I’ve been around for well over six decades now, and let me tell you, I’ve seen my fair share of changing trends—both in spending habits and in life. 

Yet there are certain things I’ve noticed folks in my generation (yes, I’m a boomer myself) will open their wallets for time and time again, no matter how high the price tag climbs. 

One thing’s for sure: we tend to pour our resources into the things we genuinely value, and rarely do we second-guess those choices.

On the Global English Editing blog, I’ve written on all sorts of topics about personal development and well-being. But today, I want to zero in on something a bit more tangible—finances and spending patterns. 

Let’s face it: money might not buy happiness, but where we choose to put our hard-earned dollars says a lot about what matters to us. 

I believe that understanding these spending habits can give insights not only into the boomer mindset but also into how life experiences shape our priorities over time. 

So without further ado, here are seven things I’ve seen people my age consistently invest in—no matter the cost.

1. Quality health care

I might as well start with the big one. It’s no secret that as we age, health becomes a central focus—both for ourselves and our loved ones. 

From regular checkups to prescription medications, my generation doesn’t cut corners when it comes to staying well. We know the value of nipping small issues in the bud before they become big problems. 

After all, I’d rather pay for a thorough examination now than end up facing a more serious condition later.

But it’s not just about the big doctor visits or insurance premiums. Many in my circle will shell out for gym memberships, chiropractor sessions, or holistic treatments, too—anything that promises to improve our quality of life. 

We’re even open to splurging on tech that will improve our health. In fact, an analysis by GWI Consumer Research found that 4 out of 5 boomers who own a smartwatch or smart wristband use it primarily for health and fitness tracking. That’s more than any other generation. 

So, take it from us – you can’t put a price on good health, not if you want to live a long, happy life.

2. Home improvements and maintenance

You know how some people wince at the cost of a new roof or a state-of-the-art HVAC system? 

Not boomers—at least, not the ones I know. We’ve spent a lifetime working toward our dream homes, and once we’re in them, we’re determined to keep them in tip-top shape. 

Maybe it’s because we remember times when home repairs took a back seat to more immediate bills. Now, if we’re financially able, we see renovations as an investment that pays dividends in comfort and peace of mind.

We’ve lived long enough to learn all the home maintenance lessons the hard way, and we know that ignoring a minor issue could lead to real damage and a bigger bill down the line. 

So, if a top-quality contractor comes along with a high quote, my generation would rather bite the bullet than risk dealing with half-baked patch jobs. After all, there’s a certain pride and security in a well-kept home.

3. Travel and meaningful experiences

Here’s another interesting finding from GWI Consumer Research: 

“Baby boomers are pretty unique in their approach to travel, often booking trips on a whim rather than saving for them in advance. In fact, they’re 159% more likely than the average consumer to do this, increasing to 211% more likely among baby boomers who are retired.”

This spontaneous approach suggests that many in this generation feel an urgency to embrace new adventures whenever the opportunity arises. 

Whether it’s a quick flight to a coastal city or a last-minute cruise deal, baby boomers are often ready to jump on experiences without the lengthy planning process others might prefer.

Part of this mindset could stem from a desire to make the most of their time and resources. Rather than overthinking or delaying plans, they simply decide and go—an attitude that can be liberating. 

From a broader perspective, this pattern illustrates the value many baby boomers place on meaningful travel, embracing each journey as an opportunity to learn, unwind, and create memories that last far longer than any souvenir ever could.

4. Gifts for the grandchildren (and family)

Speaking of meaningful experiences, boomers get a lot of joy from showering their grandchildren with gifts—from the practical (like cozy winter jackets) to the whimsical (like the latest electronic game console). 

It’s not just about spoiling kids, though I’ll admit that’s part of the fun. It’s also a way to stay connected and show love across the generations.

One of my favorite weekend routines is taking my grandchildren to the local park with my trusty dog, Lottie, by my side. In my eyes, investing in their happiness—whether that’s a special birthday present or a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Disney—is worth every penny. 

And I’m not alone. Many boomers see it as a privilege to lend financial support, provide college funds, or help with a first car. 

We might joke about being “the Bank of Grandpa,” but deep down, it’s a source of pride and fulfillment.

5. Insurance and financial safeguards

For boomers, feeling secure is invaluable. We come from a generation that remembers times of economic uncertainty, and many of us vow never to be caught off guard again. 

That’s why we often have hefty insurance policies—health insurance, life insurance, homeowner’s insurance, you name it—and we diligently pay our premiums, no matter how painful they can sometimes be.

It’s not just about personal protection, either. Many of my friends carry robust coverage so their spouses and children won’t be saddled with overwhelming expenses if something unforeseen happens. 

It’s a peace-of-mind purchase, plain and simple. You hope you’ll never need it, but if disaster strikes, you’ll be grateful it’s there.

6. Charitable giving

This one might be a bit less obvious to some, but trust me, boomers are often big givers. 

Whether it’s tithing at church, donating to a favorite charity, or funding the local arts scene, a lot of folks I know put a high priority on giving back. 

In many cases, it’s because we grew up in tighter-knit communities where helping out a neighbor or a worthy cause was simply what you did.

I’ve personally witnessed friends spend thousands annually on philanthropic endeavors—from medical research to scholarship funds—without ever batting an eye at the cost. It’s rooted in the sense of responsibility and gratitude for the lives we’ve built. 

In fact, according to research on generational giving trends, boomers are considered the “most charitable” of generations, and they are responsible for 43% of total giving within the United States.

7. Quality nostalgia and hobbies

Finally, there’s something about hitting your 60s (and beyond) that makes you appreciate the finer, nostalgic things in life. 

Vinyl records, vintage cars, first-edition books, restoring an old guitar…all of these are expenses many of us won’t think twice about. It’s not that we’re stuck in the past; we just know what we love, and revisiting the joys of yesteryear is one of those.

For me, it’s collecting classic novels and re-reading them on quiet afternoons. I might joke that it’s cheaper than therapy, but there’s a certain truth to that. 

Another friend of mine is all about restoring his ’69 Mustang, and let me tell you, the cost of parts and specialized labor can add up fast. But I’ve never once seen him hesitate to write those checks because, in his mind, he’s preserving a piece of history that brings him real joy. 

That’s the heart of it for so many boomers: we’ll spend on passions that nourish our sense of identity and belonging.

I won’t pretend to have it all figured out, but observing these spending habits over the years has taught me that our money often follows our values—health, family, comfort, experiences, security, community, and a sweet dose of nostalgia. 

Sure, not every boomer is cut from the same cloth, but these patterns crop up time and again among my peers.

And if you ask me, there’s a lesson in it for folks of any generation. Where you put your money—and your time—reveals what you cherish most. 

Maybe you’re a millennial or Gen Z-er reading this and thinking, “I see glimpses of myself in these habits.” Or perhaps you’re watching your parents do these very things and wondering if you’ll follow suit.

Either way, it’s worth reflecting on: will you one day be the type of person who’d pay top dollar for good health, a well-maintained home, or cherished memories? Or maybe you’ll find new, unexpected ways to invest in what matters to you. 

There’s no wrong answer—just the ongoing journey of figuring out what makes life truly fulfilling.

So I’ll leave you with this question: what will you always spend money on, no matter the cost? 

If you’re anything like me and my fellow boomers, I bet it’ll be something that enriches your life, strengthens your bonds with loved ones, and brings a little extra light into your days. 

And in my book, that’s money well spent.