A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Traveling After Kids

Introduction: Your Next Great Adventure Starts Now

I remember the moment my house went quiet. The kids had packed up, moved on to their next adventure, and suddenly, the life I had built around their schedules, their needs, and their dreams had shifted. At first, it felt strange—almost unsettling. But then, I realized something powerful: this is my time now. Time to put empty nest travel at the top of the list!

If you’re standing at the doorstep of this new phase, let me tell you—traveling as an empty nester is one of the most exciting, liberating experiences you will ever have. No more waiting for school breaks, no more planning vacations around soccer tournaments or college schedules. Now, you can pick up and go whenever you want, to wherever you want, for as long as you want.

I’ve been there, and I can tell you firsthand: The world looks different when you travel with the freedom that comes with this stage of life. You can slow down and savor each experience. Maybe even splurge on that once-in-a-lifetime trip or take a spontaneous weekend getaway just because you feel like it. Or, you can finally visit the places you’ve always dreamed about—not because they’re kid-friendly, but because they set your soul on fire.

This guide is for you—the empty nest traveler who is just getting started on this new adventure. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape, a bucket list trip, or a little bit of both, I’ll help you navigate everything from choosing the right destinations to traveling smart and stress-free.

This isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about rediscovering you. And trust me, the best is yet to come.

Deciding on Your Empty Nest Travel Style: What Kind of Explorer Are You?

So the kids have moved out, the house is quieter, and you and your spouse are looking at each other like, What now? The good news? This is your time. No more school schedules, soccer practice drop-offs, or parent-teacher meetings. You’re free to travel however, whenever, and wherever you want. But first, you gotta figure out what kind of trip fits your new lifestyle.

Relaxation vs. Adventure: What’s Your Vibe?

Think about the kind of trip that excites you. Do you want to:

  • Kick back and relax? Picture yourself lounging on a beach in the Florida Keys with a drink in hand, or unwinding at a luxury spa in Sedona, Arizona. If slow mornings, scenic views, and pampering sound good, a laid-back getaway might be your style.
  • Go on an adventure? Maybe you’re itching to try something new—hiking through Zion National Park, taking a cooking class in Italy, or even zip-lining in Costa Rica. If you want excitement, challenge, or just something totally different, then an adventure trip is calling your name.
  • Mix of both? Why not? Spend part of the trip relaxing at a resort, then throw in some hiking, snorkeling, or exploring to keep things interesting.

Solo Empty Nest Travel, Couples Trips, or Group Getaways?

empty nest travel

Another big question—who’s coming with you?

  • Just you and your spouse? Perfect for reconnecting, especially after years of family vacations that revolved around the kids. A couples’ retreat in Napa Valley, a romantic train ride through the Swiss Alps, or a boutique hotel in Charleston could be just what you need.
  • Flying solo? Some empty nesters love the freedom of solo travel. It’s a chance to do exactly what you want without compromising. Whether it’s a peaceful retreat or a backpacking trip across Europe, solo travel is great for self-discovery and new experiences.
  • Group travel? Maybe you want to explore with old friends or join a guided tour. Group trips can be a great way to see new places without stressing over planning every detail. Think: wine tours in Tuscany, a guided national park trek, or even a cruise with fellow empty nesters.

Best Empty Nest Travel Destinations for Every Season

Timing matters. Traveling at the right time can mean fewer crowds, better weather, and sometimes even lower prices. Here are some ideas based on the season:

  • Spring: Cherry blossoms in Japan, hiking in the Smoky Mountains, or a coastal drive in California.
  • Summer: A scenic road trip through the Canadian Rockies, visiting European cities before peak season hits, or exploring botanical gardens like the one in Atlanta.
  • Fall: Leaf-peeping road trips in New England, wine tasting in Oregon, or a spooky getaway to Salem, Massachusetts.
  • Winter: Warm-weather escapes like the Caribbean, Arizona’s hot springs, or a cozy cabin in the mountains with snow-covered views.

Choosing your travel style is the first step toward making this empty nest phase exciting, fun, and full of new experiences. So, what’s next? Planning the perfect trip. Let’s dive in.

Planning Your First Trip: Where to Start?

Now that you’ve got a feel for the kind of trip you want, it’s time to figure out where you’re going and how to make it happen. The key? Start simple.

Weekend Road Trips: The Perfect First Step

If you’re easing back into travel after years of kid-focused vacations, a short weekend getaway is a great way to test the waters. Road trips are low-stress, budget-friendly, and let you explore at your own pace.

