snowbird travel tips

The Ultimate Guide to Snowbirds

• by Maddy Crozier
• on October 15, 2021

Home   •   Blog   •   Snowbirds and 55+ Rentals   •   The Ultimate Guide to Snowbirds

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Whether you’re still trying to figure out how to be a snowbird or you already have years of experience, this guide offers helpful information, tips, and resources to make the most of your winters in paradise.

Start here and make your snowbirding dreams a reality.

What Is a Snowbird?

The term snowbirds (also seen as “snow birds”) refers to a group of seasonal travelers who migrate to warmer climates for the winter. Also called seasonal residents or winter visitors, snowbirds tend to move from northern states to warmer southern states. The group mainly consists of pairs of retirees and active adults.

Many snowbirds migrate from the northern United States, but a large population of Canadian snowbirds also make the move. The word has been used in its popular context since the 1980s to mark the trend of retirees flocking south for the winter.

When Snowbirds Should Migrate South

Since snowbirds want to avoid a northern winter, they typically head south between November and January. Those who migrate in November can avoid the cooler season altogether. On the other hand, retirees who wait to relocate until late December or early January often do so in order to spend the holidays with family and friends before heading to their destination.

So how long do snowbirds stay? It certainly depends on individual circumstances, but most well-established snowbirds spend about three months at their location. Newer snowbirds may only spend one or two months, while the most seasoned travelers might spend a full five or six months enjoying the snowbird lifestyle.

Popular Snowbird Destinations

Florida is one of the most popular locations for snowbirds. The Sunshine State has long been a retirement destination, reflected by the hundreds of  active adult communities throughout the state. Florida snowbirds migrate for the comfortable coastal climate, world-class beaches, and affordable home options .

Another popular snowbird destination is Arizona , a southwestern retirement haven. In the Grand Canyon State, snowbirds enjoy the seasonally mild weather, resort-style golf courses, and diverse scenic landscapes. Nearby Texas has also gained traction as an ideal place to relocate for the winter.

Beyond Florida, Arizona, and Texas, more and more snowbirds have been choosing other states, such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Southern California, and Nevada. Generally, these states offer much milder winters than a snowbird’s home state, allowing migrating active adults to avoid frigid temperatures and precipitation.

Pros and Cons of Snowbirding

Snowbirding has gained such popularity because of the many benefits it offers to retirees. But deciding to become a snowbird is a major lifestyle choice, so active adults should consider how the overall benefits and drawbacks might apply to their own circumstances.

No more harsh winters. By saying farewell to northern winters, active adults can enjoy a milder climate year-round. The climate in many snowbird destinations remains mild enough to enjoy favorite outdoor recreation activities throughout the winter season, such as golfing, boating, and hiking. Many retirees seek out the type of snowbird weather that allows them to enjoy pleasant temperatures all year long.

An adventurous lifestyle. Northern winters often mean below-freezing temperatures, too much time indoors, and constantly removing snow. But snowbirds exchange all of that for an environment that allows them to spend time outdoors and enjoy their favorite activities. This can mean something different for everyone, whether it involves visits to local small towns or excursions to state parks. The snowbird weather allows retirees to enjoy their favorite pastimes and pursue new passions.

Broadening your community. Since many snowbirds maintain a primary residence in their home state, it means that they often live there for at least six months each year. This allows active adults to maintain close relationships with friends and family near their primary residence. But even when it’s time to migrate, many snowbirds make groups of new friends. Year after year, snowbirds can reunite with friends from across the country and also meet new like-minded individuals.

Planning, planning, planning. Even for seasoned snowbirds, maintaining a snowbird lifestyle can entail so much planning, packing, and scheduling that it may feel overwhelming. Not only must retirees make arrangements for accommodations, travel, and daily needs, but they also have to prepare their primary residence for winter without them. For many snowbirds, these efforts certainly pay off, and it may become easier with a few years of experience.

Cost. For some retirees who want to own their vacation home, snowbirding can easily become expensive. But even those who find more affordable rentals can face expenses that range from the cost of living to health care costs. Some active adults decide to take on snowbird jobs, which tend to include remote online work, to help fund their lifestyle while they’re away. A budget should consider a variety of costs in relation to retirement income sources.

Finding the right community. It may seem like the southern states abound with recreation and leisure activities for retirees, but it can be challenging to build a routine in a new place and find things to do. At first, it can even be hard to find a sense of community and meet fellow snowbirds. However, those who live in active adult communities often have the advantage of clubs and activities designed to bring together like-minded individuals.

Renting or Buying

After snowbirds decide where they want to enjoy their winters, they have to figure out whether they want to rent or buy a home in their new paradise. Some active adults decide to rent their winter residence seasonally, while others choose to buy a second home entirely. Each option has its own benefits and opportunities worth exploring.

Benefits of Renting for Snowbirds

For winter travels that are highly convenient and low maintenance, many retirees choose to rent their seasonal home. Most snowbirds who migrate south tend to settle in rental properties .

One of the benefits of renting is that it allows new snowbirds to test out locations, especially for first-time snowbirds who can rent a home for their inaugural trip as a way to get to know a particular area. The flexibility of renting also allows new snowbirds to rent for only one or two months, or an even shorter period of time, to test out the lifestyle.

Even for those who plan to buy a home in the future, renting provides an opportunity to explore different regions of a state. This can be a useful tool for deciding where to settle down for the long term. Those who take advantage of snowbird rentals can also travel to different states each season and explore the country more broadly. Because of this, renting allows retirees to enjoy the snowbirding lifestyle with much less of a commitment than buying.

By maintaining one primary residence and renting for a shorter period of time, renters also avoid the stress and maintenance of owning two homes. While enjoying their winter, renters can allow the landlord to handle maintenance and taxes.

There’s an abundance of snowbird rentals in Florida and many other retirement destinations. Several popular websites can help retirees find a rental home that best suits their needs and preferences.

Benefits of Buying for Snowbirds

Buying a home means dealing with taxes, fees, insurance, maintenance costs, and mortgage payments for two residences. However, buying a second home in a desirable location can also be seen as an investment and a commitment.

When retirees own a second home, they can customize it to their own preferences. They can keep their clothes, belongings, and recreation items there, which means lighter packing when it’s time to travel south. When retirees arrive, they’ll have all of their winter clothes as well as their tennis racquets, flotation devices, snorkels, and golf clubs at the ready.

Whether snowbirds decide to rent or buy a vacation home depends heavily on finances and budget . Owning two homes means twice the work to maintain two properties, but it also adds luxury and personalization. Ultimately, active adults will have to decide depending on their own situation.

Snowbirding Home Types

After deciding where to migrate, snowbirds have to consider where they would like to live. When moving to a new home for an extended period of time, it becomes increasingly important for the residence to be a place where retirees want to enjoy daily life. The home itself can feel just as important as the location, neighborhood, and community. Here’s a general overview of the benefits of three main home types.

Single-family homes. Generally, single-family homes represent the most spacious homes available in any given community. Most include two to four bedrooms, which makes them best for hosting friends and family who want to visit. These homes often have larger lots with backyards. With more property and more square feet, single-family homes tend to be the most high maintenance and the most expensive, but they’re also the most spacious and the most conducive for hosting large gatherings.

Attached homes. Often arranged in duplex or quad configurations, attached homes can provide everything that residents need at a mid-range price. These homes often have fewer bedrooms, but they can still offer dens and spare bedrooms for guests. Some attached homes come with a homeowners’ association (HOA) that takes care of some combination of exterior home maintenance and landscaping.

Condominium homes. Often the most affordable and best for downsizing , many snowbirds choose condominium homes for their winter getaways. While some condo homes can feel quite spacious, they still allow retirees to downsize for the season, which usually makes condos the most budget-friendly as well. Condominiums also provide a lock-and-leave lifestyle.

Across each of the home types, there are certainly other important factors to consider. Factors that can make a house feel like a home include size, location, cost, and access to amenities. Some snowbirds traveling with their pets will want to ensure that rental properties allow pets. Essential location qualities to consider include surrounding recreation opportunities, grocery stores, pharmacies, medical care providers, and transportation options.

RV Snowbirds

Of course, another home type to consider is the one on wheels. Many snowbirds choose to use recreational vehicles (RVs) to travel to their destinations. This may mean living and traveling in a confined space, but it allows retirees to see more of the country, especially for those who enjoy the open road.

An RV can add a lot of affordability and flexibility to the snowbirding lifestyle. It can be cost-effective to rent a lot at an RV park location. Several active adult communities also offer RV storage for those who would like to rent a home once in their location. Plus, snowbirds can remain surrounded by their own belongings, albeit a pared-down selection. Those who already own RVs or are considering investing in a recreational vehicle may find themselves well on their way to snowbird opportunities.

Snowbirding Resources

Looking for more resources and information about how to be a snowbird? Seasonal residents can browse publications designed especially for them, such as Winter Texan Times and Canadian Snowbirds Association (CSA) News Magazine . Many cities and regions also promote their own tourism websites that offer schedules of local events and suggestions of things to do, such as Visit Central Florida and Discover Coastal South Carolina .

On 55places.com, snowbirds can follow the latest news and trends about active adult communities across the country. Site visitors can search specific states and areas to discover their ideal active adult communities, and those with user accounts can even save their favorite neighborhoods and listings.

For more snowbirding resources, check out the 55places.com Rental Guide to Snowbirding and Guide To Snowbirding on a Budget .

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Ann's Entitled Life

Travel. Food. Wine. Gardening. Life Is Good When You're Retired.

Snowbird Tips You NEED To Know

By Ann 4 Comments

Are you a snowbird traveling south for the winter? Tips, advice and information for snowbird retirees (and non-retirees!) who plan to travel to warmer destinations during the winter months. For those that do not know what a snowbird is, it is commonly defined as a northerner who moves to a warmer southern state just for the winter months.

We have gone down south for an extended period of time the last three years. We liked it so much, that last year we purchased a condo down in Florida, and now snowbird down south for almost three months in the winter. Over the course of the last three years, we have learned quite a bit about closing up our northern home, and how to make the process of living in another state part-time easier.

● Arrange for a mail hold, or mail forwarding, depending on how long you will be away. The USPS will also gather up your mail and send it on to you for a fee when you will be gone an extended period of time. Financial documents such as bank statements, credit card statements, etc cannot be forwarded. Make arrangements with your financial institution to add a seasonal address.)

● Have as many bill pays online as possible. Utilities, credit cards, rent, mortgage, whatever you have that you can pay online, do so. This way, if mail goes astray you are still getting an email alert an account is due, and you can pay from your checking account online.

● Cancel your newspaper delivery. Arrange a start and stop date. If you want to keep up on local news, see if your local newspaper has an electronic edition.

● Cancel your trash service if necessary.

● Arrange for a part time caretaker for your property. Friend, relative, or paid service, someone needs to check on your house weekly or every other week. Leave a phone number with a neighbor for emergency purposes (assuming you have a cordial relationship with a neighbor). Make sure they go through the whole house. If someone isn’t there every day they won’t catch everything that could happen in your house, but footprints in the snow, even on occasion, will help deter a thief. You can also check with your local police department if they have a “vacation check program”, and if so, what it entails.

● Get a plow service. Make certain they shovel the walkways too. This not only will help you avoid a ticket in many municipalities, but it also doesn’t scream “no one is home!” to a would be robber.

● Put your telephone,cable and/or internet on vacation hold. Not all companies offer this service, so call your local utilities and ask. You will pay a monthly fee that is significantly less than if you were paying for regular service.

● Empty the refrigerator. We use this as an opportunity to clean out the fridge. It is funny how those condiments you opened “last week” were actually opened up months or years ago, and are now expired. If you are unplugging your refrigerator, and it is a refrigerator/freezer unit, make certain you have emptied the freezer too. Note: if you DO unplug the unit(s), you will need to leave the door open to prevent mold and foul odors.

● Empty your dishwasher. Leave the door open. This prevents mold and foul odors.

● Open up the washing machine lid. If you have a fuel efficient machine that has an outside detergent load, open that too. This will prevent mold as well as foul odors.

● Take out ALL the trash. You don’t want anything left in the house to stink.

● Shut off the water in your northern home. Open all the drains to let the water flow out, and leave open the lowest drain. Yes, I understand you will still have the heat on low, but believe me, there are enough stories of pipes bursting that it just isn’t worth keeping the water on and undrained while you are away for an extended period of time. This will also help prevent water from sitting in pipes and stinking up the place if you are gone for a long time.

Before we filled in our pool, Hubby and I went on a cruise out of San Juan one year. Sonny-boy was home, so the water was on. The pool guys didn’t shut off the water to the pool down the basement (they were supposed to as part of the closing process), and one of the pipes to the pool split!

Fortunately we have excellent plumbers, and after I gave them a quick call they came out and fixed the issue. We had a bit of a mess when we got home, but imagine how much worse it would have been if it had split in the house instead of in the garage? Just shut off the water and drain the pipes.

● Drain the Hot Water Heater. We did this last year and were glad we did. Not only does it cut down on the gas bill, we didn’t have to worry about the hot water tank splitting. Hubby also did something to shut off the pilot since there was no water to heat. Make sure you read the directions for your hot water tank. Our Florida tank is electric, so we need to unplug that one!

● Close the fireplace flue. This way heat doesn’t escape, and you won’t have any “friends” finding their way down the vent.

● Set the heat to low. Like low-low. The last thing you want to do is pay to heat the house to 72° when you aren’t home. These days, you can get set up with a phone or the internet so you can track your house settings (with the correct thermostat). Hubby always tracks ours to make certain it no warmer than 60° in our house.

● Store your valuables in a safe. While you probably have things you regularly store in a fire-proof safe, you may want to add any jewelry you won’t be taking down south, important documents, guns, etc. “Just in case” there is a fire or burglary while you are gone.

● If you have a landline turn off the ringer. That way, the neighbors (and would-be thieves) won’t hear the phone ringing without anyone picking up. If you have an answering machine, don’t change to an away message. Leave your regular message and retrieve new messages remotely.

