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Five winters ago, I traded in my full length pseudo down sub zero winter coat for a swimsuit and decided to pursue my long-time dream of being a snowbird. My motivation? To escape the bone-chilling grip of northern winters and explore the sun-drenched possibilities of the warmer US states.
I’ve always been very annoyed by the winters in my hometown in the north east, not just because of how cold it gets, but also because snowy and icy roads scare the stuffing out of me. No matter how many times I’ve promised myself I’ll never drive in winter conditions again, something always happens. You probably know – emergency babysitting is needed, a loved one is stranded somewhere, etc., etc.
I’ve been planning on becoming a snowbird in retirement for most of my life!
Transitioning into the snowbird lifestyle required careful planning, readiness, and proper financial preparation. Since retiring five blissful years ago, it’s been a whirlwind adventure, filled with unexpected detours, new friends, heartwarming reunions, and a healthy dose of self-discovery.
If you’re contemplating taking the snowbird plunge yourself, let me share some of the wisdom I’ve gleaned from my five winters under the sun.
Reconnecting: The Unexpected Perk of Being a Snowbird
One of the most delightful surprises of being a former snowbird in retirement, has been the chance to reconnect with friends, ex co-workers and family members I hadn’t seen in years. Planning my winter escapes around visits with cousins, aunts, uncles, childhood friends, and siblings has reignited relationships to an incredible level.
Staying with some of my closer relatives has been a budget-friendly bonus, allowing me to stretch my travel dollars further. For others, strategically placed highway exits are the perfect spot for catching up over lunch or dinner.
These reunions have meant as much or more to me than finally being a snowbird.
The Journey is the Destination: Epic Detours and Unexpected Awesomeness
Over the years, I’ve discovered the perfect snowbird travel formula for myself: the epic road trip with a twist! Instead of simply driving or flying straight to my winter haven, I relish the detours that take me off the beaten path.
My detours can be as diverse as soaring on an airboat tour through the incredible Louisiana bayou, its cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, or delving into the fascinating world of medical oddities at Philadelphia’s Mutter Museum. One year, the majestic Grand Canyon graced my itinerary, while another was filled with visits to quirky roadside attractions like the unparalleled Hillbilly Hotdogs in West Virginia!.
It’s all about creating unique memories and experiences that enrich my journey towards the sun.
The Art of the Extended Family Visit: Honesty and Open Communication
While staying with family for extended periods can be a joy, it requires a healthy dose of honesty and open communication. Not every relative is equipped to handle a long-term guest, and vice-versa.
Before booking those extended visits, I’ve learned to gauge compatibility and assess if my presence might disrupt their routine. Clear communication is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay for everyone involved. Sometimes, shorter, more frequent visits are the way to go, preserving the joy of reconnection without infringing on anyone’s personal space.
Prepping Your Home Absence – Smart Home Tech is Just Brilliant
Leaving your home for extended periods requires some preparation. Thankfully, smart home technology has become a lifesaver. With a few taps on my phone, I can monitor my home remotely, checking on everything from temperature fluctuations to potential water leaks.
It’s also crucial to prepare your primary home before leaving your primary residence for the winter to ensure everything is in order. See our article, Smart Home Technology for Aging in Place to see many of the options for home tech that make sense for our age group.
Here are a few additional tips:
Notify a Neighbor or Friend: Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property. They can collect mail, check for packages, and ensure everything looks in order.
Secure Your Home: Ensure all windows and doors are securely locked. Consider installing security cameras for additional peace of mind.
Unplug Appliances: Unplug non-essential appliances to save on energy costs and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
Peace of mind is priceless when you’re miles away, allowing me to relax and truly enjoy my snowbird adventures.
Snowbird Blues? It’s Okay to Stay Put
There will be times when the lure of your own couch and the comfort of familiar surroundings outweigh the call of the open road. Don’t feel like you’ve failed at snowbirding if the urge to hibernate hits! Take a few winter months off, stay cozy at home, and remind yourself why you love being a snowbird in the first place. You might be surprised at how quickly the travel itch returns!
The Financial Balancing Act: Budgeting for a Snowbird Lifestyle
Being a snowbird can be a budget-stretching adventure, but with some planning, you can make it work. Understanding your financial picture is crucial to ensure you can sustain this new lifestyle move. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up over the years:
Planning for the Unexpected: I consider myself fortunate that I have had the luxury of excellent financial advice (see Best 10 Retirement Planning Tips from My Relative Financial Advisor). But, even he could never have predicted the upheaval that Covid brought to our lives and, eventually, to our economy. I should have had plenty of money set aside for living expenses AND snowbirding. However, things are tight right now!! If you find yourself in that position, you have choices to make. You can either dial back the living expenses, dial back the snowbird lifestyle or find some sort of work to supplement your finances. (See How to Make Extra Money in Retirement – Top Advice From Experts)
The Expense of the Home Away From Home:
Rent vs. Buy: The decision of renting versus buying a winter home depends on your long-term plans. If you envision yourself returning to the same spot year after year, buying a property might make sense. It allows you to establish roots, unpack your favorite belongings, and potentially enjoy some rental income when you’re not there.
- I rejected buying a second home in favor of exploration. Over the past five years, my husband and I have been to dozens of cities to “check them out”. We’ve covered ground from Florida all the way to Southern California, with coastal cities along the way. I’ll be sharing what I’ve learned in an upcoming article (bookmark us and return soon!), but for the purpose of this article, I’d like to share that I’m very glad I did not buy a second home. I love the flexibility of seeing new places! I also like the fact that we do not have the worries of property maintenance on a second home.