Here are a few easy and fun weekend trip ideas:

  • Wine country escape – Napa Valley, California or Willamette Valley, Oregon for winery tours and scenic vineyard stays.
  • Historic charm – Savannah, Georgia or Charleston, South Carolina for cobblestone streets, charming inns, and amazing food.
  • Mountain retreat – Great Smoky Mountains or the Blue Ridge Parkway for hiking, cozy cabins, and breathtaking views.
  • Beach break – The Florida Keys or Outer Banks, North Carolina for a relaxed coastal vibe.

If you’re feeling unsure about jumping into full-on travel, a short trip like this is a great way to get comfortable and figure out what you like.

Dream Destinations & Bucket List Empty Nest Travel

Once you’ve got a couple of smaller trips under your belt, it’s time to think big. What’s been on your travel wish list for years but always seemed impossible with kids at home? Now’s your chance.

  • European escapes – Paris, Rome, or Santorini for history, culture, and incredible food.
  • Nature adventures – An African safari, hiking Machu Picchu, or seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.
  • Luxury travel – A Mediterranean cruise, an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora, or a week at an all-inclusive resort in the Maldives.
  • Cross-country road trip – Rent an RV and take your time exploring the U.S., hitting national parks, charming small towns, and off-the-beaten-path spots.

This is your time, so don’t be afraid to dream big. The hardest part? Picking just one destination to start with.

Slow Empty Nest Travel: Savor the Experience

Gone are the days of rushing through a jam-packed itinerary just to fit everything in. Now, you can take your time. Slow travel is all about staying in one place longer, getting to know the culture, and actually relaxing instead of feeling like you need a vacation after your vacation.

Some of the best places for slow travel:

  • Portugal – Affordable, beautiful, and full of history and great food.
  • Thailand – Stunning beaches, warm weather, and a relaxed pace.
  • Italy – Rent a small villa in Tuscany and enjoy leisurely days of wine, food, and countryside views.
  • U.S. road trip – Pick a region (like New England in the fall or the Pacific Northwest in summer) and take your time exploring.

The beauty of slow empty nest travel is that you don’t have to rush. You can truly be in the moment, soak up new experiences, and enjoy your trip without stress.

Packing Smart: The Essentials for Hassle-Free Empty Nest Travel

Now that you’ve picked a destination, it’s time to pack. The good news? Traveling without kids means no more overstuffed suitcases filled with snacks, toys, and extra “just in case” outfits. Now, it’s all about packing light, smart, and stress-free.

Packing Light & Smart

The biggest mistake most people make? Overpacking. You don’t need five pairs of shoes or an outfit for every possible scenario. The goal is to bring what you need without lugging around a heavy suitcase.

  • Stick to a carry-on – Avoid lost luggage and baggage fees. A carry-on forces you to pack only the essentials.
  • Pick versatile clothing – Neutral colors and mix-and-match outfits save space and let you re-wear items in different ways.
  • Layer up – Instead of bulky sweaters, bring lightweight layers that you can adjust depending on the weather.
  • Use packing cubes – These help keep everything organized and compact.

Must-Have Empty Nest Travel Gear

Having the right gear makes travel easier, especially if you’re moving between different destinations. Here are some must-haves:

Destination-Specific Packing Tips

Depending on where you’re headed, you’ll want to pack a few extras:

  • Beach trips – Sunscreen, a packable sun hat, a swimsuit, and lightweight clothing.
  • Adventure trips – Sturdy shoes, rain gear, and a refillable water bottle.
  • City travel – A secure crossbody bag, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket.

Packing smart means you’ll have everything you need without the hassle of lugging around too much stuff. Keep it simple, and you’ll thank yourself later when you’re breezing through airports or hopping on trains with ease.

Budgeting for Travel Without Breaking the Bank

Traveling as an empty nester doesn’t have to drain your savings. With a little planning and a few smart choices, you can explore new places without constantly checking your bank account.

Set a Realistic Travel Budget

Before you start booking, get a rough idea of how much you want to spend. Break it down into categories:

  • Transportation – Flights, gas, rental cars, or train tickets.
  • Lodging – Hotels, vacation rentals, or resorts.
  • Food & Drinks – Restaurants, groceries, and must-try local specialties.
  • Activities – Tours, museum tickets, adventure excursions.
  • Extras – Shopping, souvenirs, and unexpected expenses.

Finding Deals & Discounts

Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. Here are a few ways to cut costs without cutting the fun:

  • Book flights early – The best deals are usually found 1–3 months in advance for domestic trips and 3–6 months for international travel.
  • Travel during the off-season – Avoiding peak summer and holiday travel means cheaper flights and hotels.
  • Use points and miles – If you have a travel rewards credit card, cash in those points for free flights or hotel stays.
  • Check discount sites – Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Hopper help track cheap flights, while HotelTonight and Airbnb offer affordable lodging.