● Unplug unnecessary lights and appliances. Even when running, plugged in fixtures can draw electricity. No sense paying for something no one uses.

● Leave a few lights on inside your house. Set timers, and have different settings for different days of the week.

● Make sure all your windows are locked. Adjust your curtains so that some of the lights you have going on will be seen from outside. Total darkness isn’t something you want.

● Set the house alarm. We have an alarm system at our house. We set it, and leave my brother as a contact with the alarm company. We had a scare once when the front door alarm triggered (for no apparent reason) while we were in Vegas over New Year’s. My brother met the police at the house, and the police walked through to make certain no one was in the house and nothing had been stolen or trashed.

● Set motion detectors if separate from your alarm system. We have both alarm and independent motion detectors, so we set ’em all!

● Lock your gate if you have one to the backyard to deter trespassers.

● You may want to consider having a doctor down south and up north. Last year Hubby went to the chiropractor four times a week in Florida. He also has a chiropractor in New York.

● Make sure your prescriptions are with a pharmacy that is easily accessible in both states. The first year we went down we only stayed for a month. I just made certain I had enough of my prescriptions to see me through the entire month. However once you are staying more than 90 days, this becomes more difficult to do. There are Walgreens and CVS stores in both New York State and in Florida. Same goes for WalMart, Target, and mail order drugs.

● Have a vet for your pets in both states. Our dog, Max has a disease that requires constant care, so we must have a vet in both states. This isn’t an issue for him because he always has a vet set up in St Augustine, in addition to the vet he has up here in the ‘burbs of Buffalo.

● If you have houseplants plants give them away if you plan on being gone for months on end, or make certain your caretaker is taking care of the foliage too.

Recognize that whatever you do to prevent mishaps, unless you have a 24/7 caretaker for your home while you are away, you may yet come back home to an unfortunate surprise. Last year we has several sets of contractors in our house doing work while we were away. That meant people could see someone was at the house. We had also turned the water off, and told the contractors they would not have water access.

But, last year was a wicked winter, and we ended up with a few inches of clear water at some point down our basement (it was long gone by the time we got home). This in spite of having a battery back-up on the sump pump, and a whole house generator for electric in case of a power outage so the sump pump wouldn’t die, and the water off and drained. The plumbers have theorized it was a bad snow melt, but since we were not here, we will never know exactly what happened. On the upside, our basement is now cleaned out and decluttered.

These are just tips on what we do to prepare for a trip south. I make no warrants that these will prevent any water, mold, household damage or theft to your house, these are just some friendly tips based on the experience Hubby and I have had the last few years snowbirding down south.

Do you snowbird? If so, what tips do you have for shutting down your northern home to head south?

● For more Library Reading on Ann’s Entitled Life, click here.

● For more Florida posts on Ann’s Entitled Life, click here.

Reader Interactions

October 3, 2014 at 11:16 pm

A hint for those who have cable: disconnect the cable from the TV and computers. I came home from a 3 day vacation 13 years ago to find one of the TV’s acting funny despite being unplugged. The TV repair man informed me that an electrical surge came through the cable line during an electrical storm while we were away. Expensive lesson. Thank goodness it didn’t happen to the other 4 televisions in the house. We didn’t have computers back then or it could have been worse.

October 4, 2014 at 9:00 am

Oh no Marie, that is terrible!! But thank you for the warning.

suzanne zen says

August 8, 2021 at 11:32 am

any tips for the car we’re leaving at home

August 8, 2021 at 11:51 am

Suzanne, my husband kept them in the garage. To keep the battery alive he connected the batteries to a battery tender (one per vehicle). Depending on where you live, and how cold it gets, that may be enough. If you live in a very cold climate (we are 6b on the USDA plant hardiness zone map) you may require more such as an >engine blanket.

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Snowbird Lifestyle, Cuisine, Entertainment and Travel

Snowbird Secrets

Snowbird secrets I wish I had known. Prior to being a first-time "40-something" year old snowbird, my perceptions of what it's truly like didn't match the reality of how it actually was. Especially our first season. Love, loss, life. Emotional highs and lows. Time marches on whether you are away or back at home. There are many facets of life as a snowbird that are not always outwardly apparent. Snowbirds have many secrets to unlock and these are a few I'm sharing from personal experience.

Snowbird Secrets: CELEBRATE DIFFERENCES

Be inspired, but you can't take it with you.

The most basic snowbird secret is understanding what is and isn't realistic. I don't have immediate family members who are snowbirds, so I had to unlock the secrets based on personal experience which definitely did not match my perceptions. Prior to my first snowbird season, I thought I could bring elements of home to our new beach home. And consequently that I could bring my Southern home back to my Midwestern home. It doesn't work like that. At all.

I have never actually been homesick, but I always wonder if I will be prior to leaving for a vacation or business trip. Having never been away for an extended time, I was a little nervous about making the adjustment for our first time as snowbirds. In anticipation of what I perceived would make me feel more at ease in our snowbird condo, I pre-packed some of my favorite small household items, kitchen appliances and "stuff" in an attempt to be more comfortable in our new place. We had never actually seen it in person, only photos online. I thought if I decorated the new dining room table with my favorite placemats, I would adjust easier. Looking back, it seems silly, but I was concerned about feeling homesick and thought I could combat it with my own belongings.

[ WHAT TO PACK, WHAT NOT TO ]

[COUNTDOWN TO DEPARTURE]

[40 SNOWBIRD HACKS, TIPS]

However, before our car was even half-loaded, I realized we were out of space to bring any non-essential items and much of what I thought were essential items. Of course, I was disappointed, but quickly shoved the five or six bags of stuff back into the house. After we spent time in our new place, it hit me. Our beach home should be celebrated for being entirely different than home. You cannot truly bring "home" with you in the form of things. Besides that, our beach condo already had a wonderful style of it's own and adding my own stuff would have made it seem out of balance.

[PET PREPARATION]

When we returned to the Midwest, it also became crystal clear that the mementos I brought back from our extended stay could never imitate or recreate our beach home. Each community and special place is what it is, but they are not at all the same and never will be. Instead, I've learned to celebrate the differences of my homes and to bring out the best in each place rather than try to recreate one as the other.

[MODEL HOME SYNDROME]

[SNOWBIRD GIFT/SOUVENIER GUIDE]

Snowbird Secrets: IT'S NOT EASY AS YOU MIGHT THINK

Be prepared for the emotional ups and downs.

Snowbird secrets also relate to coping skills. In retrospect, practically everything that could go wrong, did during our first season. Despite carefully planning and organizing, the first time was a bittersweet mixed bag of tricks.

While away for five+ weeks, we dealt with an escalating legal battle at home, issues with our accommodations, major car problems and the onset of a grave illness and subsequent death of a beloved family member--our sweet Golden Retriever, Reilly. I was absolutely second guessing if we had made a good decision to become snowbirds.

Truth be told, I wasn't prepared at all for the emotional issues that the snowbird lifestyle requires. In short, it was not easy to say goodbye , even for a short term, to our friends / loved ones, move our family and business to a completely new area with no support system and even much more difficult to return home  unthinkably without our beloved sweet girl, Reilly. I had no idea of the emotional landmines that being a snowbird requires.

[WHERE DO I BELONG?]

But for all of the stress and sorrow, we are very grateful and pleased with our gorgeous beach home, our adopted new Southern hometown and the wonderful, caring new friends we made, plus the special Midwestern guests we hosted, who inadvertently helped us cope with our first extended stay away. It wasn't an easy season whatsoever, but I learned more than I ever imagined. If nothing else, my husband and I both realized we are more resilient than any challenge we faced while away our first season.

Snowbird Secrets:

Think like a local.

Locals know all of the ins and outs of their region and so do seasoned snowbirds. This means you need to know your snowbird time zone, geography, weather patterns, regional counties, cities, tv stations, newscasts, nearest location of urgent medical care and so much more.

Why does it matter that much if you know your own and surrounding counties or hospitals? It doesn't, until there's a serious weather problem or other emergency. Our first two seasons, there were nightly news reports of criminals on the lam in Escambia County and our local area. A modern "Bonnie and Clyde" were on a multi state crime spree, which including taking hostages, robbing a Destin surf shop and robbing a nearby shoe store until "Clyde" was ultimately killed in a shootout. You betcha we quickly looked up where Escambia County is in relation to South Walton County.

Once you have those facts figured out, learn the local street names, shortcuts and customs . As an example, we found out Mobile, Alabama basically shuts down during Fat Tuesday / Mardi Gras because it originated there. We also learned there are typically no earthquakes on the Emerald Coast. I was worried about the occasional loud sonic booms and our concrete building shaking / rattling until the neighbors told us it's actually the local military occasionally detonating old munitions.

Stoplights may be different than at home. On my first solo venture our first season, I was in the left turn lane and befuddled by a stoplight that had a green arrow sandwiched between red lights. My on-the-fly plan was to wait and watch or even turn around if necessary rather than get t-boned because I made the wrong choice of when to pull into traffic.

Even something as basic as ordering a pizza may be different. In our adopted area, pizza places will not process your order (even when pre-paid with a credit card) until they call you back and confirm your order. If they can't reach you or you don't answer the call, the delivery will not show up.

Seasoned snowbirds know the month of January is the off season for businesses in warm climates. That means be prepared for shorter hours of operation or being completely closed for remodeling, staff / owner vacations and other reasons such as it's simply the slow season. You and / or your guests may not be able to dine at your favorite restaurant, take a dolphin or chopper tour or a sunset dinner cruise. Restaurants may have limited menus during the off season. And fish markets will usually only have seafood that is in season. If you're planning to tuck into a bowl of fresh steamed crawfish, you'll likely need to wait awhile. The bright side is you will typically not have congested traffic, long lines or wait times for the places that are open. And there are great deals to be had at the local stores who significantly mark down their leftover holiday inventory.

During the busier season, seasoned snowbirds take the shortcuts to get to their destinations, which usually means travelling side streets to avoid main arteries. Sure, you can drive down the beautiful scenic beach route, but it may take 5X longer due to pedestrian and vehicle traffic. You can shop during the day during spring break, but seasoned snowbirds shop later at night to avoid the lines / crowds. Not only does the activity level increase, the prices also increase. Most snowbirds head home before spring break rental rates go into effect.

Last, but not least, some snowbirds who rent their winter homes store possessions locally. Instead of dragging golf clubs, BBQ grills, beach chairs, canvas wagons, bikes, pet strollers, area rugs, easy chairs and a bunch of other stuff back and forth every year, seasoned snowbirds lease storage units and save the trouble of overcrowding their vehicle or shipping items. It's not a perfect solution because the cost to rent a storage unit adds up and the items still have to be moved in and out of storage, but for some snowbirds, it's a good solution. Some property management companies will take care of moving / storage for you so it's all ready upon arrival.

Remember, you will forget things -- such as where you hid your keys and valuables, what you left behind at either place and so much more. Another snowbird secret is, "Write it down!"

HOME VS. AWAY

If It Can Go Wrong, It Will

So we were displaced, which meant we moved into our condo a few days, then moved our essential things back out for 5 or 6 days, then moved back in again. And we had to pack / move our personal items, our dog, our business and office equipment as well. Not only that, but our friends from home came down for a long weekend and they were also affected, moving with us the last couple days of their stay. It was not the start I had hoped for by any means.

The first year we also dealt with major car problems. To condense a long story, after I walked solo 6 miles to two local stores to buy and replace a key fob battery (hoping that was the problem, it wasn't) we spent quite a bit of time finding a qualified local mechanic and tow truck.

Finally our car was diagnosed with a computer problem that required the dealer to handle. The nearest dealer was two hours away in Mobile, Alabama. The bill so far? $200 for the local tow and diagnostic evaluation, plus $700 for a one-way flatbed tow to Mobile.

The car sat many days in Mobile waiting a turn for evaluation. Why? The dealership was closed for Fat Tuesday, the last day of Mardi Gras, which originated in Mobile and basically shuts down the city.

We used Enterprise for our rental because they will "pick you up." Add $300 for that to the tally. And another $1,900 for the dealer's repair bill. The bright side is we visited Mobile for the first time to retrieve our repaired car and found places we wanted to visit on the way back to Destin. It brought us to picturesque and charming downtown Fairhope, Alabama on Mobile Bay. We developed an appreciation for a new place we would have not otherwise sought out.

[TEN LAYERS OF SNOWBIRD SECURITY]

[ SHOPPING / ENTERTAINMENT]

Don't Knock it 'Til You Try It

It didn't take long to notice the retired neighbors in our building carrying crock pots of food up and down the elevator at 4:00 pm every day. They get together for social hour, sundown and an early dinner on a regular basis. By 7:00 or 8 pm everyone is back in their own homes for an early evening. Sometimes they dine in and other times they go out.

Soon they invited us to their early dinner party. And our initial reaction was, "We don't think this is our thing..." for all of the reasons such as, "It's so early, we're still working; We don't eat dinner until late; We're too young for this," and on and on. But, we decided, "Don't knock it 'til you try it."

So we tried it and loved it! Aside from stepping outside to field business phone calls and being late a few times because of work, we actually enjoyed the early social hour -- there's enough daylight to watch the winter sunset, socialize with friends, eat a wonderful meal together and get back to your own place to continue your evening and get to bed at a reasonable time.

Socializing at an earlier hour also applies to restaurants/ entertainment. Snowbirds know which local restaurants offer off-seaon "two for one" dinners or other great deals simply by ordering your meal before a designated time, such as 5:00 or 6:00 pm. And snowbirds know where to go for "hungry" or "happy hour" specials if you show up mid-day. Really, what's wrong with seeking a great bargain? Especially because in the winter, the sun sets earlier and oceanfront dining is not as appealing when it's dark and you can't see the ocean. Book your table and dine early!

