In today’s day and age, traveling is not just a privilege enjoyed by the young. More and more seniors are choosing to travel the world and make the most of the time they have left. But unfortunately the older you get, the more limitations there are. Here are some travel tips for senior travelers on how they can travel smart and safe.
If you don’t have a specific time you wish to travel during, do some research on the destination you’re traveling to and pick a time that avoids winter/summer breaks and other major holidays. This way you will be avoiding crowds, and you can pick a travel duration with more favorable weather.
Researching a destination will also help you avoid travel scams. Go through travel forums and read up on the experiences other travelers have had when visiting the chosen destination.
Also make sure to do some research on more senior-friendly hotels, attractions, modes of travel; such as airlines, etc.
This tip may apply to younger travelers as well, since packing light makes traveling a whole load easier, but it is more important for seniors. The lighter your bags, the easier and quicker it will be for you to get through standard airport procedure. Packing light also ensures your bags are easier to carry from the airport to the hotel, or from hotel to hotel; if you are hoping to travel quite a bit in the destination you choose.
Pack all medication and other necessary items in a zip-lock bag, along with doctor’s notes and prescriptions, in a bag that you will be carrying-on. It is also recommended that seniors get a health check-up done before traveling.
Don’t forget to take along a travel pillow, a jacket and a pair of socks (incase it gets cold on the plane), an extra pair of glasses, and other essential items that will help make your journey more comfortable.
The destination you pick matters greatly. Some destinations will have a variety of options for younger travelers, and older travelers will have certain limitations that will not allow them to enjoy a destination as such completely. Choose a destination that you know has numerous attractions you will enjoy.
Book accommodation that is close to the attractions/sights you wish to visit. If you cannot climb stairs, and the hotel does not have lifts, make inquiries regarding a room on the ground floor. By doing both of these, you avoid getting tired too quickly, thus allowing you to enjoy what the destination has to offer even more.
The older you get, the more you have to watch what you eat. Avoid eating the food items that you know will make you sick or sluggish. If you have a restricted diet, don’t stray from it, unless you want to be stuck in your hotel room instead of exploring the destination! Make sure to take your medications on time, and to stay well hydrated throughout the day.
It is easy for any traveler to get lost in the magnificence of an attraction. Older travelers are however more prone to being less aware of their surroundings and thus easier targets for pick-pockets and thieves. While sightseeing, make sure to take along only what is only necessary, and keep everything else; such as extra cash, fancy items like watches and jewelry, locked up safely in your hotel room.
