’t have to mean exhausting itineraries and complicated logistics. A well-planned weekend getaway offers the benefits of a vacation—new experiences, relaxation, and a break from responsibility—without the stress of long-haul flights, jet lag, or extensive planning.

7. Create a Travel Habit for Retirement

If you dream of traveling extensively in retirement, now is the time to start. Weekend trips help you build a rhythm of planning, packing, and exploring, so by the time you have more free time, you’ll already be an expert at making travel a regular part of your life.

8. Take Advantage of Your Financial Flexibility

While you’re still working, you have more disposable income to put toward travel. Investing in experiences now—rather than waiting until later—ensures you get to enjoy them while you’re in the best position to do so.

9. Keep Your Mind and Body Engaged

Travel keeps you learning, moving, and adapting. Whether it’s discovering local history, trying a new cuisine, or navigating a new city’s public transit, weekend travel keeps both your brain and body active, which can have long-term benefits for mental and physical health.

10. Prevent the “Someday” Regret

It’s easy to push travel off until the future, but life is unpredictable. Making the most of your weekends now ensures that you’re not looking back later wishing you had started sooner. The world is full of places to explore, and there’s no reason to wait.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a sabbatical or a month-long vacation to make travel a meaningful part of your life. Weekend trips are accessible, energizing, and completely doable—even with a busy work schedule. So start planning, pack a bag, and hit the road. Your next adventure is just a weekend away.