[SNOWBIRD HOSPITALITY]

[SNOWBIRD THEME PARTIES]

More Leisure Time

Our second year as snowbirds, it became very evident to my husband, especially, that he had much more leisure time in our winter home than he had ever prepared for. Why? Our snowbird condo requires zero of his time for yard work, maintenance, tinkering in the (non-existent) garage and/or helping others with their projects or supporting their community events and so forth. Actually, the "others," who include friends and loved ones, aren't able to drop by for a casual chat like they do at our Northern home. So it was during our second snowbird season that my husband fully realized he needed to find new activities and hobbies for his leisure time.

Two of our retired neighbors play golf on a regular basis and they set and achieved a goal to play 50 rounds of golf during their most recent snowbird season. Another secret? They know which golf courses will negotiate better rates for snowbirds.

Think outside your usual constraints and develop leisure snowbird goals of your own. For me, pursuing my photography hobby and creating this web site and blog became my snowbird passion. I / we also spend more time visiting art fairs, shopping, lunching with the ladies, going out for breakfast with "the boys" and exploring new areas because of the influence of snowbird friends and having more leisure time.

[FIND THE BEST OF THE BEST WITH SOCIAL MEDIA]

[SNOWBIRD HOBBIES: 125 IDEAS]

"Life Goes On, Within You and Without You"

-- the beatles.

Seasoned snowbirds know they cannot possibly be everywhere for both the joys and sorrows of life at home. Logistical, financial and time constraints force snowbirds to make difficult choices. Illness and loss of loved one/s are beyond anyone's control, and they can happen at the worst times. Our second season, a close family friend's 26 year old son died unexpectedly. We could not return home in time to support our friend and his family as we wanted to, nor attend the funeral. It was difficult. Instead we honored Jay's son the morning of his funeral with a beach tribute.

[THE OFF SEASON]

To sum up, it's not easy for loved ones left behind or the snowbirds who are away while life goes on without them. Each has a special set of needs and circumstances to work with. Give yourself time to start the process of emotionally letting go of your Northern home before you leave and mentally moving into your Southern home. And vice versa. It's a transitional process involving your mind and body. Be prepared, do your best and try not to have regrets.

  The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear, for newer and richer experiences.

--Eleanor Roosevelt, 32nd First Lady of the United States

• Kale by LyraThemes.com.

A Newbie’s Guide to the Snowbird Life

Pulling up your stakes to travel south for the winter is often a daunting task in life. It also changes your lifestyle in several ways because it may be overwhelming. This implies that an individual must make difficult decisions therein. The burgeoning population of sun chasers has very little on resources as well as inclusive information to help them to make a significant change to the snowbird lifestyle. This article is the ultimate guide to becoming a snowbird. It highlights critical points those who aspire to become snowbirds must look into considering the impending challenges. In this blog post, we also share information on what to do before leaving for your winter location, where you should visit, and how to get to that place. We also answer some of the common questions asked by prospective sun-seekers.

What are a snowbird and the snowbird lifestyle?

Snowbirds are typically 55+ and escape the cold winter at home and travel to a warm destination where they can spend a lot of time outside. They rent accommodation at long-term rates or even buy a property. If the distance is drivable they take their own car or RV, else they fly and use public transport or rent a car. Often they cook their own meals and enjoy a similar lifestyle similar to if they would be home during the summer.

As a reader, you will gain a detailed understanding of the sun-seekers lifestyle. You shall even walk away with plenty of suggestions coupled with ideas on the most important things to consider.

• 1 Understanding the snowbird lifestyle
• 2.1 1. Choose an area that reflects your style
• 2.2 2. You should not go all-in at once
• 2.3 3. You should go electronic with the bills
• 2.4 4. You should not overbook visitors
• 2.5 5. Remember to pack for your pets
• 2.6 6. Try to be economical by cooking at home
• 2.7 7. Avoid packing items you can purchase from the summer land
• 3.1 1. Keep a Simple Wardrobe
• 3.2 2. Keep In Touch With Your Insurance Company
• 3.3.1 – Photography
• 3.3.2 – Reading
• 3.3.3 – Decorating
• 3.4 4. Consolidate Electronics
• 3.5 5. Always Go Digital
• 3.6 6. Decide to Store Different Items
• 4.1 – Finding a notch in the sunbelt
• 4.2 – Discounting your expenses
• 4.3 – Have a part-time caretaker for your property back at home
• 5 Additional Information
• 6 Take-Home

Understanding the snowbird lifestyle

In this context, a snowbird refers to a person and not a bird, as you may have thought. These individuals are also known as sun hunters or winter visitors. They are seasonal travelers, often retirees, who move to various areas with slightly warmer climates, particularly in winter. It was not always this way- today, the majority of winter travelers are between the ages of 45 and 68. These are actually baby boomers. The generation is prominent for being pro-active. These people are also not just educated but wealthy. Other than that, they can quickly adapt to the lifestyle of a winter traveler promptly. Over 65 percent of sun-seekers are healthy and fit to travel. Individuals who stayed in a single area but are of the same demographic actually reported as having undesirable health. 

When does snowbirding occur?

In the next couple of months, hundreds of northerners, also known as sun searchers, will escape their homes because of the cold climate to spend their winter in different warm places and sunny spots not just in southern but northern areas of the US. If you have thought that packing your essentials for two weeks is hard, then try packing for months. A winter visitor's checklist often includes winterizing the main home and changing their addresses with USPS, besides registering their vehicles in a secondary state. You may also need to pack essential tax documents, insurance information, as well as place an order for long-term prescriptions. So how does one become a winter visitor? We shall discuss this in the next paragraphs.

It is a pretty tough time to be a winter visitor. Various memories of last year's winter in Canada are pretty fresh. At the same time, the US dollar keeps soaring. Property prices are definitely rebounding. Most people may wonder if it is better to stay home and then invest in an electric blanket. Luckily, just a couple of months in the United States of America, Sunbelt is literally within reach, particularly for middle-class retirees.

You may, however, have to economize compared to the past few years. Take a look around you will realize that there are a couple of affordable places around if you are on a tight budget, the primary strategy for finding affordable accommodation is coupled with the ability to manage your finances. In the following segments, we shall take you through primary snowbird budgets not just for couples renting in the Sunbelt for a few months but how to enjoy life with family on a budget of up to $7,000.

1 . Choose an area that reflects your style

Generally, winter visitors are known for choosing living areas based on the places they have initially visited on vacation. Here is a point to note on the same- fleeing your native home to settle in a land where you will be spending your daily life isn't a vacation. For that reason, your sun-seeking location should reflect the kind of activities you usually indulge in. It also needs to reflect your lifestyle, including what you often do.

You should create automatic payments before leaving your home. Ensure that you have paid creditors and set up an electronic pay bill with the bank account you often use. In case your bank account does not have its branch where you will be visiting, then you should open an account near your winter home. Other than that, you need to know that if you are an active individual who loves to have fun, then a laid-back conservative society at the beach will not serve you. You may have to rethink your decision.

2. You should not go all-in at once

Begin your winter visiting experience by renting an area for a month. Stay in the area for a month before devoting to an entire winter. You need to be sure that you love the place before settling in. That said, you can only know it if you live it. In case you're unhappy, then you can always try the place next year.

On the other hand, if you are happy with the area, you can always book the entire winter. Find the right spot and initiate a rental arrangement with the landlord. You may as well book the following year prior to leaving because good rentals are hot cake.

3. You should go electronic with the bills

In the past, it was challenging to keep up with life when you were in a different country and away from home. People needed to check emails to see if they had received bills. They also paid their bills using the same platform. Over the years, technology has made things easier for us. Before you depart your home for the summer, you should create various automatic payments using regular creditors.

4. You should not overbook visitors

Friends, as well as family hailing from the north, can initiate a visit because you are settling into a warmer region. While this could be a kind gesture, not just from you but family alike, you need not overdo it. Try not to overdo your extended open invitations. Of course, we all love it when friends and family visit. However, being a frequent host can take a lot of energy as well as time. You should, therefore, schedule such visits-do it in moderation. If not, your winter home is going to turn into a resort for breakfast and bed. This would be devastating because it would be without income.

5. Remember to pack for your pets

If you are a pet lover, then you know how important it is to create a packing list. Remember, you should plan for your pet's expenses before anything else. To achieve this, you need to shop around for some of the best options around. Find out the best price on food, warmers, and medications. Your furry friends should definitely have their items packed in an organized manner. Therefore, you must also remember to carry their travel requirements. This should not be a last-minute thought.

Here are a few key elements to look into as you pack for your pet.

• Does your furry friend have the prescriptions needed?
• Have you copies of the pet's medical records?
• Have you packed your pet's toys?
• Do you have blankets?
• Does the winterization city have requirements for pet registration?

6. Try to be economical by cooking at home

Traveling to a foreign state in itself is pretty costly. Therefore, you must master a few tips on how to save money. One of the leading ways to achieve this is by cooking at home. Towards that end, you should not take up a large room-load your kitchen area into the trunk of your vehicle. There is often an easier way too. This is particularly if you intend to revisit the same place. If you are renting, go along with your appliances such as a blender and room heater.

On the other hand, if you own property, you should focus on purchasing another different set of appliances, which you should leave behind. If you rent in that same region year in and out, then you can look for self-storage for your tools and additional household items. This may save you space every time you make a winter trip.

7. Avoid packing items you can purchase from the summer land

You may be tempted to pack various items such as mouthwash, body lotion, hair shampoo, and toothpaste. This will cost you because such things take up ample space in your travel bag. They may also create a mess during transit. These items should be readily available in various tuck shops at the winter residence. Consider buying them from that place instead.

Relevant things a snowbird must know

 As earlier highlighted, a snowbird travels occasionally. Therefore, they usually look for the most affordable places to reside. In the next segment of this blog post, the discussion will focus on all you should know about seasonal vacationers.  You will get to know about different packing tips that will help to ensure that you can travel in a less stressful manner.

Young people also take advantage of snowbirding, although they may not have retired fully. Since people can commute easily from one region to another, they can easily lead to a transient lifestyle. Most people are looking for different ways through which they can take advantage of the snowbird lifestyle.

People save money by planning a trip earlier and also packing everything efficiently. When you set a budget and also stick to it, the while traveling experience will be manageable. In this snowbird checklist, some tips will be provided on how to save money and also pack efficiently. 

1. Keep a Simple Wardrobe

Regardless of the destination that you are traveling to, ensure that you have packed clothes that will align with the weather conditions of the specific region. For instance, the temperatures in Phoenix are quite high at some point. When traveling to such an area, make sure that you have carried a light jacket and some pants. Never go overboard when packing clothes. A simple wardrobe ensures that you will not pay more money because of the moving expenses. When traveling to a state that has favorable temperatures, you will not have to pack a heavy jacket. In such an instance, pack a light jacket that has long sleeves.

2. Keep In Touch With Your Insurance Company

When traveling, you may get sick, and the medical expense may pile up. In some instances, the doctor may have prescribed some medicine, and you may need to refill the drugs at the pharmacy. Some of the drugs that may be prescribed include opioid painkillers. The insurance company may not be covering the out-of-network services, and that is why you should contact them before you travel.

The following tips allow you to know whether you have been fully covered by the insurance company even when you're traveling:

• Some insurance companies operate nationwide, and that means that they cover numerous states.
• If the insurance complies with the Affordable Care Act, it might cover you even when you are traveling.
• In some cases, you may have to look for supplemental insurance coverage.

The best solution, in this case, is to liaise with the health insurance company and the pharmacist when you are about to travel. After conversing with the pharmacist, you can purchase various drugs legally before you travel, and you will also not live in fear since you will have your meds. Also, you can adjust your health insurance cover temporarily so that it can include out-of-network services.

3. Come Up With Inexpensive Hobbies

After retiring, you will have a lot of free time, and you can engage in different activities that you prefer indulging in. Unfortunately, some things will not fit well in your car, and you may incur some extra expenses when going out. Make sure that you have packed some items that you own, and they will keep you occupied throughout when traveling before you get a temporary home.

Some of the hobbies that you may consider include:

– Photography

If you own a camera, you should make sure that the camera body is well protected. Also, the extra padding will ensure that the filters and lenses are well protected. Before you start the journey, make sure that the whole camera is disassembled. If you are traveling on a plane, do not store it in the checked bag. Also, do not carry lithium batteries. Some people do not have cameras, but they can also take photographs using their smartphones.

– Reading

Technology has significantly advanced, and you can also read a lot while traveling. You can carry a tablet and read different books from platforms such as Amazon. The main advantage of tablets is that they can store a large number of books, on the other hand, a suitcase can only carry at least six novels, and such an investment is quite costly.

– Decorating

When decorating your temporary living space, you will encounter some challenges. Cross different items off the packing list and also collect some pieces in the city that you are supposed to visit. Make sure that you have turned your living space into a real home. Some online materials will allow you to learn more about interior design. You will also be able to utilize different storage units accordingly. By keeping different items close, you will not have to move back and forth. Also, you will not be tasked with purchasing new items annually. 

4. Consolidate Electronics

It was earlier mentioned that electronics such as tablets come in handy while traveling. Your comfort level matters, and you can opt for a tablet, laptop, or smartphone. If you have a tablet and a computer, you will not have to spend money on other appliances, including:

• Radios and stereos (you can listen to your favorite radio stations online).
• Television.
• Desktop computers.
• GPS devices.
• Video recorders.
• Address books.

If you have a good smartphone, you will reduce the number of appliances that you have to pack when traveling. Also, make sure that you have carried your charger.

5. Always Go Digital

At times, people become a little paranoid, especially when the paperwork has piled up. The essential paperwork entails insurance documents, rental agreements. Your driver's license and tax forms. Make sure you have carried all these documents when traveling.

Some of the factors that you should consider include whether the documents should be presented in their original format. You can save some space while also ensuring that your valuable documents are intact. Scan each document and keep everything on a cloud server so that you can access everything using any of your mobile devices. Make sure you have carried all the necessary files so that you can also file your taxes on time, and you will not incur any extra fees by being fined by the IRS.

