Some Boomer spending looks surprising until you see what they’re actually buying, and why.
A Better Phone Instead of a New Computer
A Boomer who once used a desktop for everything may now spend hundreds upgrading the device that’s in their hand all day. Smartphones and accessories were the most common tech purchases among adults 50-plus in 2025, and 71% bought some form of technology.
The Hotel Room With the Better View
Instead of saving every dollar on accommodation, some older travelers are deliberately paying for convenience: a better room, easier transportation or a location that eliminates long walks and complicated connections. Travel spending among 50-plus travelers is projected to average $7,292 in 2026.
Cruises That Basically Package the Whole Vacation
A cruise can bundle the room, meals, entertainment and transportation into one trip. International cruising is particularly popular among travelers 60-plus, with 26% choosing it for international travel compared with 15% of those ages 50–59.
Family Trips Instead of Family Gifts
Rather than buying another present that sits in a closet, a grandparent might pay for a hotel weekend, concert tickets or a vacation with children and grandchildren. AARP found 86% of adults 50-plus rank travel among their top three discretionary spending priorities.
Paying to Make a Hobby Feel Professional
A casual interest can suddenly involve a serious camera, better golf equipment, woodworking tools, gardening gear or lessons. What started as “something to do on weekends” can become a surprisingly expensive collection of equipment.
Paying to Make Travel Less Annoying
Airport lounges, better seats, loyalty upgrades and other conveniences can turn a miserable travel day into a much easier one. AARP found 60% of older travelers had used loyalty discounts or rewards to reduce recent travel expenses—showing that this group isn’t simply spending more; they’re also looking for ways to make the spending count.
Sources
- AARP Research — 2026 Tech Trends and Adults 50-Plus
- AARP Research — 2026 Travel Trends
- AARP Research — Perception of Rising Costs Leads to Spending Cuts at Home, September 2026
