Older Digital Nomads: Building a Life of Adventure After 50
If you’re thinking about traveling full-time and wondering if there are any older digital nomads out there, the answer is yes.
I know because I became a digital nomad at 53.
Older nomads get overlooked a lot, but the truth is, with the right plan, anyone can build a successful digital nomad life, no matter their age.
Older Digital Nomads Are on the Rise
If you’re over 50 and dreaming about this lifestyle, you’re not alone. More and more people are jumping into the digital nomad world later in life.
It’s not just for twenty-somethings with a backpack and a dream anymore.
As a woman over 50, I can tell you firsthand it’s not only possible, it might actually be the perfect time.
I still laugh when I see people in their 40s ask if they’re too old to become a nomad. If you can move around (or have help), you’re not too old. Period.
What Exactly is a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is just someone who works remotely while traveling.
You only need a laptop, a good Wi-Fi connection, and a way to make a living — whether you’re freelancing, running your own business, or working for a company that lets you clock in from anywhere.
It’s not always glamorous. You’ll need to figure out things like housing, transportation, visas, and building a community.
But the trade-off is massive: freedom, flexibility, and the ability to live life on your terms.
What Does “Older Digital Nomad” Even Mean?
For this article, I’m calling “older” anyone over 50. But honestly, the same ideas apply whether you’re in your 40s or younger.
By the time I hit 50, I was ready to retire and start traveling, but full retirement was still a ways off.
The timing lined up perfectly. My son was independent. No grandkids to miss (yet). It felt like the right window, and I jumped through it.
How Old Are Most Digital Nomads?
Traditionally, digital nomads were mostly people in their 20s and 30s. They wanted to travel before settling down.
That led to this idea that you had to be young to do it.
Not true anymore. We’re living longer, staying healthier, and realizing we don’t have to give up adventure just because society says it’s time to slow down.
Why More Older People Are Choosing the Nomad Life
For a lot of us, it’s about freedom.
We still have responsibilities, but we’ve also got more control over how we live and work. Remote jobs let us travel without burning through savings. We can find cheaper places to live.
The lifestyle is flexible, affordable, and good for your mental health.
And honestly? It’s just fun.
The Hidden Benefits of Being an Older Digital Nomad
There are some serious perks to doing this a little later in life.
- We know who we are and what we want.
- We don’t care if strangers stare while we take photos with a tripod.
- We can eat alone in a restaurant and actually enjoy it.
- We wear the same four outfits over and over and realize no one notices (or cares).
If I had tried this in my 20s, I would’ve worried way too much about what people thought. Now I’m just out here living my life.
The Real Challenges Older Nomads Face
It’s not all sunsets and smoothies.
- Staying connected with friends and family can be hard.
- Building a support system in new places takes effort.
- Physical stuff matters. Not every place is easy to get around, especially if you have mobility issues.
If you use a wheelchair or walker, research carefully. Some places (like parts of Mexico) aren’t the most accessible. Sidewalks can have gaping holes or random steps with no ramp in sight.
The good news is with a little planning and a flexible attitude, you can absolutely make it work.
Staying Healthy on the Road
Health becomes more important the older we get, no way around it.
- Insurance is non-negotiable. Make sure you have international coverage. I use and recommend Safety Wing.
- Walk as much as possible. It’s good exercise and a great way to see a new place.
- Balance your meals. Enjoy that buttery croissant, but maybe not every meal.
- Swim when you can. It’s low-impact and great in hot climates. If your rental doesn’t have a pool, check if nearby resorts offer day passes.
You don’t have to be perfect, but you do have to make your health a priority if you want to keep traveling long-term.
Tips for Becoming an Older Digital Nomad
Becoming an older digital nomad is no different than for younger nomads. We still need to get a job, insurance, find a place to live, etc. A great resource for researching where to go is Nomads.com.
Here are some tips for becoming a digital nomad.
1. Don’t let your age limit you
If you want to become a digital nomad, do it. Don’t let anyone, especially yourself, tell you you’re too old.
2. Don’t put it off any longer
Do it now. If you wait too long, you may miss the opportunity. That would be a terrible thing to regret.
3. Get travel insurance
This is actually a tip for all travelers, but it’s especially important for older digital nomads. Travel insurance will fly you back home if you get really sick or injured.
Not only that, you’ll have someone to help you take care of all the details. I recommend Safety Wing. They’re highly rated and reliable.
4. Get this book
I actually wrote a book about how to become a digital nomad. It’s a step-by-step guide on everything you need to do. It also contains downloadable planning worksheets and other helpful materials.
If you want some great planning materials that help take the stress out of it, you can get them here.
There are also a ton of other great digital nomad books. Besides reading books, you should also follow some digital nomad blogs. There are a lot of great resources out there.
Frequently Asked Questions: Older Digital Nomads
Am I too old to be a digital nomad?
Can you get around with or without assistance? Are you breathing? If you answered yes to both of these questions, you’re not too old!
Where is a good place for older digital nomads to live?
Generally, a place with a lower cost of living is preferable. Mexico, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia are all low-cost destinations. They also have the benefit of having great climates.
What happens if I miss my kids/grandkids too much?
With Skype, Facetime, and Zoom, you can talk to and see anyone you want. I know it’s not the same as holding your grandchild. Just make sure to schedule regular trips back home to see them. And remember that they’ll think you’re the coolest grandparent ever!
How much money do I need to be a digital nomad?
Less than you might think! In many places you can live comfortably for less than $2,500 a month.
Can I be a digital nomad with a dog?
Yes! I am! Traveling with my dog is the best!
Where can I get affordable health insurance?
If you live in the United States, check your state’s healthcare marketplace. Every state has one. There are a lot of factors that go into pricing, but you might be surprised how affordable it is.
Alternatively, look at different travel insurance companies. Many offer health insurance. (This is covered in more detail in my book, by the way.)
What if I end up hating being a digital nomad?
No problem! You can always go back to your old life. Maybe hold onto your house for a while. You can rent it out on Airbnb or a similar site and make some money while you try out the digital nomad lifestyle.
What would you regret more: Trying something and not liking it or never trying at all?
How can I learn about different destinations?
I recommend joining Facebook groups for cities and countries you are considering. There are a lot of ex-pat and digital nomad groups. Even some general travel groups are helpful.
Not only will you learn a lot and get your questions answered, but these groups are great for meeting people in your new location.
Is being a digital nomad lonely?
The digital nomad lifestyle can be lonely. You can counteract this by being active in a digital nomad community. You’ll likely find some younger and senior nomads who need some friends too.
The Bottom Line: Older Digital Nomads
For older adults who have always dreamed of exploring the world while still earning an income, becoming a digital nomad is an exciting possibility and one that more and more of us are embracing every day!
With some research and preparation, it’s entirely possible for anyone over 50 to give the nomadic lifestyle a go and discover what this unique way of life has to offer. So why not take the plunge? You never know where it might lead!
Ladies, join my free, private Facebook group, Women Over 50 Digital Nomads. It’s a safe place to connect, learn, and thrive as a digital nomad. You don’t need to be over 50 but you do need to be a woman.
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