6. Decide to Store Different Items

Some people have many small items that they use regularly. It is advisable to store these items or send them to your residence through direct mails. Also, try to estimate how much space some of these items may need and also consider the shipping costs for different firms, including FedEx. After that, you can make a well-informed decision. Also, the charges by companies such as USPS are affordable when sending goods via mail. When traveling, some people may prefer car storage. Also, you may need to store some valuable items when you are traveling. There are many reasons as to why you should use self-storage at your snowbird or local residence. First, look for a storage unit that is nearby. Also, look into how you can set up one of these storage units in your house. With time, you will realize the benefits of self-storage units.

Things to do to stay in the U.S. as a snowbird

– finding a notch in the sunbelt.

For most winter visitors, accommodation is often costly. It can also vary dramatically. This depends on size, location, in addition to amenities that often go with it. For that reason, finding a reliable and attractive place at an affordable price should be your priority. Among prominent U.S. sunspot areas, California is expensive. Texas and Florida are generally cheap. Florida is cheap. It also has a variety of areas to rent, depending on your needs and locale in every state.

Prices vary too. Because finding a place to rent can be daunting in many ways, we encourage you to work with professional service providers in charge of home seeking. You can browse relevant sites for more information on the same. Consider checking client reviews of these service providers. That way, you will be in a position to settle in for something you can afford.

If you need something located near the road, your budget should be up to $ 1,400 per month. This amount should get you a fully-furnished apartment for a single-family. Space may not have several social amenities, including a swimming pool, but it must definitely serve its purpose. On a different note, you may also seek some best deals featuring unconventional accommodation, such as a park model.

– Discounting your expenses

It is pretty advantageous to spend in the Sunbelt because you will be in a position to cut your daily expenses for items such as gasoline and food. Some winter travelers have confirmed that such savings offset the strength of the dollar. If your lifestyle is similar to that of a Canadian, then there is definitely no reason to delve into budgeting more than you may have spent in Canada-this is particularly for daily expenses. For your basic budget, therefore, you should not allocate additional costs to your daily expenses. If you would like to splurge on pricey pastimes such as taking trips to various interesting destinations, it may add costs to your budget.

– Have a part-time caretaker for your property back at home

Because you are traveling to a different region, you need to hire paid service to check on your home often. Consider leaving your phone number with the neighbor for an emergency. This is if you have a cordial relationship with your neighbor. Ensure they go through your home to catch everything that may be happening around you. You can also set your alarm system at home and then leave your relative as the contact with the company. That way, if the front door alarm is triggered, your relative can contact the police to check your house for anything that may be stolen.

Additional Information

Before heading south, you need to make sure your home stays protected. One of the first tips we furnish you with is to let the home insurer know that the home will be empty for a while. Find out what they need you to do in order to make sure that the home insurance coverage is in effect as you travel on holiday.  A few things you should consider doing at this juncture are:

• Winterizing your home – Here, you should have a couple of things inspected, checked, and then cleaned. These items are such as gutters and the furnace.
• Consider storing your valuables in a safety box. These are items you will not carry to the summer land.
• Suspend services: Next in line is ensuring you call your cable and internet provider to suspend your service. This should be temporarily done.

These are some of the tops tips that will help you to ensure that your items are safe for the extended period you will be away. As soon as everything is taken care of, you should rest assured that the only remaining thing is getting to your destination safely. That said, if you are on Medicare, you need to be in a position to obtain medical care from the summer land. This is only within the US. If you must use health insurance, then you should conduct extensive research on whether hospitals in your destination accept insurance. Are there doctors in those hospitals? Will the healthcare network cover you? You also need to carry along your medical records. These include prescriptions.

Retiring has a way of giving seniors some freedom that provides them with various ways of enjoying themselves. One such option is their ability to evade cold seasons by becoming winter travelers.

While some people may choose homes, others settle on picking a property and then renting it for that particular time of the year. Others may even invest in an RV to travel to warmer states. Before anything else, including home seeking, there are pros and cons you must consider. In this blog post, we have highlighted the primary elements.

Everything on this list is pretty doable. People who migrate seasonally have done so for several years. However, enjoying a successful winter visitor lifestyle is very involved than just going on a long vacation.

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11 Checklists to Help Manage Snowbird Living

Preparing to snowbird can be exciting. You dream of being warmed by the sun and great weather.

You look forward to spending time at the beach and getting to know others in your snowbird community . Or hosting friends and family looking for an escape to a warmer climate when the middle of winter arrives. 

Still, it can all become overwhelming and stressful if you're unsure of all you need to do in preparation for closing the door on your northern or southern home for months at a time.

Or for when arriving at your winter oasis or northern address after an extended period away.

Failing to prepare your homes and organize personal items and documents could be frustrating and costly if your housing incurs damage from a busted pipe or water heater, things are stolen during a break-in, or important documents are lost while traveling between homes.

If you're new to the snowbirding lifestyle or just want to have a better-organized one, check out the checklists below that are full of information and tips all new and seasoned snowbirds need to know and do. 

Topics include:

• winterizing your home
• preparing your home for summer 
• administrative items to handle 
• health and medication
• newspaper & mail delivery
• money, budgeting , and financial management
• what and how to pack
• vehicle and driving prep
• air and international travel
• security / alarms

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11 Snowbird Checklists to Organize and Manage Your Home and Travel

After combing the internet for the best checklists and resources for snowbirds we could find, we settled on these 11.

You'll find advice to follow for when you're heading south for a period of time and for returning to the north too.

You'll also find lists of what to pack (and what not to!) and a special list for RV travelers and those winter visitors heading to the U.S.from Canada.

When Leaving Your Northern Home for the Winter Months

When you're packing up to chase the sun, there are several crucial things you can do to help protect your northern home while it's vacant.

Take tips from these checklists below to help safeguard your home from heating or electrical system problems, water damage , break-ins, and other possible threats while you're enjoying life as a snowbird or traveling away from your home for an extended time.

Snowbirds: Winterize Your Home For When You're Away – Downloadable PDF Checklist from Travelers

Snowbird’s Leaving for the Winter Checklist from Topretirements.com with additional helpful tips from readers in the comment section

When Leaving a Southern Home for the Summer

Getting ready to head back north for the summer is easier to do when you allow yourself plenty of time to prepare for your time away from your winter oasis.

Use any of these to-do lists for snowbirds to get your southern home ready for summertime.

Snowbirds: A Home Checklist Before You Head Back North from Rainaldi Home Services

Closing Up Your Desert Home for the Summer from the blog of Desert Wide Properties

The Snow Bird’s Guide to “Summerizing” Your Arizona Home from RE/MAX Sun Properties

Marla Ottenstein's Get Organized: A snowbird checklist from Naples Daily News

Comprehensive Checklists for Both Your Summer and Winter Destinations

For a thorough checklist that covers everything you need to do in both homes, north or south, regardless of the time of year, this is a good one from the site Love to Know – Printable Snowbird Checklist and Home Preparation Tips

From the blog of the “largest heating and cooling company in Orlando, Florida,” you'll find a seasonal living checklist packed full of just about everything you need to know to keep both of your homes safe and comfortable all year long – The Ultimate Snowbird Checklist

Packing Checklist for Snowbirds

From clothing to food prep items to linens and pet supplies, Lana from Midlife Snowbird tells you what to pack for time spent at your winter address, with helpful tips on how to pack it and what probably doesn't need to go, in her article – What to Pack, What Not to: Packing and Organization Strategies for Snowbirds

While this checklist isn't specifically for travel to and away from snowbird destinations (it's designed for air and cruise travelers), we've included it because many of you may travel those ways and, most importantly, because it's an editable checklist with packing tips so you can easily make your own unique checklist. From the team at Smarter Travel – The Ultimate Packing List

Special Checklist for Snowbirding RV'ers

This snowbird checklist, just for those chasing the warmer weather in the RV lifestyle, will help you ensure you've got everything you need, plus figure out how much to pack and where to load it. From the blog of Sun RV Resorts – Snowbird Checklist Special: What do I bring in my RV?

For Canadian Snowbirds

Every snowbird has a lot to think about and do to flee the cold weather and enjoy chasing the sun without undue stress. Still, Canadian Snowbirds have a few other things to manage that U.S. Citizens might not.

This checklist is handy for Canadian Citizens, and it's updated annually too. Find it at the Snowbird Advisor website – The Canadian Snowbird’s Checklist – Everything You Need to Do Before You Go

Recommended Readings:

• Why Online Banking Is a Great Option for Snowbirds
• Gym Memberships and Fitness Options for Travelers
• AAA Memberships Can Save Snowbirds Money

Please share!

Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock are the #sunchasers behind Snowbirding Central. Together they own multiple websites and are the coauthors of the book Estate Planning 101 from Adams Media.

They hail from the North (upstate New York and Michigan) and each own snowbird homes in Florida with their husbands.

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Journey With Confidence

RV Snowbirding: 10 Tips For Heading South This Winter

• RV Lifestyle

Are You Flying South This Winter?

The definition of an RV snowbird is someone who moves from the northern area of the country to a southern state in the winter. Snowbirds can be retired people, work campers, or anyone who moves back and forth seasonally.

RV snowbirding used to be made up of primarily retired people, but these days, it can be just about anyone. We move our “home” from one place to another about every six months, avoiding any winter weather if we can. There are, however, a few things that I don’t have to be concerned about since my home is always with me.

Best RV Snowbirding Tips from an Expert

Check out these RV snowbirding tips to make your trip safer and less stressful, whether you are full time in your RV or spend part of the year in your home.

1. Choose your RV snowbirding destination wisely

You probably need to answer this question first. If you are planning on staying in a warmer climate for a number of months, you will need to get your RV resort reservations in early – probably at least a year in advance. You might be able to find a place with a cancellation, but it is also likely a popular RV park in a southern destination will have a waiting list. You can also break up your trip by staying maybe a few weeks to a month in different places.

Heading south can mean a lot of things, depending on where you originate from. Florida, Texas, Alabama, and Mississippi are all great places to go, but you might get some hurricane action if you’re there in the fall. Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern California are also popular states to spend the winter. These states can get some hot weather in the early fall.

If you like hiking, biking, or kayaking, or you are into birdwatching, or RV parks with lots of activities, these will certainly dictate where you decide to go.

Do your research, plan ahead, and check out reviews on campgroundreviews.com to get the full scoop on places you would like to stay.

Photo via Gulf Waters RV Resorts

2. Get your RV ready for your trip

This is an important step to get ready for your winter trip. Get your RV thoroughly checked out before you head south. Here are a few important things to do.

• Check your tires
• Check your batteries
• Inspect the inside for damage from pests, weather, or age
• Flush your water system
• Sanitize your water system
• Check for leaky pipes
• Replace propane tanks
• Check appliances
• Extend slides and awnings and inspect for damage
• Check brake lights and blinkers
• Restock supplies

3. Have your mail forwarded

Once you have your RV checked over, you need to make sure a few things are taken care of at your home base before you leave. Make sure you hold or forward your mail. Also be sure newspaper subscriptions are stopped or suspended. These are all things that will make your home less vulnerable to thieves. Have a family member or trusted friend come by regularly to check the house, mow the lawn, etc.

4. Winterize your home

These are a few of the must-do chores to perform before you leave your house for the winter.

• Lower your heat but don’t turn it off completely. You don’t want your pipes to freeze. Around 55 degrees is a good temperature to set the thermostat.
• Turn down the water heater. Check to see if your water heater has a “vacation mode.” Some of the newer models do.
• Turn off the water.
• Activate alarm systems.
• Leave lights on or invest in motion-sensing exterior lights or timers.
• Unplug electronics.
• Clean out your refrigerator and remove trash.

5. Pack the correct clothes and gear

Once you arrive at your destination, you never know if there might be a shift in the weather. We were in Port Aransas, Texas in 2021 when the “big freeze” hit Texas. As I said earlier, all our gear is with us, so we have clothing for warm and cold weather.

If you are packing to go to Miami, you probably won’t need a coat, but it can’t hurt to throw in a jacket and jeans just in case. Many places in the southwest are warm during the day and can get pretty chilly in the evening and at night. Be sure to take along cold weather gear for your RV such as a heated hose , double check your propane levels, and make sure your furnace is working well.

Photo via author Terri Nighswonger

6. Plan health appointments before you go

Depending on whether your health insurance is state-specific, you will likely need to have any health appointments done before you leave and make sure all prescriptions are filled.

Most of the big name pharmacies can simply go on its own online system and get your prescription filled in another state. Walmart is great for this and there are stores everywhere. Just make sure you have enough refills from your physician and you shouldn’t have an issue.

7. Follow these travel safety tips

Be sure to plan your route ahead of time. Know about road closures in advance, if possible, and be sure to note any states with COVID travel restrictions, although these are less than they were last year.

If you plan to boondock, make a few calls to Walmart stores or Cracker Barrel restaurants along the way. Check for their requirements, if any, to boondock in their parking lots. We planned to stay at a Cracker Barrel on a recent trip, called ahead to make sure we were allowed, and when we arrived, the parking lot was full to the brim with RVs. We managed to find a spot, but you might want to have an alternate plan in mind.

For added safety, keep your trips short, 5-6 hours or less, and avoid driving after dark. Avoidable accidents usually happen when you are tired and pushing your driving limits.

Follow these RV snowbirding tips for a safe and successful trip south this winter. Photo via Flickr

8. Know how to travel internationally

Those who are coming from Canada will need to check things such as visa fees and length of stay deadlines. Keep in mind what you will need for international cell and internet service, and be sure to budget for extra fuel costs.

If you plan to extend your trip to Mexico , you will also need to be aware of regulations when crossing the border, particularly if you travel with pets.

9. Plan to have fun when you arrive

So, you have picked a place that will meet your needs for the winter and you’ve done your due diligence. Your RV is ready for the road and you have your trip planned.

Once you arrive, don’t forget to have fun exploring the area, the amenities and activities available, introduce yourself to your neighbors, and have the best and warmest winter ever.