Non Traditional Housing Options: Consider alternative housing to save money on your snowbirding adventures. Purchasing an RV and living in campgrounds in warmer climates during the winter is a popular option. Renting a trailer in an RV park can also be cost-effective. Additionally, some campgrounds may offer reduced rates in exchange for work, further lowering your expenses. State park cabins are another budget-friendly choice, though they might have restrictions on the length of stay. These non-traditional options provide flexibility and can help you stretch your travel budget further.
Book Early: Renting snowbird housing typically involves booking up to a year in advance. Websites like VRBO and Airbnb often list properties 12 months out. The longer you wait, the fewer options you’ll have with the features you desire. Make sure there are reasonable cancellation options in case of emergencies.
Additional Ideas to Save Money:
- Use Public Transportation: In many snowbird destinations, public transportation can be an affordable and convenient way to get around. This can save you money on gas, parking, and rental cars. I’ve stayed in Southern Florida and if you are near the ocean, many of the towns have a free shuttle to and from grocery stores, the beach and other common locations.
- Cook at Home: Instead of dining out frequently, take advantage of kitchen facilities in your rental. Cooking your meals can SIGNIFICANTLY reduce your food expenses. I have seen the restaurant prices climb dramatically in the past few years. If you drink alcohol, you might see mixed drinks costing upwards of $19.
- House Sitting: Offer to house-sit for friends or family in warmer climates. This can be a free way to secure accommodation.
- Home Exchange Programs: Participate in home exchange programs where you swap homes with someone from your desired destination.
- Loyalty Programs: Use travel rewards cards and loyalty programs to earn points that can be redeemed for free or discounted accommodations.
- Group Travel Discounts: Travel with friends or other snowbirds to take advantage of group discounts on lodging and activities, or perhaps share a house rental..
By implementing some of these strategies, you can make your snowbird lifestyle more affordable and enjoyable, ensuring that you can continue to explore new places and create lasting memories without breaking the bank.
Embrace Free Activities: Being a Snowbird Doesn’t Need to Drain Your Bank Account
Not every adventure needs a hefty price tag. Many regions boast free walking tours led by passionate locals, scenic overlooks that take your breath away, and outdoor activities that cost nothing but your time and energy.
Pack a Picnic Lunch: Explore local parks, beaches, or historical sites. Immersing yourself in the free offerings of a place allows you to experience its soul without breaking the bank.
Visit Local Markets: Farmers’ markets and local fairs can provide an inexpensive way to taste local flavors and meet new people.
Take Advantage of Nature: Hiking trails, nature reserves, and public beaches are often free and offer stunning experiences.
Don’t Forget the Fun: Embrace New Activities
Being a snowbird is a chance to explore new hobbies and interests, embracing an active lifestyle. Here are a few ideas to spark your inspiration:
Learn a New Skill: Have you always wanted to throw a pot on a potter’s wheel? Or maybe mastering the art of pickleball is on your bucket list? Many snowbird communities offer classes for a variety of interests. Learning a new skill is a fantastic way to keep your mind sharp, meet new people, and have some fun along the way.
Volunteer Your Time: Many snowbird communities have vibrant volunteer opportunities. Giving back to the community allows you to connect with like-minded people, use your skills and experience in a meaningful way, and make a positive impact on your temporary home.
Join a Club or Group: Find a local book club, hiking group, or photography club that piques your interest. Surrounding yourself with people who share your passions is a great way to make friends, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories.
Health and Wellness on the Road: Understanding Medical Insurance
Maintaining your health while traveling is crucial. Here are some tips:
Stay Active: Regular exercise is important. Many snowbird destinations offer walking trails, fitness classes, and outdoor activities.
Healthy Eating: While it’s tempting to indulge in local cuisine, try to maintain a balanced diet. Look for local farmers’ markets for fresh produce.
Healthcare Access: Before you book your housing, research healthcare facilities near your destination and check your medical coverage. Knowing where to go in case of an emergency can save valuable time and stress.
Understanding your medical insurance before traveling is essential, especially for potential out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Snowbirding is a Journey, Not a Destination
The most important thing I’ve learned is that being a snowbird is a journey, not a destination. It’s about jumping in expecting to have ups and downs as you learn what really makes you happy. On the journey to becoming a snowbird try to enjoy the feeling of adventure, embrace new experiences, reconnect with people who are important to you, and intentionally create a lifestyle that brings you joy.
There will be unavoidable detours (literal and figurative), heartwarming moments of connection, and maybe even a few instances of missing your own couch. But through it all, there’s the constant thrill of discovery and the chance to write a new chapter in the story of your life.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure of Being a Snowbird
The beauty of being a snowbird is the flexibility. You can tailor the experience to your interests, budget, and energy levels. Some snowbirds prefer short getaways, nipping at the edges of winter with quick escapes to warm weather, while others like extended adventures, fully immersing themselves in new places. The appeal of snowbirding lies in escaping the harsh winters for a warmer climate, which benefits overall health and allows for year-round enjoyment of outdoor activities.
It’s important to choose the right snowbird destination, ensuring access to day-to-day amenities and healthcare resources. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover the joy of being a snowbird!
Share Your Tips
Do you have any experiences or tips that would help our readers? Please feel free to share them in the comments below!
