4 Considerations for Senior Travelers
Posted by Donna Mae Scheib on May 18, 2017
4 Considerations for Senior Travelers
Summer is a popular traveling season here in the United States, and rightfully so as everyone is excited to enjoy the outdoors. Nicer weather often makes for an easier time for traveling as well. It is a good idea to plan for your trip and take any preventive cautions that would make the trip go bad or turn into an extremely costly excursion. With this in mind, older travelers can take note of these extra safety measures to ensure that they will have a good vacation.
Consider your Health
Take the time to schedule an appointment with your doctor to be sure that traveling is an okay decision. It will be important to go over medications and make sure that you have an adequate supply of your prescriptions to last for the entire trip plus a few days extra in case of flight delays or changes in travel plans. Pack a specific medicine bag and be sure to carry it with you on the plane, and remember to not check it with the rest of your luggage. Keep a list of your medications and their dosages (in their generic form) with you as well in case you need to fulfill any prescriptions. Also, keep your medications in their original containers; this allows for an easier time getting through customs and immigrations. The U.S. State department also issues advisement on considering purchasing medical and dental insurance if your plans include flying overseas; remember, Medicare is not covered internationally. If you have a different health insurance, be sure to look into the coverage plans for this as well. If a medical emergency occurs abroad, medical and emergency information can be accessed at a U.S. Embassy and their website, usembassy.gov.
Consider physical limitations
A vacation is supposed to be a fun trip, but it is easy to become overtired and exhausted. When planning your trip, consider how comfortable you are with the number of things planned on your itinerary for a day. Remember to keep in mind any traveling by car, by train, or by foot as well as the distance needed to travel. Be sure to wear comfortable and supportive shoes. Remember, when you are traveling it is often better to enjoy the things you are able to see rather than trying to see and do it all. Another idea is to perhaps consider the idea of using a wheelchair if you do not think you will be able to keep up during a certain afternoon. Also, if you are flying, most airlines offer services to help transport those who need assistance with getting to a connecting flight, picking up luggage, and getting to a taxi or another means of transportation. This is also a great option for anyone who feels uncomfortable flying or does not have confidence in their ability to be able to find their way to the correct gate and to arrive on time for their next flight. Be sure to call your airline ahead of time to request such services.
Consider your safety
Any traveler should check for any travel warnings or travel alerts for their destination country. The U.S. State Department also offers a Smart Traveler Enrollment Program that allows a U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you, your family, and any trusted advisers in an emergency situation while traveling. It is a good idea to make copies of your itinerary for family or friends back home so that they may know where you are going, especially if you plan on traveling alone. Be sure to keep a cellphone with you at all times (check your international coverage if you are going abroad). Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and remember to keep your credit cards, cash, and phones close to you and secure. It is very easy for someone to walk by and just take your phone out of your hand on a crowded subway or train station. You will never see it again. Ask neighbors or friends to check on your house every so often when you are gone and consider setting timed lights to go on during the evening as well so that it appears that someone is home.
Bon Voyage!
Whether traveling around the United States or somewhere around the world, it is always good to have a plan of action. If everything is taken care of to begin with, all you have to do is enjoy your time! Isn’t that what retirement is all about anyways? Be sure to check out our recommendations for the Top 5 U.S. Destinations for Retirees as well for other ideas if you are not quite sure what kind of adventure you are hoping to embark on!