10. Check out these helpful resources

For all of your camping and trip planning needs, look no further than RV LIFE Campgrounds and RV LIFE Trip Wizard . RV LIFE Campgrounds is a trusted source of campground and RV park reviews offered by camping and RV enthusiasts just like you. With its accompanying RV LIFE App , RV LIFE Trip Wizard gets you to your camping destinations utilizing RV-friendly routes specific to your RV and travel preferences.

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How to Get Ready for a Snowbird Lifestyle

Before you migrate to a warmer climate for the winter, take these steps.

Harriet Edleson,

When Richard and Betty Ann Smith retired 15 years ago, they moved from East Brunswick, N.J., to Easton, Pa., and decided to start spending the winter months along the Gulf Coast of Alabama. From January through March, temperatures there are in the 60s and 70s — a climate the Smiths find much better for staying active than the winter weather in Pennsylvania.

“We go for golf, we go for fishing and we go for socializing with our winter friends,” says Richard Smith, 79, a retired Presbyterian pastor. “All along the coast, the snowbirds migrate, and they fill up the coast area in the winter.”

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The Smiths, like others who have retired, found a new freedom as snowbirds — people who migrate to warmer climates each year usually sometime between December and January. As temperatures dip throughout the U.S., snowbirds head south to escape the winter wind, ice and snow of northern states. Health reasons such as pulmonary issues motivate some, while others simply prefer warm weather. And according to yearlong residents of those sunnier climates, the snowbirds who used to come just for winter are now starting to stick around longer.

Along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, for example, the unofficial snowbird season used to be mostly January and February but now has extended from early November until March, says Kay Maghan, a spokesperson for Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. “We are seeing a much longer stay from our snowbirds in the last four years,” she says.

“There is a growing number of people who are becoming snowbirds and who are staying longer,” says John F. Brady, founder of TopRetirements.com, a website that focuses on retirement issues. “Boomers – a large segment – are tired of winter and the hassles that come with it.” 

In addition to Alabama, other states that have been popular snowbird destinations are Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, South Carolina and Texas, according to Homeaway .

Picking a snowbird destination — and deciding how long to stay there each year — depends largely on finances and tastes. Brady and his wife, Roberta, 65, who is a mystery writer, split their time between Madison, Conn., and Key West, Fla., which has become their primary residence. Others, like Washington, D.C., attorney Alan Tawshunsky, 64, continue to live most of the year in their home in the colder climate. Tawshunsky has spent the past three winters in South Florida, where he works remotely in his own law practice. “I prefer the milder weather in Florida to D.C. in the winter,” he says. 

Lora and Kenn Krouse began leaving Athelstane, Wis., 23 years ago for Gulf Shores, Ala., when they retired from Procter & Gamble. Kenn Krouse says making new friends is a key part of being a snowbird. “You just start talking to people and pretty soon you got a new friendship started,” he says. 

Getting ready to migrate to warmer climes takes some practice and preparation. If you think you might want to try to be a snowbird, here are a few things to consider: 

• Decide whether to rent or own.  If it’s your first time in a warmer climate, it may be better to rent first to see how you like the area. If you’ve already vacationed in a region before you retired, you may already know you want to spend the winters there. Typically, future snowbirds might spend time vacationing in a location, then rent for a month or longer, even in several different locations before deciding where to rent for several months or eventually buy, says Kenn Krouse. You can try out the place by renting, for example, through  Airbnb  or  VRBO .

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• Decide which location will be your primary residence . This will be a concern only if you own property in both locations or are thinking of purchasing a second home. Eventually, you may spend more time in the warmer climate and will need make it your primary residence. “We’re [now] Alabama residents,” says Kenn Krouse. Having bought a home in Gulf Shores, they changed their primary residence to Alabama 10 or 11 years ago. According to IRS policy, you can have only one primary residence at a time. If you own or live in more than one home, you have to apply a “facts and circumstances” test to determine which property is your main home. The most important factor is where you spend the most time, but there are other factors — including your U.S. Postal Service address and the address on your voter registration card, your federal and state tax returns, and your driver’s license or car registration.  
• Consider how you will obtain and pay for medical care. To find a physician in your snowbird area, you can ask for recommendations from friends and family there, or check with your insurance company for names of physicians in your new location. For those 65 and older, Original Medicare covers you in any state. “It gives you the complete freedom to go anywhere you want,” says Charles Dinerstein, a senior fellow at the American Council of Science and Health. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you typically have to go out-of-network and may pay higher deductibles and copayments, Dinerstein says. If you’re not yet 65 and/or you have commercial health insurance, check your health insurance policy to determine the terms of your coverage. Commercial policies typically will cover you while you are living out of your home state, but your out-of-pocket costs will most likely be higher, Dinerstein says.
• Prep your northern residence for your absence. If it’s a single-family house, make sure you keep the heat high enough or turn off the water to prevent freezing pipes. No additional insurance coverage is needed when you leave your primary residence for an extended period, according to Allstate Insurance Company spokesperson Ben Tobias. Consider hiring a snow-removal company to maintain the property, installing solar-powered exterior lights and asking a neighbor, friend or relative to keep an eye on the property, Tobias says. Also, make sure your bills reach you:   Decide if you will forward your mail, plan to pay online, or pay in advance.
• Obtain the necessary homeowner’s insurance.  If your second home or vacation house has a mortgage, your lender might require you to get homeowner’s insurance. But even if the bank doesn’t require it, you might want to think about buying insurance anyway. It can be smart to maintain insurance coverage for the structure, contents and your liability in case someone is injured on your property in your absence, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Homeowner’s insurance for a secondary home can have different terms than your primary home’s insurance policy. How often the home is occupied can be a factor. Insurance for second homes can be written on a “named perils” basis, which means the policy covers losses for situations described in the policy such as lightning, explosion, theft or smoke damage. To learn more, visit the  National Association of Insurance Commissioners  website.
• Consider travel insurance.  Snowbirds “are trying to get away from the snow but on occasion may get caught in it,” says Matt Popowski, a spokesperson for Allianz, a travel and specialty insurance company. Travel insurance , depending on the policy, can cover weather cancellations, nonrefundable tickets, change fees, and delayed or lost baggage. It can also include hurricane coverage for situations such as mandatory evacuations.

Harriet Edleson is a financial journalist who has written for  The New York Times,   The Washington Post  and   MarketWatch.

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8 Tips to Set Up a Snowbird Lifestyle

Here’s how to permanently avoid winter in retirement.

iStockPhoto

You will never have to shovel snow again if you head someplace warmer for the winter.

Each year, many people migrate from colder regions of the United States and Canada to sunny locations in Florida, Arizona and other sunbelt states. To these snowbirds, seasonal migration offers the best of both worlds – an opportunity to maintain ties to family, friends and familiar places, while also enjoying a change of scenery and an escape from cold, wintery weather . While there are many advantages to being a snowbird, there are also challenges and additional expenses to consider before you start packing.

[See: Best Places for Snowbirds to Retire .]

Cost. Your winter location can be a smaller house, a condo or even a mobile home. In addition to the cost of buying a second home, you need to budget for the cost of appliances, dishes and furniture. You'll need to insure both homes, and insurance rates may increase considerably for a home that you leave empty for extended periods of time.

You can rent a home or apartment for several months. This affords you the opportunity to spend your winter in a different place each year. If you buy or rent, don't forget to budget for travel costs, especially if you might fly back home occasionally for a special occasion or emergency. If you plan to fly to your sunny destination , you'll probably need to rent a car.

You can own a recreational vehicle, which makes it easier to transport your clothing, pets and other possessions. You will also have the freedom to stay in different places, and you can use your RV for other travel throughout the year. RVs run the gamut from half-million-dollar mansions on wheels to small travel trailers. If you opt for a travel trailer, you will need a vehicle that is muscular enough to tow it. There's also the cost of a campsite or a space rented in an RV park.

Taxes. You may pay more in taxes. If you own your snowbird home, you will need to pay property taxes in both places. Depending on how much time you reside in your new state, you may end up paying income taxes in two states. States have different rules on residency and on estate and inheritance taxes. If you don't plan to return home before April 15, you'll need to bring all your income tax paperwork with you and hope you haven't forgotten anything.

[See: 10 Low-Tax Places to Retire .]

Mail. You can use e-mail and auto-pay for most of your communication and bill-paying needs, but there will still be a few items you will receive via traditional mail. There are several options for forwarding mail, including USPS forwarding, third-party mail forwarding services and having a neighbor or relative forward mail to you in batches. None of these are perfect. The best option for you depends upon whether you will be staying at the same destination or moving from place to place. Some RV parks will not accept mail intended for temporary visitors, in which case you will need to use a post office general delivery address.

Utilities. You may not want to pay for cable, internet and phone service during the months you don't live in your primary residence or your snowbird residence, but stopping and starting service can be tricky.

Home maintenance. If you can find someone you trust to housesit for you or at least stop by and check on your house regularly, you can avoid some problems, but there are others you will still need to consider. If you live in an area that gets very cold in winter, you need to keep your heat on at a reduced temperature to keep your pipes from freezing and bursting , or hire a plumber to drain all your pipes and turn the water off at the source. Unplug every appliance you can, which may mean emptying your refrigerator and freezer. If your community or your home owners' association requires you to shovel snow, you'll have to arrange for someone to do that. Similarly, you may need to arrange for people to mow grass, maintain pool chemicals, water plants and control weeds.

Pets. You can probably take your dogs or cats with you, although that may limit the selection of places you can rent. If you have other pets such as birds, fish, or turtles, you will need to have someone visit your home often or find people who are willing to take them and provide foster care while you're gone.

Newspapers. You should discontinue your newspaper delivery while you're gone, but you will need to ask a neighbor to remove those unwanted flyers and free community papers that get tossed onto your driveway whether you want them or not.

Medical care. If you are over 65 and on Medicare , you should be able to obtain medical care wherever you go within the United States. If you use private health insurance, you will need to research whether there are doctors and hospitals at your destination that will be covered by your health care network. You'll need to take your full medical records with you, including prescriptions you take, or see if your primary physician will share your medical records with a doctor at your snowbird destination. Think about how you will obtain prescription refills, especially if you use a mail-order pharmacy that ships three-month supplies automatically.

[See: 10 Retirement Hot Spots in the U.S. ]

There's nothing on this list that isn't do-able, especially in today's electronically connected world. Many people migrate seasonally and have done so for many years. But enjoying a successful snowbird lifestyle is much more involved than simply going on a long vacation.

Dave Hughes is the founder of Retire Fabulously .

Tags: moving , weather , personal finance , Travel , retirement , money

About On Retirement

Retirement planning ideas and advice.

Contributors have expertise in areas ranging from personal finance to retirement lifestyles, and include Live and Invest Overseas, Good Financial Cents, The Money-Guy Show, Retire Before Dad, Social Security Teacher, My Lifestyle Career, Retire Fabulously, The Dough Roller, and Sightings at 60.

Edited by Emily Brandon .

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Snowbird Lifestyle for Beginners Complete Guide

Every year, more and more people move down south to escape the cold, and who could blame them? Believe it or not,  nearly a million snowbirds  head to the Sunshine State every winter, and you could be one of them!

If you’re planning on long-term travel this winter, there’s a lot that you need to prepare for. Luckily, we can make that easy for you! Here’s what you need to know about preparing for this year’s snowbird lifestyle.

What is the Snowbird Lifestyle?

Snowbirds are the people who live in colder climates within North America and choose to head south for the winter, much like the birds. Typical examples are people migrating from Canada to the Caribbean or New England to Florida.

This is a common practice for retirees or adults who work remotely as they grow tired of the harsh winters in the north. Many people choose this lifestyle because they still have friends, family, or other ties to an area in the north but still want to experience the sun all year round.

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Snowbirds vs. Snowflakes: Understanding the Differences

As we cozy up in our winter gear, two terms often flutter around conversations: “snowbirds” and “snowflakes.” Though they share a wintry theme, these terms have distinct meanings, especially when it comes to seasonal migration. In this section, we’ll explore the unique lifestyles and choices of snowbirds and snowflakes.

What is a Snowbird?

Definition: A “snowbird” is typically an older individual who migrates from the colder northern parts of North America to warmer southern areas during the winter. Think of them as migratory birds seeking a seasonal refuge from the frosty temperatures.

Lifestyle: Snowbirds often have a second home or rent a place in a warmer location. They’re usually retirees with the flexibility to live in two places throughout the year. Their lifestyle is marked by an annual rhythm – north in the summer, south in the winter.

Activities: Snowbirds often engage in leisure activities that their temporary southern homes offer. Golfing, beach walks, and social events in active communities are common. It’s not just about escaping the cold; it’s about embracing a warmer, often more leisurely lifestyle.

What is a Snowflake?

Definition: In contrast, a “snowflake” is generally a younger person who also seeks a respite from the cold. These are often working individuals or families who take shorter, more temporary trips to warmer climates.

Lifestyle Differences: Snowflakes might blend remote work with their time away, ensuring they stay connected and productive. Their migration is less about a seasonal shift and more about a short-term change in scenery or a brief escape from the winter.

Activities: Snowflakes might be more adventurous, engaging in winter sports in warmer climates or exploring new cultural experiences. Their stays are usually packed with activities that are both recreational and enriching.

Key Differences

Duration of Stay: The most notable difference is the duration. Snowbirds typically stay for the entire winter season, while snowflakes opt for shorter stays – a few weeks to a month.

Reasons for Migration: Snowbirds often seek a consistent, warmer climate to avoid the winter, while snowflakes seek a temporary change or a balance between work and leisure.

Demographics: Generally, snowbirds are retirees enjoying their freedom, while snowflakes are younger, often balancing their escape with other responsibilities.

Perks of Embracing the Snowbird Lifestyle

While the snowbird lifestyle involves considerable planning and adjustment, it comes with a host of benefits that make it an appealing choice for many. Here are some of the key perks of heading south for the winter:

Escape from Harsh Winters

One of the most apparent benefits of being a snowbird is avoiding the harsh, cold winters of the north. Swapping snow and ice for sunshine and mild temperatures can have a significant positive impact on both physical health and mental well-being.

