Boomers, Please Stop Doing These 15 Things That Annoy Everyone While Traveling
Alright, Boomers, we need to talk. You’ve got the time, the money, and the freedom to travel—seriously, you account for a massive chunk of luxury travel spending and take more trips than any other generation. But let’s be honest: some of your travel habits drive the rest of us up the wall. Consider this a friendly nudge from fellow travelers who’d like to enjoy the journey without the extra drama.
The Boomer generation accounts for about 80 percent of luxury travel spending, and they travel three times per year on average, with longer durations than any other demographic. This generation benefits from ample time and funds, allowing for luxurious global travel. But some old-school habits? They can grind younger travelers’ gears. This gentle suggestion aims to guide Boomers toward travel practices that foster harmony and win appreciation from millennial and Gen Z travelers who value serenity.
Clinging to Travel Agents for Every Little Thing
We get it—booking through a travel agent feels safe and familiar. However, booking a weekend getaway with a travel agent in 2025 feels outdated, like sending a physical letter when texting is faster. According to Condor Ferries, approximately 42% of Baby Boomers have booked travel through mobile apps, while 71% of other generations have.
Try mixing it up: Manage simple travel bookings through online platforms and turn to travel agents when planning unique, life-changing journeys.
Navigating with Folded Paper Maps Like It’s 1975
While unfolding a giant paper map on the street corner seems appealing, it creates obstacles for pedestrians, attracts people, and misleads travelers to incorrect travel routes. GPS applications provide real-time information regarding traffic conditions and road closures.
Use your paper map only for emergencies and let Google or Apple provide directions. By following GPS instructions, you prevent unintentional detours because you’ll make the correct left turn.
Refusing to Embrace Mobile Check-In and Digital Tickets
When you choose to wait in lengthy queues despite the availability of mobile check-in, you create delays not just for yourself but for all travelers around you. Research Gate mentions that generational differences exist in travel tech adoption, with many Boomers displaying lower comfort levels than other age groups.
Spend a few minutes reviewing digital check-in procedures before your journey. Digital check-in processes will streamline your travel journey for better efficiency.
Complaining About “How Things Used to Be” While Traveling
“Back in my day, airplanes had legroom!” “Hotels used to give free toiletries!” Nostalgia can be sweet, but it drags down the vibe for everyone when it turns into non-stop grumbling. Instead of rehearsing a travel lament, try pointing out the cool new perks: faster Wi-Fi, better security checkpoints, or eco-friendly hotels. Positiveness goes a long way toward making memories, not just complaints.
Sharing memories of past times is acceptable, but overdoing it can ruin the mood for all present. Traditional travel planning methods suit Boomers, whereas younger generations prefer digital solutions. Acknowledge how modern developments enhance the accessibility and enjoyment of travel experiences today.
Using Speakerphone in Public Spaces
Using speakerphone in public spaces involuntarily includes bystanders in your conversation, which many view as poor situational awareness. Protecting the personal space of others means using headphones or taking calls in private spaces.
People in the coffee shop lobby and baggage claim areas do not want to listen to your side of the conversation when you use speakerphone. Although you may consider using speakerphones as a friendly gesture that includes others in your discussion, others experience it as forced participation in a spontaneous podcast session. Don your earphones or place the phone against your ear to avoid public disturbances. We would appreciate it if you kept your conversations private.
Spreading Out and Taking Up Extra Space on Planes
Armrests belong to everyone. Holding both armrests or leaning into the aisle will earn you some disapproving stares. Research indicates that most travelers identify seat-hoggers as their primary flight annoyance.
Place your elbows close to your body while sharing the armrest fairly and carefully lower your tray table. Following these tips allows your neighbor to stretch freely without the sensation of fighting an octopus.
Reclining Your Seat Without a Heads-Up
Sure, you paid for that seat. But if you slam it back at full tilt without warning, you risk toppling drinks, smashing laptops, or throwing off someone’s meal. A glance or a “mind if I recline?” goes a long way. And during meal service? It’s polite to sit upright so everyone has elbow room. Small courtesy, immense goodwill.
If you recline your seat without checking first, the person behind you may face interruptions. You can recline your seat, but you should do it thoughtfully and gently. A brief look or a courteous alert can make a significant impact.
Expressing Envy of Others’ Travel While Staying Home
There is an inconsistency between enjoying others’ travel experiences and denying oneself the chance to discover new places. While many Boomers possess both time and resources for travel, they often show reluctance to explore unfamiliar destinations. Venture beyond your familiar boundaries because you could find remarkable discoveries.
