The colder winter weather is here; for those who love the snow and the merry feeling of the season, this is what you’ve been waiting for! On the other hand, we’re sure some of you are daydreaming about running away to a tropical island for the winter.
It’s no secret that travelling gets more complicated as we get older. So, when you finally decide to escape from winter and run off to a warmer climate, take these five senior travel tips with you.
Take Advantage of Senior Discounts and Accommodations
Being older has its benefits when it comes to travelling! Some airlines offer discounts on flights for seniors, and many of the most popular cruise lines offer senior discounts. Plus, if you’re a CARP member, they offer several member-exclusive travel discounts on hotels, car rentals, and tours.
Not only can you cash in on some potential discounts, but most airlines also have accessibility services to make it a little easier for older travellers. You may be able to get priority seating, early boarding, specialty food services, and on-demand mobility aids. Before you travel, always get in touch with the airline, hotel, travel company, etc., to see if you can get any accommodations or discounts as a senior.
Make Sure You’re Comfortable with the Technology You’ll Need to Use on Your Trip
These days, there’s a lot of technology involved with travelling. There are online pre-check-ins for flights, and most boarding passes are digital. Plus, it can be handy to use a digital translator if you’re travelling somewhere English isn’t the primary language. Before you head out on your trip, it’s essential to make sure you’re comfortable using the technology required for your trip or you’re travelling with someone who is and can help you. Nobody wants to spend more time in lines waiting at the airport, so getting comfortable with the tech will help keep things moving along smoothly on your trip.
Don’t Be Afraid to Bring and Use a Mobility Aid
As you head out to travel, especially for flights, we all try to pack as light as possible to fit into the carry-on size or bag weight limits. But, one thing you shouldn’t skip on packing is a mobility aid. One thing that’s certain about travelling is there’s quite a bit of walking involved, no matter your destination. That makes mobility aids essential, especially if it’s something you already use daily. Most airlines will allow you to bring a cane, walker, wheelchair, or even an electric scooter at no extra cost. And depending on the size of the device you need, you may be able to bring it into the cabin with you. Trust us; you don’t want to end up not being able to explore your destination properly because you decided not to pack your mobility aid!
Make Sure Your Medical Information and Medications Are in Order
If you take any medications or have any medical issues or requirements, it’s essential to make sure you have all of your information and medications in order for your trip. It’s also important to make sure you have an alarm or reminder set in place if you need to take your medications at a certain time. This is especially important if you’re travelling to a new time zone, as it’s easy to fall out of your routine. Most of the time, you can arrange with your pharmacy and doctor ahead of time to ensure you have enough of your medication to keep up your proper dosage throughout your trip.
Get Convenient and Durable Travel Gear
Having the right gear will make your trip easier by giving you the peace of mind that your belongings are safe and protected in durable gear. Here are some of the most essential items you might consider getting before your trip:
- A secure and easy-to-use travel pouch or passport holder to keep your essential documents like your ID, credit cards, and cash safe and handy.
- Durable and lightweight luggage and carry-one that’s easy for you to carry and identify.
- A waterproof toiletry bag to protect your liquid/cream products and your other belongings in case anything breaks open during travel.
- A travel pillow or blanket to make the trip more comfortable.
There’s a lot to worry about and prepare for when you’re travelling at any age; it can be easy to get caught up in the stress of making sure everything goes smoothly. But the most important thing to remember is to have fun! Enjoy this time that you’re able to spend exploring new places or rediscovering an old favourite destination. Soak up every second you can spend with your loved ones, friends, or travel buddy, creating new, exciting memories. Nobody can travel forever, so take advantage while you can.