Alternative Accommodations

Hotels are great, but they aren’t the only option. Consider:

  • Vacation rentals – Airbnb and VRBO offer homey stays at a fraction of hotel prices.
  • House-swapping – Sites like HomeExchange let you swap homes with other travelers.
  • Boutique hotels – Smaller, locally-owned hotels often offer better rates and a more unique experience than big chains.
  • All-inclusive resorts – While they seem pricey upfront, they can save money on food, drinks, and activities.

Save on Food & Drinks

Eating out for every meal adds up fast. Try these tricks:

  • Stay somewhere with a kitchen – Even if you just make breakfast and snacks, you’ll save a lot.
  • Go for lunch specials – Restaurants often have cheaper lunch menus than dinner.
  • Eat like a local – Food trucks, markets, and small mom-and-pop spots are often tastier (and way cheaper) than touristy restaurants.

Budget-friendly travel isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about making smart choices. A little planning goes a long way toward stretching your travel dollars.

Embracing New Experiences: Making Travel Meaningful

Now that you’ve got the logistics covered, it’s time for the best part—actually experiencing the trip! Travel isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about feeling them, tasting them, and fully immersing yourself in the moment.

Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture

Ditch the tourist checklist and try experiences that help you connect with the destination:

  • Take a cooking class – Learn to make homemade pasta in Italy or traditional paella in Spain.
  • Visit local markets – Whether it’s a farmer’s market in California or a night market in Bangkok, these spots offer a true taste of the local culture.
  • Stay in a local neighborhood – Instead of a tourist-heavy hotel district, pick a vacation rental in a quieter area where locals actually live.

Try Something New

Now’s the time to push your boundaries and step out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s a small challenge or a major bucket list item, these experiences will stay with you forever:

  • Outdoor adventures – Go river tubing in Arizona, take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.
  • Cultural festivals – Plan your trip around unique events like Oktoberfest in Germany, the Water Lantern Festival in Thailand, or the Waterfowl Festival in Maryland.
  • Once-in-a-lifetime experiences – Ride a scenic train through the Swiss Alps, take a wildlife safari in Africa, or see the Northern Lights in Norway.

Make Every Trip Special

The best travel memories often come from the unplanned, spontaneous moments—meeting new people, stumbling upon a hidden café, or saying yes to an unexpected adventure.

  • Don’t overschedule—leave time for wandering, relaxing, and discovering surprises.
  • Talk to locals—ask for restaurant recommendations, secret spots, and must-do activities.
  • Keep a travel journal or photo album—document your journey to look back on later.

Travel as an empty nester isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about rediscovering yourself in the process.

Staying Connected: Keeping in Touch While Exploring

Traveling without kids doesn’t mean you have to disappear off the grid—unless you want to. Whether you want to update friends and family, keep up with work (hopefully not too much!), or just have tools to make travel easier, technology can help.

Best Travel Apps to Stay Organized and Connected

Gone are the days of juggling paper maps and guidebooks. These apps can make travel smoother and keep you connected:

  • Google Maps – Download offline maps so you never get lost, even without Wi-Fi.
  • TripIt – Automatically organizes your flights, hotel reservations, and activities in one place.
  • Google Translate – A lifesaver when navigating foreign languages. The camera feature can translate menus and signs instantly.
  • WhatsApp or FaceTime – Free messaging and video calls to stay in touch with family.
  • XE Currency – Quickly convert foreign currency so you don’t get ripped off.
  • Airbnb Experiences or Viator – Great for finding local tours, classes, and unique experiences.

Sharing Your Journey Without Overdoing It

Let’s be honest—your kids will probably be more curious about your adventures than they’ll admit. And your friends might want to live vicariously through your travels. Here’s how to share your experience without turning into that person who posts every single meal on Facebook.

  • Start a travel album on social media – Instead of daily updates, post a collection of highlights every few days.
  • Keep a travel blog or journal – If you love writing, this can be a fun way to document your trips and reflect on your experiences.
  • Send postcards – A classic touch that never goes out of style. Plus, who doesn’t love getting real mail?
  • Have a set check-in time – If you’re traveling alone, make sure at least one person knows your plans and checks in with you regularly.

How to Stay Safe While Traveling

Staying connected also means staying safe. Here are a few ways to protect yourself while traveling:

  • Use a VPN on public Wi-Fi – Hotel and café Wi-Fi isn’t always secure, so use a VPN for safer browsing.
  • Have digital copies of important documents – Keep copies of your passport, ID, and travel insurance in cloud storage or email.
  • Use location-sharing – Apps like Life360 or Find My Friends can let family members see where you are (just in case).
  • Trust your instincts – If something feels off, listen to that gut feeling and remove yourself from the situation.