Boomer kids often hear their parents say they wish they could travel to Bali. It’s the travel FOMO paradox: They admire exotic destinations yet avoid situations that challenge their comfort levels. The remedy? Find Boomer-friendly adventures such as luxury river cruises, guided small-group tours, and comfortable glamping options. You’ll start traveling to create experiences instead of living through other people’s experiences.
Overpacking Like You’re Moving House
Carrying too much luggage creates both extra costs and operational difficulties. Boomers frequently overpack since they tend to prepare for every possible scenario. Travel with minimal luggage because you can find necessities at stores in nearly every destination.
Three suitcases and a guitar result from the “just in case” approach to packing. Carrying so much weight does not show off strength but creates physical distress for you and those assisting you. Reduce your clothing selection to versatile pieces and use laundry services or local shops for additional jackets when needed. You’ll experience freedom when you carry just one bag.
Ignoring Weather Forecasts and Destination Research
“What do you mean it rains in London in June?” Packing sand-proof clothes for the rainy season is a rookie mistake. Skip the surprises by checking weather patterns, local holidays, and cultural norms before you go. Pack layers, waterproof shoes, or a proper adapter. You’ll spend less time grumbling and more time exploring.
Neglecting to investigate weather patterns or regional customs might result in packing errors and lost travel experiences. Lack of preparation for a trip can turn an enjoyable experience into multiple preventable problems. Minimal research can significantly improve your travel experience.
Carrying Fistfuls of Cash Everywhere
Worried about fees? Fair. Carrying hundreds of dollars in small bills increases your risk of being pickpocketed. It triggers anxiety about your safety. Choose no-fee credit cards, prepaid travel cards, or mobile wallet systems. Carry limited cash solely for tipping and buying street food. Reduce your belongings, and your mental state will improve.
Skipping Travel Insurance and Health Prep
“I’ve never gotten sick abroad.” Famous last words. Health emergencies are possible everywhere, while medical expenses reach sky-high levels in certain countries. Whenever you travel with proper insurance that covers medical expenses, you’ll feel fortunate having it, despite hoping never to use it.
Consult your doctor about necessary vaccines, medications, and equipment. Prevention is much easier than evacuation.
Neglecting Proper Hydration and Rest
Travel excitement often leads people to overlook essential needs such as drinking water and getting enough sleep. Older travelers face unique challenges when these basic needs are ignored. Maintain your energy levels by staying hydrated and including rest periods throughout your travel schedule.
Sightseeing marathons seem thrilling until they lead to yawning during a palace tour and dehydration headaches. Keep a reusable water bottle handy. Plan afternoon breaks or relaxed tours instead of trying to visit 10 museums in a single day. Your body—and your travel companions—will thank you.
Underestimating the Effects of Jet Lag
As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to jet lag, which results in tiredness and irritability. Some boomers overlook jet lag’s effects, which affect their travel enjoyment. Give yourself time to adapt to different time zones, and think about getting to your destination one day ahead to ease into the new schedule.
A 2 a.m. arrival in Tokyo, followed by an immediate visit to a sushi bar, sounds romantic until you drool on your napkin. Plan an additional day for adjustment, slowly modify your sleep schedule before departure, or use light exposure methods to re-align your internal clock. Starting your trip well-rested lets you experience your destination without any delay.
Overloading Itineraries
Twelve tours, five meals, three “must-see” stops in one day? That’s not a vacation; it’s a sprint. Overpacked schedules often lead to burnout, and you miss the serendipitous moments (like that hidden café or local street fair). Pick your top three daily activities, leave room for wandering, and savor the small joys. Travel isn’t a race; it’s a story you get to write at your own pace.
When you attempt to do everything in a single trip, you risk becoming exhausted and missing key experiences. Boomers pack their vacation schedules full, transforming their trips into stressful to-do lists. To avoid burnout, organize your schedule by identifying key activities and setting aside time for impromptu moments and relaxation.
Boomers, your contributions to the travel industry are significant, and your experiences enrich the journeys of many. By making minor adjustments to some everyday habits, you can enhance your travel experiences and those of your fellow travelers. Embrace the new while cherishing the old, and let’s make every journey enjoyable.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
You Might Also Like:
How To Stick To Your Holiday Budget and Avoid Debt: With the holiday season in full swing, many face high expenses. The anticipation of gift-giving and the desire to create unforgettable moments often leads to the common tradition of seasonal spending, with the average holiday budget reaching a considerable sum.
