A poll of 2,000 adults has revealed that the biggest regret for people over 50 is not travelling enough. New Zealand, Japan and Australia were the top locations the older generation wished they had visited, with Canada, the Maldives and Iceland also featuring in the top 10.
Spontaneity and Bucket Lists
The research found that 21% of over 50s wished they had taken spontaneous trips without overthinking, 17% wished they had visited bucket list destinations, and 14% wished they had said 'yes' to adventures rather than prioritising work.
The study also showed that younger generations share similar regrets, with 42% of Gen Z and 47% of Millennials wishing they had travelled more. Seeing the Northern Lights was the once-in-a-lifetime experience they were most excited for, cited by 41% of Gen Z and 42% of Millennials.
Optimism and Barriers
Overall, 71% of all adults polled are confident it is never too late to make up for lost time, with many believing seeing new places (37%) or experiencing natural phenomena (18%) would positively impact their lives.
The study was commissioned by Icelandair, which has launched a competition to give away tickets to see the next solar eclipse in Iceland – in 170 years – as well as a visit to the country in September.
Financial and Family Hurdles
For all adults, lack of financial security was the top barrier to achieving travel goals (44%), followed by family responsibilities (24%) and other priorities (22%). While 19% admitted they were always waiting for the 'right time', rising to 31% of Gen Zs.
The average adult reckons they will experience five truly once-in-a-lifetime moments, but many hope this will increase for their grandchildren's generation, with 47% hopeful they will make the most of life and 38% wanting them to enjoy the natural world more.
A spokesperson for Icelandair said: “Travel gives us a great opportunity for lifetime experiences and this week’s eclipse is the perfect reminder to start making those plans.”
