Cost Remains the Biggest Barrier to International Travel

About two-thirds of adults 50-plus report having taken an international leisure trip, with nearly half saying their first international trip occurred more than 20 years ago. About 1 in 5 (22%) took their first international trip within the past five years. 

For adults 50-plus, the cost of international travel is by far the most significant obstacle to taking a first trip abroad. More than half (53%) cite overall travel expenses — including airfare, lodging, meals, and activities — as a barrier, regardless of whether they have traveled internationally before. Other concerns, such as safety and security (25%), language barriers (18%), and passport or visa requirements (14%), trail far behind.

Among those who have never traveled internationally, concerns about safety, managing medical needs, and mobility or accessibility are more pronounced than among experienced international travelers, suggesting that uncertainty and perceived risk may prevent some older adults from taking their first trip abroad.

First-time international travelers seek guidance, reassurance, and support

When asked what would make first-time international travel more comfortable, adults 50-plus gravitate toward supports that provide reassurance and personal guidance. The most appealing options include small-group tours with a guide (30%), assistance with local currency and payment systems (25%), translation support (22%), and help navigating passport and visa requirements (20%). While logistical support is important, these preferences suggest that older adults value confidence-building resources that make unfamiliar destinations feel more manageable. Accessibility and medical assistance are especially important for those who have never traveled internationally, underscoring the role practical support can play in helping more adults feel comfortable taking their first trip abroad.

Methodology

Interviews were conducted March 12 to 16, 2026, among 1,032 U.S. adults age 50-plus through NORC’s Foresight 50+ Omnibus. Funded and operated by NORC at the University of Chicago, Foresight 50+ is a probability-based panel designed to be representative of the U.S. household population 50 or older. Interviews were conducted online and via phone. All data are weighted by age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, region, and AARP membership.

For more information about this survey, please contact Lona Choi-Allum at lallum@aarp.org. For media inquiries, contact External Relations at media@aarp.org.