A trip to visit long-distance family and friends can be a great gift. However, there are some steps to follow to ensure your traveling experience is pleasant and positive overall. Read on to learn more:
Find Travel Discounts
As a senior citizen, you are able to benefit from a wide range of traveling discounts. Research airlines, cruise lines and buses to find out when the best time is to travel and what discounts are available for seniors.
Request Senior Accommodations
Another way to ensure a positive experience when traveling is utilizing senior accommodations. Free wheelchair service, row seats for disabled travelers and dietary specifications for meals are all available to you as a senior when traveling.
Prepare Your Medication And Any Applicable Documentation
If traveling out of the country, you will obviously need an updated passport, and in some cases, specific vaccinations. It’s important to have that ready and prepared ahead of time. In addition, all your prescriptions should be filled and prepared for your trip. Also, it’s a great idea to have copies of your prescriptions as well as any applicable medical statements made, so you can have them on hand should a medical event take place when you are away from home.
Pack Light
In general, the lighter you can pack, the better. When traveling, you don’t have to heft heavy luggage through an airport or bus or train station. Put all your medications in a freezer bag and carry that with you. Keep in mind, you should avoid wrapping any presents that you are taking along via plane, as the airport security will likely demand to see what’s inside.
Consider Security And Safety
Be aware of your surroundings when traveling. Unfortunately, as a senior you are a prime target for pickpockets and con artists. Always stay alert and cognizant of your surroundings. Also, if possible, avoid carrying a purse with cash or credit cards. Instead, hide money or use a money belt under a blouse or on a neck cord.
Ensure Any Destination is Senior Friendly
Make sure your destination is senior friendly. This includes ensuring any destination has ramps, handrails, etc. If you are staying with family at their home, carefully communicate any needs you might have, but make sure you don’t come across as demanding. However, in most cases, your family will want to accommodate your needs and ensure you are comfortable during your stay. If finances allow, you can instead opt to stay in a handicap room at a hotel, where there are elevators, handicap bathrooms and handicap parking.
Try Senior Friendly Tours or Cruises
If you want to travel for leisure or even want to book a few activities during your stay with family, you can try some senior tours or cruises. This is a great way to spend the day or a few days. Many tour companies cater to you as a senior and set up specific tours with your needs and preferences in mind.
Remember the above information when you set up your holiday travels to see family and friends. The overall experience of traveling should be one of joy and anticipation, and with a little forethought and planning, you can ensure that is the in fact the case.