Enjoyment of Diverse Cultures and Locations

Snowbirds have the unique opportunity to experience different cultures and environments. Whether it’s the vibrant beach communities of Florida or the serene deserts of Arizona, each destination offers unique experiences and local customs.

Increased Social Opportunities

Many snowbird destinations boast active communities with social events, clubs, and gatherings. This can be especially beneficial for retirees looking to engage with peers and make new friends in a lively, social setting.

Health and Wellness Benefits

Warmer climates often encourage outdoor activities, such as golfing, walking, swimming, and tennis, which are excellent for maintaining physical health. Additionally, the sunshine and warmer weather can be plentiful for mental health, reducing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Potential for Lower Living Costs

In some cases, living in a southern state during the winter can be more cost-effective than staying in the north, especially if heating a home in a colder climate is high.

Flexibility and Freedom

The snowbird lifestyle offers a unique sense of freedom and flexibility, especially for retirees. The ability to travel, explore new places, and break the routine of everyday life can be incredibly liberating.

Opportunity for Family Visits

For those with family or friends in warmer climates, being a snowbird provides an excellent opportunity to spend time with loved ones during the winter months.

Top Locations Snowbirds Travel To for Winter

• Florida: Florida has a large number of snowbirds, thanks to its warm temperatures and abundance of recreational opportunities. Places like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, and Tampa are particularly popular.
• Arizona: Arizona is another popular destination for snowbirds, with cities like Phoenix and Tucson being favorites. The state’s dry and sunny climate makes it an attractive option for those looking to escape the cold and snow.
• California: California is known for its mild winter weather and has several popular snowbird destinations, such as San Diego and Los Angeles.
• Texas: Texas is another popular destination for snowbirds, with cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi being favorites. The state’s mild winters and abundant outdoor recreational activities make it an attractive option.
• Nevada: Nevada is known for its desert climate, which makes it a popular winter destination for snowbirds. Las Vegas, Reno, and Lake Tahoe are all popular options.
• Mexico and Caribbean: Mexico and the Caribbean are also popular destinations for Snowbirds to escape the cold and enjoy some warm weather and perhaps good golf courses, beaches, and culture.
• These are some of the most popular locations, but there are plenty of other destinations for snowbirds to choose from, depending on their individual preferences and priorities.

Checklist to Winterize Your Home Before You Go

Now, if you rent out your home for winter, you may not need to winterize your home. However, finding the right tenants during this time of year is difficult, and finding a solution for managing the property is even more challenging.

Assuming you are leaving your home uninhabited, it’s very important that you prepare your house for winter for peace of mind,  saving money on utilities  and preventing a disaster from happening while you are away. Here is a quick checklist to get started.

1. Protect Your Water

Shut the water off in your home before leaving to prevent your pipes from freezing. This simple step could save you a fortune in damages. You should also turn off your water heater and drain your pipes by running the sink for a moment after shutting off the water.

A frozen pipe or a damaged water heater will cost thousands of dollars in repairs. Leaving your water heater on will not only bring it closer to its end, but it will also run up your utility bill while you are away.

Just in case there is leftover water in your pipes, it wouldn’t hurt to grab a few insulation tubes to wrap your most vulnerable pipes, especially within 5 feet of your foundation or the ones outside your house.

2. Prepare Your Fireplace

It’s very important that you close the fireplace flue before you leave, which you can  do yourself . If possible, you should also consider hiring a chimney sweep. This will help to prevent heat loss and buildup in your chimney.

It also wouldn’t hurt to place a wire mesh over the top of your chimney to prevent pests from taking over, especially if you don’t get the debris out of your chimney.

3. Set the Thermostat

It would be best to keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F (13°C) to prevent your most delicate systems from freezing over while you are away. This will protect your pipes inside your home and any wood materials from taking too much damage in extreme conditions without costing too much for heating.

4. Prevent Mold

Leave the doors to your dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances open to prevent mold from growing in these moist, enclosed environments. This is an easy step that can save you some serious money.

It would be best if you also left all interior doors open. This will allow for better airflow throughout your house, which can prevent mold. It will also allow your heat to reach every area within your home.

5. Time to Unplug

Unplug all of your appliances, including your refrigerator. If you’re leaving for several months, it’s time to empty the fridge and freezer and save yourself some money on electric bills.

Unplug and remove your air conditioners, even if you won’t return until it’s warm. This is an easy way for heat to escape your house during the winter months, which will run up your utility bill.

6. Move Outdoor Supplies Inside

Your patio furniture, outdoor equipment, and any appliances that are outside should be moved to an indoor location for safekeeping. Garden hoses should be emptied and moved inside, along with any irrigation systems.

Outdoor furniture should be cleaned thoroughly and moved away from the elements. A shed or a barn will be fine, but a garage or basement will be better, as they tend to have better insulation.

Lawnmowers, weedwhackers, leaf blowers, and other outdoor appliances that run on gas need to be removed from their existing gas (do not dump it on your lawn) and stored in a shed or other indoor space.

7. Seal Air Leaks

This is a one-time fix that, if you haven’t already done it, will save you a lot of money. Get a door stopper for our exterior doors, use insulation caulk around your windows (you can hire a professional to do this), make sure that windows are locked tight, and try to close any holes that you find.

This will save you more money than you may realize. Anywhere from 10% to 50% of heat loss  comes from air leaks around windows and doors, so if you’re paying for your thermostat to keep your home from freezing over, don’t overpay.

8. Prevent Pests

Closing those holes along the side of your home will prevent pests from getting in. This is a serious problem during the colder months, as mice and rats seek warmer shelter. Please don’t make your home into a haven for them before you leave, or you could be coming back to a serious problem.

Setting mouse traps, filling holes with steel wool, and laying mothballs in areas where they would be most likely to nest will go a long way. Mothballs work well on rodents, as they hate the smell of peppermint.

Also, avoid leaving any nesting materials out for them. Throw away old newspapers, keep clothes hung up, and don’t leave  any  food out during your stay. If you follow those steps, you should be in the clear!

9. Get Inspected

Inspect your heating system and other systems before you go to ensure they are working optimally and don’t pose any hazards. It wouldn’t hurt to get your roof inspected just to be safe, as the excess weight from heavy snow can cause very costly damage.

Look around for dead or dying trees close to your valuable items, like your home or your car, and remove them or their limbs in case of a storm.

If you’re worried about your roof, hire somebody or ask a loved one to give it a rake a couple of times during the peak of winter. It could save you thousands. If you have a neighbor or a loved one checking in periodically, ask them to look around the house for anything unusual, including smells, damage, or anything else.

Other Logistical Planning

Of course, this lifestyle doesn’t come without sacrifice, but it has plenty of benefits. Not everybody loves the snow, and many choose to spend their golden years in the sun. However, there are some important things to check off your list before you head south for the winter.

Change of Address

It’s important that you change your address with the post office if you’re going to be living away from home for several months. You can have a relative check your mail if you need to, but if you receive important and time-sensitive mail, you will want immediate access to it.

If you are staying in the US, it’s easy to forward your mail or change your address just by  filling out a form  with the USPS.

If you have any other deliveries outside the USPS, don’t forget to change them, especially for necessities like prescription medications. If you have regular deliveries from a private company, be sure to cancel them.

Is there any subscription you receive that is location-specific? Save yourself some money by canceling or pausing it. If you love receiving a copy of  The Globe  or  The Herald , either try to access your subscription online or put a hold on it.

Travel insurance is an excellent idea for a trip that is set to last a week or two, but it may not be feasible for a long-term stay. Talk to your insurance provider about options for a long-term stay.

More importantly, if your health insurance is tied to your state or country, you may find it difficult to get coverage. It’s important to contact your insurance provider and ask questions about your coverage before you go, as this is a common concern for snowbirds.

It is also an excellent idea to let your homeowner’s insurance provider know about your travel plans and your car insurance provider . If you are leaving your cars behind for several months, they may not need coverage.

While Massachusetts residents heading to Florida can stay for as long as they like, Canadian snowbirds might face a different challenge. This will also go for anybody traveling to Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere outside their home country.

The longest that a Canadian snowbird can stay in Florida is for up to 6 months with either a B1 or B2 visa, and you will have to check the standing for other countries in which you intend to visit or reside.

It’s best to apply for these visas as far in advance as possible and let the country where you will be residing know your plans. This includes where you’ll be staying, what you will be doing, and when you intend to leave. The more upfront you are, the easier the process will be.

If your passport expires within your stay, you should fill out a renewal application as far ahead in advance as possible to avoid any delays. The passport system has been backed up this year, so give yourself plenty of time in order to avoid complications later.

Plan for Your Belongings

Are you taking everything with you on a flight? Make sure that you weigh your bags and that you can bring them on the plane. Alternatively, make arrangements to ship or move your belongings down with you.

Whether you’re leaving for 2 months or 6 months, you’re going to need a lot of stuff. Is your lodging situation already furnished? Do you need movers? These are important questions to figure out as far in advance as possible.

If you are leaving the majority of your valuables at home, make sure that you have somebody check on your house from time to time, let your neighbors know about your travel plans, and, if possible, install an alarm system just in case. That extra peace of mind will help you a lot during your time away!

Whether or not you choose an alarm system, double-check that your windows and doors are locked, and your blinds are down, and upgrade your locking system as you see fit.

Enjoy The Sun!

Whether you’re a snowbird or a snowflake or just dreaming of being one, each lifestyle offers its unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and seasonal change. From the leisurely pace of a snowbird’s winter retreat to the brisk, activity-packed escapes of snowflakes, these migrations add a fascinating layer to our winter narratives.

Now that you have your checklist to prepare for the snowbird lifestyle, you’re good to go! Make sure that you do your diligence, protect your home, and rest assured that it’ll be there for you when you return! Stay up to date with our latest news, and feel free to contact us with any questions!

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Travel Tips for snowbirds returning to Canada

The Canada Border Services Agency and the Canadian Snowbird Association are encouraging Canadians who have spent the winter abroad to plan ahead for a smooth return to Canada this spring.

These are the top travel tips to know before arriving at the border:

Have your  travel documents  handy.  Whether travelling by land, air or water, you can help speed up processing times by coming prepared with your travel documents.

Driving home? Plan ahead and check  border wait times . You can avoid waiting in line by planning your drive to cross the border during non-peak hours such as early morning.

Flying home? Save time with  Advance Declaration .  Download the application on your smart phone to make your customs declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival into Canada at the Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Winnipeg, Halifax, Québec City, Ottawa, Billy Bishop, Calgary and Edmonton international airports. Data shows that using this tool can reduce time at a kiosk or eGate by up to 50%.

Be prepared to declare your   goods upon entry into Canada.   Gather your receipts for goods purchased or received while away before you travel and keep them readily available. Visit  I Declare: A guide for residents returning to Canada  and use the  CBSA duty and taxes estimator  to help calculate your monies owed. You should be aware of everything that is inside your vehicle as you are responsible for its contents.

Know your exemptions from duties and taxes .  If you have been outside of Canada seven days or more, you can import goods worth up to CAN$800, duty-and tax-free. Within this personal exemption, you are allowed to bring back duty and tax free:

• Two bottles of wine (1.5 litres total), or one large standard bottle of liquor (1.14 litres),  or  approximately 24 cans or bottles (355 ml each) of beer (8.5 litres total); and,
• 200 cigarettes, and 50 cigars, and 200 grams manufactured tobacco,  and  200 tobacco sticks. The packages must be stamped “duty paid,” as you would find them at a duty-free store.

Travelling with medication?  If you have a prescription for a narcotic or controlled drug, you must declare it and ensure its in properly labelled container. Learn more about  your responsibilities .

Travelling with firearms?  If you are travelling with a firearm be sure to check the  rules on importing firearms  and other  restricted and prohibited goods  before your departure. Better yet, consider leaving the firearm at home.

Importing a vehicle ?   If you are a   resident of Canada you can  temporarily import a vehicle  that is licensed and registered in the United States, however, the duty and tax implications, the length of time the vehicle can remain in Canada, and how the vehicle can be used in Canada may differ. If you are permanently importing a vehicle from the U.S. or Mexico, visit Canada’s  Registrar of Imported Vehicles  website prior to arriving at the border for details about vehicle eligibility and the overall process, including the necessary duties and taxes.

Bringing poultry across the border?  Any poultry products you wish to bring into Canada must be for human consumption, retail packaged and labelled as a “Product of the USA.” Homemade food or leftovers containing poultry cannot be brought into Canada. Check the latest  Information for travellers: Restrictions on poultry and birds from the United States  before bringing these products across the border.

T ravelling  with a pet or importing an animal  into Canada?  You will need the right paperwork at the border to meet Canada’s import requirements.

Not sure? Ask a border officer.  The best thing you can do to save time is to be open and honest with the CBSA officer. Be sure to follow all instructions they provide to you. If you are not sure about what to declare, don’t hesitate to ask. Our officers are here to help!

Quick facts

• The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) supports national security and public safety priorities by facilitating the free flow of persons and goods, including animals and plants.
• The Canadian Snowbird Association is a not-for-profit advocacy organization for travelling Canadians, representing more than 115,000 members.

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6 Tips for First-Time Snowbirds

Most campgrounds allow seasonal travelers to receive mail while staying there. If you’re going to be at one specific location all winter, your mail solution may be as simple as signing up for mail forwarding at your local post office–It’s a convenient option worth taking advantage of. You can also pay a small monthly fee to have your email filtered and forwarded to you, so you can weed out the junk. The Good Sam mail forwarding service is as little as $9 a month.

If you will be traveling to more than one location, you may want to use a service that will hold your mail instead. With this type of service, the mail is held until you pick it up or it can be forwarded upon request once you’re settled in a campground for a longer period of time.

