Boomers have been around long enough to collect many quirky habits that leave younger generations cracking up or scratching their heads. They might not always be in sync with today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, but Boomers bring their own special charm to the table. And it’s equal parts endearing and hilarious, even when they’re not trying to be.
1. They Still Navigate With a Paper Map
Forget GPS. When a Boomer pulls out a paper map, you know an adventure is about to go down. They unfold it like they’re plotting a cross-country road trip. Watching them navigate with a map the size of the dashboard is a slow-motion comedy. And refolding it? Good luck.
2. They Hang On to Everything “Just in Case”
Boomers are the ultimate savers. They probably have a drawer full of dead batteries or a closet overflowing with VHS tapes. They believe everything could come in handy someday, no matter how unlikely. It’s almost like they’re preparing for an episode of Antiques Roadshow, where their old 1980s gadget will finally be worth something.
3. They Talk About the Weather Like It’s Breaking News
For Boomers, the weather report is big news. Whether sunny, rainy, or somewhere in between, they’ll give you the full rundown like they’re moonlighting for The Weather Channel. Expect them to drop phrases like, “Unseasonably warm for October” or “We could sure use some rain” into every conversation. Often.
4. They Keep Albums Like Priceless Artifacts
Boomers don’t rely on cloud storage or Instagram for their memories—they keep them in meticulously curated photo albums. Each photo is hand-selected, often slipped into a plastic sleeve with care, and arranged chronologically. Visiting them is like being invited to tour a personal museum. Every snapshot is a conversation starter, from family gatherings to that one unforgettable vacation in the ‘70s.
5. They Wear Watches Like Timeless Status Symbols
For Boomers, a watch is more than a timepiece—it symbolizes punctuality and class. Often, it’s a gift from a special occasion: a retirement party, a graduation, or a wedding anniversary. The leather straps may be worn, but the watch still ticks precisely. It’s a piece of history on their wrist, and they glance at it not just to check the time but to ground themselves in a routine that’s been the same for decades.
6. They Read the Newspaper Like a Morning Ceremony
For Boomers, the newspaper is essential to their morning routine—just as sacred as their first cup of coffee. While others scan headlines on their phones, Boomers savor the process: the rustle of the paper, the ink smudges on their fingers, and the satisfaction of spreading it out on the breakfast table. They don’t just skim either—they read the entire thing, front to back.
7. They Use Landlines Like Secret Hotlines
Boomers may have embraced the smartphone, but their loyalty to the landline is unshakable. It’s more than just a phone—it’s a symbol of stability, the anchor of the home. The phone rings, and they answer with that same familiar tone they’ve used for decades. And when they give you their phone number, it’s often the same one they’ve had since the 1970s, complete with the area code from their first house.
8. They Write Letters Like Personal Masterpieces
Boomers aren’t ones for quick texts or DMs. When they have something important to say, they sit down and write a letter—a proper letter, with full sentences and thoughtful expressions. And it’s not just about the words; it’s about the process. They choose nice paper, maybe even a monogrammed notecard, and use their best handwriting. The envelope is sealed with care, and when you receive it, you can almost hear the satisfaction in the way they lick the stamp.
9. They Wear Their “Good Shoes” on Outings
For Boomers, shoes aren’t just an accessory but an investment in comfort and success. They’ve been buying the same style of well-crafted loafers, oxfords, or heels for years, and they swear by them. These are the shoes they’ll wear to church, to weddings, or to any occasion that matters. “Good shoes take you good places,” they’ll say, telling you exactly why paying more for a solid pair of leather shoes beats trendy sneakers any day of the week.
10. They Watch TV Reruns and Rediscover Gold
Boomers have their favorite TV shows, and they’re fiercely loyal to them. Reruns of “MAS*H,” “Cheers,” or “The Golden Girls” are like comfort food. They know every line, every punchline, and every plot twist, yet they watch with the same excitement as if it were the first time. These shows aren’t just entertainment—they’re part of their history. When a Boomer says, “They don’t make shows like this anymore,” they mean it.
11. They Shop In-Store Like It’s a Social Outing
Shopping is more than a task for Boomers—it’s an event. They don’t just run in and out of stores; they browse, inspect, and chat with store clerks like old friends. It’s all about the tactile experience—the feel of fabric, the weight of a product, and the satisfaction of finding the perfect item in person. Online shopping might be convenient, but it lacks the human connection they crave.
12. They Never Miss a Holiday Card
Boomers are the masters of holiday cards and take this tradition very seriously. Weeks before Christmas, they’re already on it, addressing envelopes and writing personalized messages. These aren’t your average store-bought cards either—often, they’re photo cards with the whole family posed just so. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a long, detailed letter included, recounting the family’s year in meticulous detail.
13. They Cook Recipes That Are Family Heirlooms
Boomers don’t cook on a whim. Their recipes are often passed down through generations, perfected over time, and guarded like family secrets. The food they prepare isn’t just sustenance—it’s tradition. Whether it’s their famous lasagna, the Thanksgiving stuffing no one else is allowed to touch, or grandma’s pie recipe, every dish tells a story. And don’t even think about altering the recipe…
14. They Tinker With Things and Gadgets Like Solving Puzzles
Boomers approach broken gadgets like a detective cracking a case. Whether it’s the old toaster, the family car, or an out-of-date VCR, they’ll fix it themselves; thank you very much. Armed with a toolbox and an unshakable confidence in their ability to figure things out, they’ll spend hours tinkering away. Their philosophy? If it can be fixed, there’s no need to replace it.
15. They Keep Rolodexes Like Their OG Social Network
In a digital age, Boomers still treasure their Rolodexes. These little rotating card files are their social networks, filled with decades of contacts—neighbors, friends, business associates, and long-lost cousins. They’ve built this collection for years, carefully handwriting each card and keeping track of every phone number, address, and even birthday. The Rolodex isn’t just a contact list—it’s a glimpse into their life history, a physical manifestation of all the relationships they’ve nurtured over the years.
