The ideal age to start exploring in your motorhome

Get out in your motorhome

Far from being a time to unwind and slow down, 52 ½ is the age Brits are most likely to regain their identity and begin exploring new interests and passions - ranging from travel to extreme sports. That’s according to a new study by the Freedom to Go campaign, exploring the views of 2,000 British 40-60 year olds.

Topping the list of new passions to pursue is exploring new areas of Britain, especially the coast, with a third of respondents stating this is what they enjoy doing most (27% and 30% respectively). Spending time with children and/or grandchildren (20%), rambling (21%) and trying new types of food and drink (15%) also ranked highly.

The benefits of following personal passions is clear. An overwhelming 86% of respondents say that pursuing their passions makes them feel more energetic and reinvigorated. For over a quarter (26%) rediscovering their interests has given them new found confidence, with 16% stating they feel ‘10 years younger’.

The study found that until 52 ½ home and work life took precedence. Over half of respondents (54%) say lack of money was the number one reason for not focusing on their interests before reaching this age. This was followed by, ‘always putting their children first’ for 40% of those surveyed and for almost a quarter (24%) work commitments were a significant factor.

The findings reveal that a lack of confidence has stopped many Brits in their 30s and 40s from pursuing their personal passions. This is a particular challenge for women; over 21% of women say that not having enough confidence has held them back in the past, compared to just 12% of men.

The study by Freedom to Go, a campaign promoting the lifestyle benefits of touring holidays, also found that taking to the road independently was a popular way to fulfill pent up passions. When asked if they would use a caravan or motorhome to tour and explore new areas of the UK, a overwhelming proportion – nearly 60% - said they loved the idea.

Jennifer Summers, Freedom to Go spokesperson said, “It’s fascinating to see how attitudes to hitting 50 have changed. The stereotype of a slow down, slippers on generation couldn’t be further from the truth. This study shows that for Brits in their 50s, hitting the road and gaining new experiences is becoming the norm.”

The top ten interests you’ll have time for when you’re 52 ½:

1.       Visiting the coast
2.       Exploring new areas of Britain
3.       Walking/rambling
4.       Spending time with my children and/or grandchildren
5.       Getting close to nature
6.       Trying out new food and drink
7.       Cooking
8.       Going to festivals - music, art, culture
9.       Embracing a healthy lifestyle
10.     Discovering new cultures

The campaign to encourage motorhome and outdoor holidays is currently running at freedomtogo.co.uk.

Discover great places to visit in the latest issue of MMM magazine.

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