Plan For Health Care & Medicine

Check with your physician in advance for any prescriptions that you will need to be refilled while you are away. In most cases, you will be able to get enough refills ordered that you can just have them filled as needed at chain pharmacies like Walgreens or CVS. However, some controlled medications will require you to physically see a doctor at your seasonal location.

Make a list of your doctor’s and dentist’s contact information as well as health insurance details in case you need to contact them while you are away. Keep this handy in your RV while you’re on the road.

Check your health insurance plan to verify portability. You will want to know in advance what the rules are for any required medical care at your seasonal location.

Manage Your Money

Consider using automatic bill payment for recurring expenses while you’re out and about. That way you don’t have to remember to pay it on time every pay period. Also, let your bank and credit card companies know you’ll be traveling so they won’t flag any purchases you make on the road that appears to be outside of your normal spending habits.

Another good thing to do is to sign up for paper-free statements so you can access them online and have one less piece of monthly mail to worry about. You want to be able to easily see where your money is going while on the road or off the grid.

Prepare Your Primary Residence

You want your home to be just the way you left it once you return. Following the easy tips below, you can ensure you’ll come home to a beautiful home once the weather warms up.

• Install motion-sensitive exterior lights and interior lights on timers and set them to come on at varying times to create the appearance of someone being home and to discourage prowlers. This is one of the best ways to deter would-be thieves.
• Stop newspaper delivery. You’re not going to be around to read the paper anyway. Consider subscribing to an online version you can read anywhere.
• Arrange for snow removal to avoid drifting and pile-ups.
• Perform routine maintenance like having your heating system inspected and serviced.
• Clean your home thoroughly to help discourage pests from moving in while you’re away. Also, be sure to inspect your home for openings that animals could use to enter and address them accordingly.
• Store valuables that you are not taking with you in a safe deposit box or other secure offsite location.
• Ask a trusted neighbor or family member to keep an eye out for your home. If they’re heading south too, consider hiring a property management service.

Give the RV a Thorough Inspection

If you haven’t taken your RV out in a while, you’ll want to take a little time to get it ready for the long trip. Here are some things that you should definitely take a look at before heading out.

• Make sure your batteries are fully charged your batteries and have the correct water level. If they were removed for storage make sure they are reconnected correctly.
• Check the tires . Inspect them for any signs of damage and ensure they are inflated to the recommended PSI.
• Sanitize your water system and check for leaks.
• Connect your RV to power and test all your appliances .
• If your RV is motorized, follow the vehicle preparation steps below.

Don’t Forget Tow Vehicle & Driving Considerations

If your RV is motorized, or you have a tow vehicle that you don’t regularly drive and maintain, then you need to take the time to ensure that the vehicle is in tip-top condition before hitting the road. The last thing you want is to set off for a relaxing time in your RV only to end up stranded on the side of the road on the way to your warmer destination.

• Get a tune-up to be prepared for the lengthy drive.
• Check all fluid levels (transmission, engine coolant, oil, windshield washer, and brake fluid).
• Have tires, brakes, and axle bearings inspected on your RV and fixed, if necessary.
• Make sure your registration and insurance are up to date and won’t expire while you’re away. Keep them in a place where they’re easily accessible inside the RV in the event you need to reference them.
• Consider joining a roadside assistance program, like Good Sam , for any unexpected problems that pop up.
• Make sure you know where you’re going. Even if you have a GPS to help you with directions, having maps as a backup doesn’t hurt. Speaking of a GPS, be sure it is the RV type so you can avoid low clearance bridges.
• Don’t overdo it when driving. Take frequent breaks, and take your time. A well-rested and alert driver is a safe driver.

Is there anything we left out that you think should be placed on the snowbird preparation checklist? Share your best tips and tricks to help others in the comments below.

• Comment (7)

If heading for Florida make reservations well in advance. First year full timing, 9 months to a year and still missed some of the better spots. Plan ahead!

Know the driving laws in the states that you are traveling!

Before you leave home, shut off the water ! And the water heater. A leak could destroy your home while you are gone.

Love Camping World and Good Sam. Have the App on my Phone!!

(1) Watch the weather carefully along your route especially if you are traveling to the southwest. Determine which alternate routes you can use if storms develop. (2) Have an app such as Good Sam on your phone. You can call ahead for a reservation as soon as you’re certain of your daily destination.

Great point!

Wouldn’t hurt to winterize the house, that way if heat would go out during winter, wouldn’t be coming home to frozen broken plumbing.

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Expert Tips for Snowbirds to Ensure Stress-Free Travel

Jill wykes – editor, snowbirdadvisor.ca.

Find more travel tips for Canadian snowbirds at SnowbirdAdvisor.ca !

We know that snowbirds do a lot of travelling – both over the winter and at other times of the year. But are you getting the best advice for all of your travel needs? 

To help provide you with insider travel tips, Snowbird Advisor asked our travel partner, Merit Travel , to share their expertise and provide their top tips for planning and booking snowbird and non-snowbird travel, including how to optimize your travel, get the most value, save money and avoid potential problems and pitfalls.

It’s also important to understand the benefits of working with a travel advisor to plan and book your travel, as they will be there to help you before, during and after your trip to give advice and step in should anything unforeseen happen. They also have access to fares, products and information that you don’t when you are just searching online.

Plan with purpose

The key to stress-free travel begins with careful planning. Whether you are planning your next snowbird winter getaway or a vacation over the summer, it’s helpful to clarify what is important to you and what your priorities are before choosing a destination – or even a hotel. 

It is equally important to discuss this with whoever you are travelling with to find out if you are even on the same page – and if you are not, where and how you will compromise so everyone will enjoy the trip.

If you are planning a trip to Europe, for example, do you want to travel by rental car, motor coach or train to get around? Or perhaps a river cruise is the best way to explore Europe for you? 

How important are galleries, museums and historical sites? Is food a big part of the reason you travel? Or is it wine? Are you looking for a touch of adventure when you travel? 

And last but not least, what is your budget? This is an essential part of travel planning.

You should always have this discussion before involving a travel advisor. Getting your priorities clear will ensure nobody is disappointed with the outcome and also help the advisor understand what you are looking for.

Tap into expertise

Today, many people simply search online for their travel information, and while you can certainly learn a lot this way, planning and booking travel can be complex, depending on the type of travel you are doing. Why navigate the intricacies of travel planning alone when you can enlist the help of a knowledgeable travel advisor?

Travel advisors are well-travelled themselves and have access to insider information on flights, cruises, destinations, attractions and deals – some of which you will not find yourself. They are also up to date on visa requirements and other requirements such as vaccinations.

From securing the best deals to providing insider tips on hidden gems and must-see attractions, travel advisors are working for you to ensure you get exactly what you are looking for – and at the best possible price. 

Travel advisors are also a tremendous help when things go wrong – if your hotel can’t find your booking or your flight is cancelled, who are you going to call? In addition, if any other problems arise during your trip, your travel advisor can usually help you navigate the complaint process.

Timing is everything

When it comes to booking your travel arrangements, timing can be crucial to get the best pricing or avoid crowds.

Whether you’re planning a river cruise, an ocean cruise, a European tour, an exotic escape, or a snowbird long stay, knowing when to book – and when to travel – can make all the difference.

Booking well ahead is important for certain types of travel that often gets sold out early – such as river cruise prime dates and itineraries, or luxury and exotic tours. By booking early you get your choice of dates and room or cabin type, etc…  

It is also critical for snowbird winter escapes as these get booked as far as a year in advance.

Travelling during shoulder season – or off-season – can save you thousands and help you avoid crowds. 

Prepare for the unexpected

While we always hope for smooth sailing, it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected. From flight delays to unexpected weather events, travel disruptions can happen when you least expect them.

Having a travel advisor who you can call when things go wrong is invaluable. Your travel advisor can contact airlines directly to assist you in re-booking or finding lost luggage.

It is also essential that you always purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy to provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Be a savvy packer

Today, many people try to travel with carry-on luggage only to avoid the risk of lost luggage and baggage fees and be able to leave the airport more quickly. However, some trips – especially longer or cold weather ones – make carry-on luggage an impossibility.

Start by making a packing list and gathering essential items such as clothing, toiletries, reading material and travel documents.

Layering is a great strategy to avoid having to pack or carry a bulky coat or jacket.

If you are going on a river or ocean cruise or staying somewhere that has laundry facilities or services – consider taking fewer items as you will be able to have some of your clothing laundered.

Stay flexible

While having a well-planned itinerary is essential, it is also important to leave some downtime and room in your itinerary – and to stay flexible in the event that unexpected opportunities or roadblocks arise.

Some of the best travel memories are made when the unexpected happens or even when things go wrong. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.

The bottom line

By following these tips and working with an experienced travel advisor, such as the experts at Merit Travel – one of Canada’s largest travel companies specializing in leisure and luxury travel – you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your next trip with confidence and peace of mind.

This article originally appeared on Snowbird Advisor here Expert Tips for Snowbirds to Ensure Stress Free Travel

About SnowbirdAdvisor.ca

SnowbirdAdvisor.ca  is an essential one-stop resource for every Canadian snowbird, covering topics like travel, insurance, finances, accommodations, real estate, shipping your car, tax and legal issues and everything in between. You can also  sign up for a free membership  to get access to exclusive snowbird tips, tools, offers, events and more.

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Snowbirding With Your RV

• November 8, 2022

What does it mean to call someone a snowbird?

The term “snowbird” is used to describe travelers that like to migrate to a warmer climate for the winter months. Often, snowbirds consist of active adults and pairs of retirees who tend to start their travels between November and January. Several well-established snowbirds will stay up to three months at their desired destination, but newer snowbirds might only stay one to two months. Knowing what to pack and where the best snowbird destination and campgrounds are are just two of the many things that go into making your winter getaway a success.

Check out our list of tips and tricks on how to be the best snowbird you can be!

Getting Started Out As A Snowbird

Many successful snowbirds, especially those who choose to stay long-term, learn to fall in love with their adoptive state. When you visit the same location year after year, you create a social network and become integrated into the community. This is how several snowbirds start their progress toward an official permanent relocation. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and say hello to fellow travelers! The RV community is a friendly one and as you first start out in the lifestyle, you will be grateful for all the new connections and friendships formed.

Wondering if snowbirding is a good lifestyle for you? Start out slow! Beginners will often rent first or stay with friends or family to test out the ways before deciding to purchase a camper equipped for extended stays or full-time living. Contact a local real estate agent who will be happy to assist you in finding a short-term rental to test out the area with a condo, apartment or home rental before setting roots. You may also have luck looking into long-term RV rentals allowing you to still enjoy the flexibility of RV travel.

Popular Snowbird Destinations

One of the most popular snowbird destinations is the Sunshine State. Florida has been a retirement destination for years which is reflected by the number of active adult communities spread across the state. Several people choose to travel to Florida for the beaches, affordable housing options, and comfortable coastal climate. Florida’s east coast has the highest concentration of long-stay properties and is decorated with several miles of gorgeous beaches. You are also relatively close to Miami and Orlando which means there is an abundance of activities to do and places to see. Florida’s west coast is also known as the “Nature Coast” and is full of wetlands and bayous. The central part of the state has over 37 golf courses but remains one of the most popular vacation destinations due to its proximity to Walt Disney World .

Another popular destination is Arizona which allows travelers to enjoy the resort-style golf courses and unique scenic landscapes. Phoenix offers snowbirds access to fantastic restaurants and entertainment and is positioned perfectly for quick trips to California, Nevada, or New Mexico. Scottsdale is one of the biggest resort areas in the USA and has championship golf courses, upscale restaurants, and relaxing spas. Glendale, AZ is home to Camelback Ranch , the Chicago White Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers spring training facilities making it a dream destination for any sports enthusiast.

A few other states that rank amongst the most popular snowbird destinations and campgrounds include California, Nevada, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Before you embark on your journey be sure to research the best places to stay and make reservations early!

Snowbird Checklist

Are you ready to say goodbye to your winter coat and hello to warm, beautiful weather? Whether it is your first trip as a snowbird or your 100th, knowing what to pack can be overwhelming.

What should I pack?

• Important documents such as your passport, ID, health insurance, and car insurance policy information
• Necessary medical information such as your prescriptions. Tip: If you have medications you take daily, be sure you find a pharmacy at your travel destination to be able to get them filled.
• Clothing layers in case the weather shifts and becomes cold or rainy
• Pet supplies such as food, medications, and leashes if traveling with furry friends
• Outdoor gear specific to your destination such as hiking and sporting equipment
• Electronics and any work/office supplies for individuals who may work remote Tip: Don’t forget chargers and adapters!

If you are renting an RV or property, be sure to double-check beforehand that all your desired food prep and bathroom appliances, toiletries, and accommodations such as sheets, towels and blankets are provided.

For more RV travel tips and road trip resources, read more from the ROUTE 66 RV Network Blog now!

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Top Travel Tips for Single Snowbirds

Being single should never stop you from escaping the cold Canadian winters and enjoying the snowbird lifestyle, as many single snowbirds do this every year.

However, being single might influence where you choose to go, how you get there, the type of community you chose to live in and what amenities and activities you will be seeking.

Whether you are single by choice or you have lost your partner, it’s important to know that there are many others like you who are enjoying their winters somewhere warm.

In assessing your needs, it’s always helpful to ask yourself a few basic questions:

• How independent are you?
• How often do you want company?
• Do you enjoy having a community or do you prefer to be on your own?
• Which activities do you want to participate in?

Answering these questions will help you determine what kind of lifestyle will suit you best when you’re looking for a winter destination and accommodations.

Another great option can be finding another single friend to travel with, which works well for some single snowbirds and has the added advantage of allowing you to split accommodation and food costs while you’re away. But you might want to try some shorter trips with this friend first to test the waters and make sure you are compatible living together.

Whether you decide to travel on your own or with a friend, here are our top tips for single snowbirds.

Beating loneliness – enemy number one

When you are single and older, loneliness can be your biggest problem. And being single can be particularly tough if you are recently single due to a divorce or death of a partner. 

We all know that too much loneliness and lack of social interaction is bad for our health. The question is, what’s the best way to combat loneliness?

