Turning 50? It’s Time to Travel Smarter, Not Harder.
Did you know 73% of solo travelers are women, and more than half are over 50? Whether it’s a dream girls’ trip, a solo retreat, or a bucket-list adventure, your 50s are the perfect time to explore the world. But here’s the twist: traveling in style doesn’t have to break the bank or sacrifice comfort.
At Fly Savvy Sol, we’ve gathered the ultimate list of travel hacks to make every trip safe, luxurious, and unforgettable—on any budget.
Plan Ahead Like a Pro
- Use Flight Price Trackers: Apps like Hopper and Skyscanner notify you when prices drop, but for advanced searches, try ITA Matrix or Momondo—industry secrets often used by flight attendants to find the lowest fares. Savvy tip: Set up fare alerts directly with airlines for exclusive deals that don’t always appear on third-party platforms.
- Book Flights on Tuesdays: Airlines often release discounts mid-week. If you’re part of the airline industry or connected through programs like ID90 Travel, take advantage of exclusive flight discounts for yourself and your network. (Use referral codes to save even more!)
- Opt for Overnight Flights: Save on hotel stays by sleeping on the plane.
- Plan Layovers Strategically: Turn long layovers into mini vacations in cities like Dubai or Reykjavik. Airlines like Singapore Airlines and Turkish Airlines even offer free city tours for passengers with extended layovers—a perfect way to explore a new destination without extra costs.
- Research Shoulder Seasons: Travel during off-seasons or explore lesser-known, less touristy destinations like Albania, Slovenia, or Guatemala for stunning beauty and unique experiences without the crowds. According to Condé Nast Traveler, destinations like Uzbekistan and Montenegro are rising in popularity among adventurous travelers seeking fresh, authentic experiences. Be a travel trailblazer who sets trends instead of following them.
- Set Google Alerts for Destinations: Stay updated on deals and must-visit spots.
- Use Incognito Mode When Booking: Prevent websites from increasing prices based on repeated searches.
- Get a Trusted Traveler ID: Programs like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck save time at security.
- Create a Packing Checklist: Avoid overpacking and save on baggage fees.
- Invest in Travel Insurance: Protect your trip from unexpected cancellations or emergencies.
Luxury for Less
- Leverage Credit Card Perks: Use travel rewards cards for free flights and hotel stays.
- Opt for Boutique Hotels: Often cheaper and more charming than big chains.
- House-Sit for Free Lodging: Websites like TrustedHousesitters and Nomador connect you with homeowners worldwide for free accommodations. For a luxury twist, seek house-sitting opportunities at vineyards, beachfront villas, or castles—unique stays that make your trip unforgettable while saving big. Platforms like LuxuryHouseSitting specialize in high-end options perfect for adventurous travelers. For pet lovers, MindMyHouse offers great opportunities to combine house-sitting with furry friends.
- Stay Loyal to One Airline: Earn points for upgrades and discounts.
- Book Private Villas with Friends: Splitting costs makes luxury affordable. Use platforms like Vrbo, Plum Guide, or Airbnb Luxe to find stunning villas tailored for groups. Look for options with shared amenities like pools or kitchens to maximize comfort and value.
- Use Cashback Sites: Rakuten offers cashback on travel bookings.
- Pack a Capsule Wardrobe: A capsule wardrobe includes a small, versatile collection of mix-and-match pieces that keep you stylish while saving space. Focus on neutral colors, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and multipurpose items like a scarf that doubles as a wrap. For first-timers, check out guides on creating travel-friendly capsule wardrobes for inspiration.
- BYO Snacks and Reusable Water Bottle: Avoid overpriced airport food.
- Ask for Upgrades: Be polite, dress well, and ask about free upgrades at check-in.
- Join Hotel Loyalty Programs: Perks include free nights, room upgrades, and late checkouts.
Maximize Travel Safety
- Share Your Itinerary: Let trusted friends or family know your plans.
- Download Offline Maps: Google Maps works without Wi-Fi when downloaded.
- Carry a Doorstop Alarm: Extra security for hotel rooms.
- Use a Money Belt or Anti-Theft Bag: Keep essentials secure.
- Learn Basic Phrases: A few words in the local language go a long way.
- Check Travel Advisories: Stay informed about safety risks.
- Photocopy Important Documents: Keep digital and physical copies of your ID and passport.
- Pack a First Aid Kit: Include medications, band-aids, and essentials.
