Snow-birding. Should you or should you not?
As with all good things, the perks of snowbirding are indisputable but it’s got its cons to consider.
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[PART THREE ]
This is part three of a three part article on snow-birding.
To start from the beginning read the first part here
The term “snowbird” has been around for almost 100 years and was first used in 1923 to describe seasonal workers who moved south for the winter months. By 1980 however, it was more commonly used to describe the retired tourists who flocked to the south in the winter months. The latter definition stuck.
Snowbirds start to head south between November and January and often stay on until May. Often snowbirds wait until late December or early January to relocate so they don’t miss out on spending the holidays with their loved ones.
To learn more on snowbirding - first part here
Six simple steps to effective planning - second part here
These are some pros and cons that my husband and I mulled over before we started snowbirding on an annual basis. Take these into consideration but don’t forget to contextualize them to your life, your needs and goals:
Pros
- Bye bye harsh winters, hello summer sun
In milder climates you can enjoy outdoor recreation activities, such as golfing, boating, and hiking throughout the winter season. - An outdoorsy lifestyle
No more below-freezing temperatures, too much time indoors, and constantly removing snow, instead spend time outdoors enjoying your favorite activities, whether it involves visits to local small towns or excursions to state parks. - Find your (snow )tribe
In the months you spend away, new friends await. Year after year, you can reunite with friends from across the country and also meet new like-minded individuals.
Cons
- Planning is key
Whether you are a newbie or experienced snowbird, planning, packing and scheduling is inevitable and can be overwhelming.You have to make arrangements for accommodation, travel and daily needs in the secondary location while prepping your primary residence for winter without you. - Cost
Snowbirding can easily become expensive with cost of living, healthcare costs, etc. Active adults can take on part time or remote work but retirees must plan costs in relation to retirement income sources. - Finding the right vibe
Building a routine, meeting like-minded individuals and finding things to do in a new place can be challenging. If you opt to live in an active adult community then you have the advantage of partaking in activities designed to bring like-minded people together.
Retiring has a way of giving seniors some freedom that provides them with various ways of enjoying themselves. Snowbirding is one such option to experience picture-perfect Northern summers and the best of the south's mild winters -- hitting "Goldilocks" ranges of temperatures all year long!
