5 Expert Tips for Becoming a Grey Nomad

Are you looking forward to retiring and travelling around Australia as a Grey Nomad? This lifestyle is becoming more and more attractive to the older generation because it brings with it financial and physical freedom. In this article, we’re giving you our top 5 tips to successfully living the grey nomad lifestyle in your brand-new caravan.

Firstly, What Is A Grey Nomad?

You may have heard the term before but there are some misunderstandings about what a grey nomad is. A grey nomad is 55 years or older and is taking a long-term trip around Australia in a motorhome, caravan, camper trailer or tent.

There are different kinds of grey nomads; for example, the spontaneous kind without any plans, the well-researched destination hopper, and the rigorously planned nomad who can’t leave home without the kitchen sink. No matter what your travel style is, we have tips to help any grey nomad make their trip successful and comfortable.

1. Take Care of Your Health and Safety

The key to staying safe on your journey is to prepare for anything. Make sure you choose a caravan with the latest safety features, or have them installed by a professional. These include breakaway and stability systems, a reversing camera and well-maintained brakes.

Many grey nomads run into issues when they go camping a far distance from medical supplies and healthcare professionals. Make sure you have everything you need from the pharmacy and you’ve checked with your doctor before you get on the road. Know where your nearest emergency clinic is no matter where you stop.

2. Technology Is Your Best Friend

There is one thing you can’t live without when you get on the road, and that’s the internet. It can be tricky to stay connected in rural parts of Australia due to a lack of phone signal, but getting a dongle or a portable modem will save you a lot of trouble.

This tip isn’t about being able to check your emails; it’s more about knowing when there are weather warnings or local news updates, being able to find important contact details in an emergency and staying in control of your internet banking.

3. Set a Financial Strategy

You’ll need to ensure you have the financial stability to support yourself while you’re no longer working. Set a budget and stick with it for the entire time you’re on the road, making sure you take food, travel costs, insurance, emergencies, and caravan maintenance into account.

You may be able to continue receiving a pension, rental income or annuities while you’re travelling, so look into these additional forms of income to help you live the grey-nomad life for longer.

4. Plan for Your Return Home

Although you’re probably not thinking about coming back before you’ve even left, you will need to have a plan for when you return home. After a long period away, make sure you still have the funds to support yourself when the nomadic life ends.

What will you do with your caravan when you’re finished with it? Will you still have somewhere to live? How much money will you need to support yourself? These are all important things to consider before you start planning any long-term travel.

5. Find the Right Caravan for Your Needs

Being safe and comfortable during a long-term trip comes down to purchasing the right caravan. Speak to our caravan dealers in Bayswater, Melbourne to find the perfect vehicle that suits your precise budget. We have new and second-hand caravans for sale right now, so call Canterbury Caravans on 03 9729 8188 or contact us online today.