- Stay Connected with eSIMs: Get affordable data plans with apps like Airalo.
- Set Up Travel Alerts: Notify your bank and credit card company to prevent fraud.
Travel Hacks for Unforgettable Experiences
- Book Local Tours: Avoid overpriced tourist traps with local guides. Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences, Eventbrite, or Meetup to discover unique, immersive tours—whether it’s a cooking class in Rome, a sunrise hike in Bali, or a street art tour in Mexico City. Savvy tip: Organize a group trip or guide your own tour; travel platforms often offer free travel or accommodations to group organizers when hitting minimum participant numbers. Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences, Eventbrite, or Meetup to discover unique, immersive tours—whether it’s a cooking class in Rome, a sunrise hike in Bali, or a street art tour in Mexico City. These options connect you with local hosts who share authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist spots.
- Dine at Lunchtime: Enjoy high-end restaurants for less during lunch specials.
- Use Public Transit: Experience cities like a local while saving money.
- Pre-Book Attractions: Skip lines and secure spots at popular sites.
- Take Advantage of Free Museum Days: Many museums offer free entry on specific days.
- Photograph Your Luggage: Helps identify it if lost. For even more stunning travel memories, consider bringing a selfie drone to capture unique aerial shots of your destinations. Compact and easy to carry, it’s the perfect tool for solo travelers or group adventures looking for standout photos and videos.
- Sign Up for Walking Tours: Great way to explore and meet people.
- Pack Travel-Sized Laundry Detergent: Wash clothes on the go.
- Stay in Central Locations: Save time and money on transportation. Use forward-thinking apps like Stay22 and Hopper Homes that combine accommodation with nearby transportation options, helping you plan smarter and save on local travel costs. Bonus Tip: Use travel guide platforms to coordinate group trips and enjoy perks like discounted rates or free travel for organizers. Use forward-thinking apps like Stay22 and Hopper Homes that combine accommodation with nearby transportation options, helping you plan smarter and save on local travel costs.
- Bring a Travel Journal: Document your adventures for future inspiration. Use prompts like ‘What was the highlight of my day?’, ‘How did this trip challenge or inspire me?’, or ‘What lessons or connections will I carry home?’ Themes like food, local culture, and personal growth can make your journaling richer and more memorable. For an extra personal touch, create DIY postcards using apps like Ink Cards to send handwritten notes and memories straight to friends and family’s mailboxes. Add a charm to your Pandora bracelet to commemorate each destination—a beautiful way to carry your travels with you.
Connect Travel to Fly Savvy Sol Values
- Travel with Intention: Use the Fly Savvy Sol Living Kwanzaa Planner to align trips with personal goals.
- Pack Fly Savvy Sol’s Affirmation Candles: Bring a touch of home to your travels.
- Book Through Your Favorite Bloggers’ Links: Support creators while getting great deals.
- Join Travel Communities: Connect with like-minded women through groups like Nomadness Travel Tribe.
- Plan Legacy Trips: Visit places that honor your heritage and history.
- Explore African Diaspora Destinations: From Ghana’s Cape Coast Castle to Brazil’s vibrant Salvador de Bahia, connect with your roots through rich cultural history, breathtaking landmarks, and immersive experiences like exploring Elmina Castle or dancing in the Pelourinho district.
- Host a Travel-Themed Party: Share stories and inspire others with Fly Savvy Sol products.
- Share Your Adventures: Post reviews and photos on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, or social media to inspire others. According to MMGY Global, Black travelers contribute over $129 billion annually to the travel industry, highlighting the immense influence and rising visibility of Black women as global trendsetters. Consider becoming a travel influencer—brands and platforms often reward early trendsetters with free trips and exclusive opportunities.
- Gift a Fly Savvy Sol Journal to Fellow Travelers: Help others document their journeys.
- Reflect and Recharge: Use trips as a chance to reconnect with yourself and Fly Savvy Sol’s mission. Track your journeys on a world map or with apps like Been or Polarsteps—perfect tools for visualizing where you’ve been and where you’re headed next. Seeing your adventures visually is both inspiring and motivating, making you the ultimate travel trailblazer.
Your Next Step: Ready to Explore?
The world is waiting, and your 50s are the perfect time to claim it. Which hack will you try first? Share your travel plans in the comments below, and don’t forget to bring Fly Savvy Sol along for the ride.
