A new Bunnik Tours report into Baby Boomer travel trends and habits for 2026 highlights a purpose-led generation that is travelling further, more often and spending more in retirement. Here’s what travel advisors need to know.
The Baby Boomer Traveller: 2026 Trend Report looks at the travel preferences, habits and priorities for Australians aged 60-80 years and found a motivated generation making an impact on market trends.
In good news for advisors, 74 per cent of this generation trusts agents over AI, reinforcing the value of expert advice and human connection.
Baby Boomers are planning more trips and spending more with 1.3 international holidays per year – almost double the national average. Women drive travel decisions with 70 per cent of bookings led by women.
A whopping 84 per cent of Baby Boomers prefer small-group tours and are willing to pay more for authentic, intimate experiences. They also opt for off-peak travel with six in 10 respondents keen to enjoy comfort and safety and avoid crowds.
There is overwhelming demand for off-the-beaten-path destinations (95%) and culturally immersive travel (93%) among this cohort, offering clear guidance to travel advisors about what matters to Baby Boomers and how to sell to them.
While traditional destinations, such as Japan, Italy and Spain, are still popular, interest is rising for lesser-known regions in Africa, South America and Central Asia, shaping Baby Boomer travel trends in 2026.
While geopolitics, safety and climate are top of mind for around 70 per cent of Baby Boomers, this generation remains highly motivated to travel, particularly when trips are supported, curated and stress-free.
The Baby Boomer travel trends for 2026 highlight an opportunity for tour operators and travel brands to appeal to this wealthy, active and discerning market, which values reassurance, expertise and meaningful experiences over fast-paced itineraries or social media trends.
Bunnik Tours Joint-CEO Dennis Bunnik said the report highlights a shift in how older Australians view travel as a core part of retirement instead of an indulgence.
“This generation knows exactly what they want from travel. Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down. Baby Boomers are actively seeking cultural immersion, unforgettable destinations and stress-free travel experiences,” he said.
“For the travel industry, that means experiences need to be richer, more considered and genuinely transformative. The future of travel lies in storytelling, cultural immersion and trust.”
Read the full report here.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Baby Boomer travel trends are redefining what retirement looks like in 2026, choosing travel with purpose, culture and connection. As trusted advisors for this generation, it’s a reminder that experience and expertise remain the ultimate booking tools.
