Brits Over 50 Say Not Travelling More Is Their Biggest Regret
Not travelling enough is the biggest regret among Britons over 50, according to a OnePoll survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by Icelandair. The research found that missed trips rank above concerns such as saving more money or keeping in touch with friends. Many respondents also said they wished they had been more spontaneous, taken more risks and spent less time putting work ahead of travel.
What the Survey Found
- 44% — money worries are the main reason travel gets postponed
- 24% — family responsibilities get in the way
- 22% — other priorities take precedence
- 19% — are still waiting for the "right time" to travel
- 21% of over-50s — wish they had taken more spontaneous trips
- 17% — regret missing bucket-list destinations
- 14% — wish they had chosen adventures over work more often
- 71% of all respondents — believe it is never too late to make up for lost time
New Zealand was the destination over-50s most wanted to visit but had never reached, followed by Japan and Australia. Canada, the Maldives, Iceland, Norway, Italy, Egypt and Vietnam completed the top ten. The results point to a mix of long-haul countries, nature-focused trips and culturally rich destinations, rather than one particular type of holiday dominating the plans people still hope to make.
Younger respondents showed similar feelings about missed travel. Some 42% of Gen Z and 47% of Millennials said they wished they had travelled more already. Seeing the Northern Lights topped the once-in-a-lifetime experiences they still want, chosen by 41% of Gen Z and 42% of Millennials. Iceland and Norway therefore appear on wish lists across generations, alongside more distant destinations such as Japan and New Zealand.
The survey suggests that many bucket-list trips disappear not because people lose interest, but because they keep waiting for more money, fewer commitments or a better moment. That makes the destination ranking useful beyond simple inspiration. New Zealand, Japan or Iceland may stay on a list for years, but the figures show how easily "someday" can turn into the trip people later wish they had actually taken.