Senior Nomads – How Do They Do It?

Like opening a cafe or writing a book, becoming a senior nomad is a dream we’ve all had. Unlike the first two ambitions, the third is a lot more achievable! Around the country, and in fact around the world, the alternative to ‘retiring-in-place’ is becoming a popular reality for over 50s. And it’s not confined to those with more discretionary spending than they know what to do with. Where there’s a will, there’s a way, and to inspire you on your own exploration of senior nomadism, we’ve sussed out some of the less common ways grownups are leaving home for longer and longer periods.

Destination, destination

The cost of living in New Zealand is continuing to rise, with 2 bedroom longer-term rentals in popular cities reliably over $600 to $700 a week. Don’t be fooled, however, it’s not the case in all parts of the world. In Penang (Malaysia), food capital of South East Asia, a 1 bedroom apartment in the most popular centre for dining, will cost you less than $180 a week. For just a few dollars more, you could be living in vibrant Mexico city. ‘Nomadism’ is all about living-like-a-local, and paying local prices, so as you do your internet search, head away from the more regular sites (such as long term AirB&B) and go straight to local rental agencies with enquiries. And always do your homework thoroughly by checking out if rental includes utilities and furniture.

Ahoy!

Getting from A to B is one of the biggest costs when you’re on the move, but it can cost nothing more than a contribution or a helping hand when you head to sites such a Crewseekers. Around the world (and in New Zealand), sailors are on the lookout for crew members – and that doesn’t mean you need to know the first thing about sailing. Some boaties want help with child care, others with cooking or hospitality. There’s also room to help out with sailing if you do happen to have those skills. Sail in the most beautiful parts of the world for a membership fee of less than $17 a month. Whatever crewing site you join, check out reviews and make sure you feel safe and comfortable with arrangements.

Volunteering

Genuine volunteering opportunities are often longer term (think 2-3 months), and they come with free or low cost accommodation. If cost-saving is your bottom line, steer clear of volunteering-tourism sites, which are often simply a holiday in disguise (let your pocket and common-sense be the guide) and head to genuine small scale NGOs, such as Lifting Hands International, who regularly call for volunteers. As you search, ask yourself what skills you have to offer, and don’t be afraid to promote them.

Workaway

What would you say to a year’s accommodation for $89? This is potentially available when you join sites such as Workaway where you volunteer to help out your host in return for accommodation and food. While it’s unlikely you’ll want to spend your whole time Workaway-ing, you can come and go from it, interspersing it with visits to friends, or catching up on fellow senior nomads heading your way.

If you’re excited to turn yourself into a senior nomad, why not set aside a chunk of time to browse the net in search of some of the opportunities we’ve suggested (not to mention the more mainstream ones such as home exchanging and mobile homes). In our next senior nomad’s article, we’ll explore some of the practical considerations of ‘leaving home,’ so be sure to tune in!