Fortunately, the snowbird lifestyle offers lots of options for both men and women to stay active and get involved - you just have to be brave enough to take the first step!

Here are a few tips for keeping busy and finding new friends while you’re away for the winter:

• Local clubs and special interest groups: What are you interested in? Playing cards? Art? Reading?  Hiking? Nature? Find local clubs in your area and join up. Many popular snowbird destinations also have local snowbird clubs that arrange social activities and events, and some even have Canadian snowbird clubs!
• Golf, tennis & pickleball: If you enjoy golf, tennis or pickleball, it will be relatively easy to find partners and games. Many golf courses, tennis clubs and snowbird communities will even help you find someone to play with.
• Churches, synagogues and mosques usually offer a variety of social activities and are a great way to meet people and stay active, even if you’re not religious.
• Volunteering is also an excellent way to keep busy and meet new people. A good place to start is seeking out local charities, arts facilities, animal shelters, community centers and non-profit organizations, as they are always looking for volunteers.
• Take classes! You’re never too old to learn something new or to improve your knowledge. Lifelong learning is a popular activity among snowbirds, which makes it an ideal way to meet other snowbirds and people with similar interests It’s also a great way to keep your mind stimulated. Art, history, politics, cooking, crafts and bridge are just a few ideas.
• Friends & family: If you’ve rented a place with a spare bedroom or two, you can invite your friends and family to visit you during the winter. This is a great way to spend quality time with kids, grandkids and friends.

Choosing a Destination

Choosing a destination that will suit your needs and lifestyle is one of the first things you’re going to have to do. And if you’re new to the snowbird lifestyle, it's a good idea to check out multiple destinations your first few years to find a place that’s just right for you.

Single snowbirds might feel most comfortable in popular U.S. snowbird destinations like Florida, Arizona, California, Texas and Hawaii because of their close proximity to home, familiar culture, established snowbird communities and the ability to drive your car there or have it shipped or driven for you. 

But if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can join the growing number of snowbirds who spend time in exotic and international snowbird destinations like Mexico, Central America and Southern Europe.

Spending the winter on a cruise ship may not come to mind as an option - but it can be an excellent solution for single snowbirds. Cruises can go a long way towards reducing the loneliness factor because all your meals will be at a table with others and you’re guaranteed to meet people. Cruises also have non-stop activities available onboard as well as great fitness facilities, spas, etc… And of course, you’ll get to see a lot of new places along the way.

They’re also flexible so you don’t have to go for the whole winter - you can book a cabin on a so-called World Cruise for durations of 30, 45, 60 or up to 120 days.

When you add up all the costs of going away for an extended period, living on a ship can actually be quite competitive. This is especially true if you shop around and don’t pick the most expensive luxury line or the largest suite on the ship.

Accommodations

As a single snowbird, it’s a good idea to seek rental accommodations that offer a community environment with other individuals similar in age to yourself - whether it’s a country club, condo/apartment complex, RV resort or mobile home park. Being part of a community will help you avoid feeling too isolated (unless that’s what you are looking for) and provide you with more opportunities to meet other snowbirds with similar interests.

Condos, homes and rentals apartments

Depending on your destination, you may have options on the water, in golf and country club communities, in RV parks, mobile home communities or in regular neighbourhoods. Choosing the right accommodation will depend on a number of personal preferences including budget, size requirements and which activities and amenities are important to you.

If you are sharing with a friend, try to choose a place that gives you both some privacy when you need it - split plan condos are great for this, with bedrooms separated by the living area and two bathrooms.

Renting in an established community with amenities and a clubhouse means there will be lots of opportunities to get involved in activities and social events.

One thing is for certain - you can’t start looking for accommodation early enough. Many places get booked up a year in advance and even give a right of first refusal to the previous year’s tenants.

Make sure you read the rental agreement thoroughly and ask for references from your landlord – and check if your trip cancellation & interruption insurance covers rental deposits and payments should you have to cancel for health reasons.

Here are some other important rental accommodation tips for snowbirds that are applicable regardless of whether you’re single or not.

While the RV lifestyle isn’t for everyone, RV resorts can be an excellent choice for single snowbirds because they offer an instant community. Many RV resort residents return every year, allowing you to build long-term friendships. There are also endless arranged activities and lots of socializing where everyone is welcome. Being single is not a problem.

Having said that, single snowbirds may not love the idea of driving an RV on their own. For single snowbirds who like the RV resort lifestyle but don’t want to drive, some resorts have RV’s on location for you to rent or buy.

Mobile Home Communities

One of the more affordable accommodation types in the southern U.S. is mobile home communities, which can be found in many snowbird destinations and provide surprisingly spacious and comfortable accommodations.

In addition, these communities usually offer a number of recreational facilities, swimming pools and social events to help you meet people and find friends easily.

Getting To and From Your Destination

Many single snowbirds spending the winter in the southern U.S. will not feel comfortable making the long drive back and forth on their own – although some do. For those who don’t want to make the drive alone, there are other options.  

Of course, flying is the obvious one, but if you’d like to have your car in your winter destination without making the drive, there are also snowbird drive-away services and car shipping companies that can take your car to and from your U.S. winter destination for you.

If you prefer to fly to your destination, keep in mind you may need a rental car while there, depending on where you are going. Or, you might want to purchase a car if you have a permanent winter home.

The sooner you plan your dates and book your flights the better, especially if you want to use points. You can find tips on how to save on airfare here.

It’s important to be aware that travel medical insurance is a must for snowbirds, as the cost of emergency medical treatment outside Canada can be extremely high and lead to serious financial hardship if you don’t have the right coverage.

The Learning Centre on our sister website Snowbird Advisor Insurance offers a number of helpful snowbird travel insurance tips and articles to help you make smart travel insurance decisions, save money and avoid pitfalls.

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The Pros and Cons of a Snowbird Travel Lifestyle

The Pros of Being a Snowbird

Being a snowbird, which refers to individuals who travel from colder climates to warmer ones over the winter, offers several advantages that can increase how fulfilling and enjoyable one’s life can be.

One of the biggest benefits of being a snowbird is being constantly able to completely avoid harsh winter weather year after year. By moving to a warmer destination for a few months, people can avoid extremely cold temperatures, lots of snow, and icy conditions that can impede daily activities such as outdoor exercise which can directly reduce overall well-being. Instead, they can bask in the sunshine, enjoy warmer temperatures, and engage in outdoor activities all year round, helping snowbirds lead a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Another noteworthy advantage of being a snowbird is the opportunity to discover and enjoy new places and immerse oneself in different cultures. Snowbirds choose from a wide variety of destinations to spend their winters, such as Florida, Arizona, or even international cities like Mexico or the Caribbean. This allows them to experience new landscapes, culinary delights, traditions, and engage in local communities, broadening their horizons and creating memorable experiences.

Moreover, snowbirding provides an excellent chance to foster social connections and build a sense of community. Many popular snowbird destinations host communities specifically designed for winter residents, offering various amenities and organized social activities. These communities provide opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, make new friends, and establish strong bonds through shared interests and experiences.

Financially, being a snowbird can also be advantageous. For retirees or individuals with flexible work arrangements, moving to a warmer location during winter can help reduce heating costs associated with staying in colder climates. Additionally, some snowbird destinations may offer lower living expenses, including housing costs and taxes, allowing individuals to make the most of their retirement savings or discretionary income.

Lastly, being a snowbird enables individuals to maintain a sense of freedom and flexibility. Rather than being tied down to a single location throughout the year, snowbirds can enjoy the best of both worlds by alternating between two different environments. This flexibility allows them to escape the monotony of routine, discover new hobbies, and maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Being a snowbird provides a myriad of benefits. From escaping winter’s harsh conditions and embracing a milder climate to exploring new destinations, fostering social connections, and enjoying financial advantages, the snowbird lifestyle offers a unique and enriching experience.

The Cons of Being a Snowbird

While being a snowbird can have many advantages, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks and challenges associated with this lifestyle. One significant con of being a snowbird is the cost involved. Having two houses, one in the colder climate and one in the warmer destination, can be financially burdensome. Owning or renting a second home means potentially doubling your expenses such as mortgage or rent payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and utility bills. These costs can add up quickly, especially for individuals on a fixed income or limited budget.

Another challenge of being a snowbird is the separation from family and friends. While enjoying the warmer climate, snowbirds may find themselves far away from their loved ones, missing out on important family events, gatherings, and holidays. The distance can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially for those who have strong ties and support systems in their permanent residence.

Healthcare can also be a concern for snowbirds. Access to quality healthcare services may differ between their primary residence and the winter destination. Snowbirds need to ensure they have appropriate health insurance coverage and understand the healthcare systems in both locations. In the event of a medical emergency, dealing with doctors that you aren’t used to can be both difficult and stressful.

Additionally, getting used to a completely new area, even for a few months, can be tough, especially for older people who have been used to the same town and home for many years. Snowbirds may experience a sense of confusion and may take time to adjust to the local customs, routines, and amenities in their winter towns. Finding reliable services, such as doctors, dentists, and other professionals, can require additional effort and research.

Lastly, the logistics of seasonal migration can be demanding. Preparing and organizing two homes for each transition can be time-consuming and overwhelming. It can be daunting to drive hundreds of miles each way, thankfully many snowbirds choose to ship their cars . Snowbirds need to arrange for property maintenance, secure their residences while away, and ensure a smooth transition between the two locations. The constant back-and-forth travel can also be tiring and may pose challenges, especially for individuals with mobility or health issues.

Being a snowbird also has its downsides. Financial costs, separation from loved ones, potential healthcare challenges, adjustment to new environments, and the logistical demands of seasonal migration are important considerations. It’s essential for individuals considering the snowbird lifestyle to weigh these negatives against the benefits and make an informed decision that aligns with their priorities and circumstances. In the end, it is up to you whether or not to vacation in warmer climates each winter!

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Snowbird Travels: What Is That?

Published by down beach author on march 23, 2024.

A snowbird is a term often used to describe retirees who migrate from the colder northern parts of North America to warmer southern locales during the winter. They are the wise ones who have perfected the art of avoiding the harsh, biting winter in favor of the balmier, sun-filled days in a warmer region. This unique lifestyle offers a plethora of benefits. If you’re considering snowbird life or just love escaping the cold winter months, here is the ultimate guide to snowbird travel.

Typically, snowbirds are retirees who now have the freedom and flexibility to relocate for several months throughout the year. These winter visitors embark on their journey south anywhere from early October to November and return north in the early spring when the weather worsens.

The Benefits of Being a Snowbird

One vital health benefit of being a snowbird is the escape from harsh winter weather. This is particularly advantageous for seniors, who are more susceptible to cold-related health issues like heart attacks. It is also important to take out travel insurance for seniors to protect yourself against health emergencies.

As a snowbird, you can bask in warmer temperatures, indulge in outdoor activities all year round, and avoid the hassles of snow and ice. This lifestyle shift can lead to a healthier and more active life.

Additionally, snowbirds can discover new places, immerse themselves in different cultures, and experience a variety of destinations, fostering social connections and creating memorable experiences.

Financially, being a snowbird can help reduce heating costs associated with staying in colder climates. It may offer lower living expenses, allowing individuals to maximize their retirement savings or discretionary income.

Lastly, being a snowbird provides a sense of freedom and flexibility, allowing individuals to alternate between different environments, discover new hobbies, and maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Popular Snowbird Destinations

Popular snowbird destinations cater to those seeking warmth and sunshine during winter. These destinations offer a variety of attractions, amenities, and activities that make them ideal for seasonal escapes. Here are some critical points about popular snowbird destinations based on the provided sources:

• Key West, Florida : Known for its miles of sandy beaches, unique sunset celebrations, vibrant entertainment, and tropical island vibe, Key West attracts snowbirds with its laid-back atmosphere and lively Duval Street.
• St. Augustine, Florida : Referred to as ‘the nation’s oldest city,’ St. Augustine offers a blend of history, beaches, museums, galleries, and access to caves, making it an attractive destination for snowbirds.
• Tucson, Arizona : With a rich history and plenty of sunshine, Tucson offers snowbirds a range of activities, such as museums, zoos, galleries, and access to caves.
• Sedona, Arizona : Known for its natural beauty, Sedona offers modern comforts, vibrant energy, art galleries, hiking trails, cultural events, and various attractions that appeal to snowbirds seeking an affordable yet enriching winter destination.
• San Diego, California , is a city with a laid-back West Coast vibe and a range of attractions that draw transplants seeking a sunny lifestyle.

Snowbird Travel Tips

Turning into a snowbird is no overnight journey. Planning is critical! It involves deciding where to go, preparing your northern home for your absence, and ensuring your destination residence is ready. 

Here are some tips:

Destination Selection: Choose a location based on preferred climate, recreational activities, or proximity to family and friends. It’s wise to try before buying – rent in your decided area for a season or two before setting up a permanent winter home.

Home Preparation: Ensure your home is secure during your time away. Inform your neighbors about your plans, stop mail delivery, or arrange for a neighbor to collect it, and ensure your home looks live-in to deter burglars.

Healthcare and Insurance: Health insurance is a significant concern, for example, you can consider a canadian snowbird travel insurance . Ensure you have insurance coverage in the location you’re heading to, especially for potential emergencies. Physicians in your chosen area should accept your health insurance.

Staying Connected: Staying in touch with family and friends back home is crucial. With modern technology, it’s easier than ever. You can arrange regular video calls or create a blog to share your travel experiences.

Becoming a snowbird means giving yourself the gift of the best of both worlds, bouncing between the familiarity and comfort of your primary residence and the novelty of a warmer winter locale. It is about maximizing your quality of life and crafting a lifestyle that suits your climate preferences, interests, and requirements.

The snowbird lifestyle is a fable of freedom – the freedom to chase warmer climes, meet new people, and explore and live life on your terms. As the snow starts to fall up north, may you spread your wings and fly south toward sunnier days! Happy snowbird travels!

By Chris Bates

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