Being connected while traveling doesn’t mean you have to be glued to your phone. Use technology to enhance your experience, not distract from it.

Prioritizing Comfort & Making Empty Nest Travel Stress-Free

Travel should be fun, not exhausting. You’re no longer dealing with cranky toddlers, lost toys, or trying to find a restaurant that serves plain pasta. Now, it’s all about your comfort.

Choosing the Right Accommodations

Where you stay can make or break your trip. Instead of just booking the first hotel you see, think about what kind of experience you want.

  • Luxury resorts – Ideal for ultimate relaxation. Think beachfront views, spa treatments, and top-tier service.
  • Vacation rentals – A great option if you want a home-away-from-home experience with a kitchen and more space.
  • Boutique hotels – Smaller, stylish, and often packed with local charm.
  • Bed & breakfasts – A cozy, personal touch, often with homemade breakfasts and friendly hosts.
  • Cruises – Perfect if you want an all-in-one experience with minimal planning.

Don’t Overbook Your Schedule

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make? Trying to cram everything into a trip. Just because a city has 15 must-see landmarks doesn’t mean you need to see them all in one day.

  • Plan one or two major activities per day—leave space for spontaneous adventures.
  • Schedule downtime—enjoy a slow morning with coffee and a view instead of rushing out at sunrise.
  • Skip the stress of over-planning—sometimes, the best moments happen when you don’t have a plan.

Empty Nest Travel Comfort Hacks

Small changes can make a big difference in how relaxed and comfortable you feel while traveling:

  • Upgrade your flight (when possible) – Even premium economy makes a long-haul flight way more comfortable.
  • Pack a travel pillow & compression socks – Your future self will thank you after a long flight.
  • Download movies, music, or books before you go – Perfect for flights, train rides, or relaxing downtime.
  • Stay hydrated – Dehydration leads to fatigue and jet lag, so always keep a refillable water bottle handy.
  • Embrace “do nothing” days – If you’re traveling for more than a few days, schedule at least one full day with no plans—just relax, wander, and enjoy.

At this stage in life, you’ve earned the right to travel in comfort. Whether it’s splurging on a nicer hotel or simply slowing down the pace, make sure your trip is enjoyable, not exhausting.

Final Thoughts: The World is Yours to Explore

This new chapter of empty nest travel is about you. No school schedules, no waiting for summer breaks—just the freedom to go wherever, whenever, and however you want.

  • Start small with weekend getaways, then work your way up to bigger trips.
  • Travel at your own pace—whether that’s relaxing on a beach or hiking through the mountains.
  • Pack smart, budget wisely, and keep things simple.
  • Embrace new experiences, savor the moment, and create memories that are just for you.

This is your time to explore, rediscover yourself, and see the world on your terms. So go ahead—book the trip. The adventure is waiting.

FAQ: Empty Nest Travel Guide

1. What are the best destinations for first-time empty nester travelers?
Start with destinations that are easy to navigate and match your travel style. If you love relaxation, try a beach getaway in the Florida Keys or a spa retreat in Sedona, Arizona. If you prefer adventure, consider a national park road trip or a European city with great walkability like Paris or Rome.

2. How can I save money on travel without sacrificing comfort?
Book flights early, travel during the off-season, and take advantage of rewards programs for hotels and airlines. Consider alternative accommodations like vacation rentals or boutique hotels for more affordable (and unique) stays. Look for lunch specials at restaurants instead of pricier dinners, and explore free or low-cost activities like walking tours and local markets.

3. Is it better to plan trips far in advance or be spontaneous?
Both approaches have their perks! Planning ahead helps with budgeting and securing the best deals, especially for international trips. But leaving room for spontaneity allows for last-minute getaways and unexpected adventures. If you’re new to travel, start with planned trips and ease into spontaneous travel once you feel more comfortable.

4. What’s the best way to stay safe while traveling?
Stay aware of your surroundings, use a VPN on public Wi-Fi, and keep digital copies of important documents like your passport and ID. If you’re traveling alone, share your itinerary with a friend or family member. Also, research common scams in your destination so you know what to watch out for.

5. How do I make the most of my travels now that I have more freedom?
Slow down and savor the experience—travel isn’t just about checking off destinations. Take the trip you’ve always dreamed about, whether that’s an African safari, a Mediterranean cruise, or a road trip across the country. Try new things, immerse yourself in local culture, and most importantly, enjoy this exciting new chapter in your life.