The world is slowly opening up, and seniors are ready to travel. Most international destinations are now accessible, albeit with some restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19. While this is good news to everyone, seniors must always take extra caution when traveling. Fortunately, by following a few easy travel tips for seniors, potential disasters can be avoided.
One thing that every senior must realize is that as we get older, we become more prone to illnesses and injuries. Accidents can happen anywhere, and things might not be so good if you are involved because it may take an extended period to recover from any injuries sustained.
That is why it is crucial for senior travelers to be fully aware of such misfortunes and plan for the unexpected. This article highlights some of the best travel tips for seniors to make it easier for them to enjoy their adventures.
Tip #1: Buy Travel Insurance
This is by far the most important thing that every senior who loves traveling should do. Travel medical insurance helps keep you safe and financially secure no matter where you are.
If you are involved in an accident and sustain injuries or contract illness while away from home, your travel medical insurance will ensure you get the medical attention you deserve without facing difficulties.
Remember that Original Medicare won’t cover you when you are abroad. Medicare Advantage is even worse because it won’t cover you when you are not within their coverage location.
Although travel medical insurance for seniors can cost a little bit more, it is worth every penny if you love traveling. You may not need to use it, but you will be at peace knowing that you are fully covered if things hit a snag. You can explore the world feeling confident.
Tip #2: Choose Your Travel Method Wisely
While you are planning and preparing for your big trip, ensure you take time to think about your transportation option. There are so many ways of getting from point A to point B, but there will always be one best for your situation.
While flying may be your preferred mode of transportation, it is good to evaluate the suitability of a public bus or train depending on where you want to go. In some cases, buses and trains offer discounts to seniors, which can help you save some money.
During the period of COVID-19, buses and trains have reduced their capacity limits by blocking middle seats to ensure enough space between passengers. Before you book a train or bus ticket, reach out to your local train or bus station to find out what precautions have been put in place to keep passengers safe and healthy.
If you choose to travel by air, ask about senior flying discounts. Many airlines such as Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines offer good senior flying discounts to encourage seniors to book flights with them.
In most cases, these discounts will vary based on which markets you are flying to and from and the flight length. It is always a good idea to contact the airline you prefer to travel with and ask about the best price possible before you book your ticket.
Tip #3: Don’t Forget to Carry Your Medications
Most seniors are on several medications that help them stay healthy and happy. So, if you are traveling out of town, it is always good to pack all your important medications in your handbag and keep them handy. This is to avoid getting up mid-flight and digging into your suitcase overhead searching for drugs.
Keep every drug in an easy-to-reach place. Don’t put them in the main suitcase because the flight might get delayed, and it is almost impossible for the airline to retrieve your bag once it is checked in and put in the cabin- even if the situation is critical.
Always keep plenty of medications with you so that you can make it through the flight without any problems. This way, you will still be fine even if there is a flight delay to your destination.
Tip #4: Ask for Special Accommodations in Advance
Besides senior flying discounts, you should also be sure to explore additional perks such as extra assistance with luggage and other personalization options such as early onboarding and choosing your preferred seat.
Board the flight ahead of time to ensure you have plenty of time to get comfortable while keeping a safe distance from other travelers.
You should also put on your mask at all times while at the airport and for the entire duration of your flight. Limit contact with other passengers as much as possible and carry a hand sanitizer.
Tip #5: Think about Your Safety and Security
The truth is that seniors are always seen as vulnerable adults, especially in high-traffic travel centers such as the airport. Don’t allow yourself to be an easy target.
Female seniors must avoid carrying a purse or anything that can attract criminals to them. If they must carry some money around, let it be kept in a money belt worn under their blouse or a passage wallet hidden under their coat by a neck cord.
Male seniors should avoid carrying a wallet in their trouser pockets. Instead, they should hide the wallet under the neck cord or tuck it safely into their pants and secure it with a belt.
You should always keep your carry-on between your feet when you are standing or with the shoulder strap looped around the leg of your flight chair when you are seated.
Tip #6: Guard Yourself Against Deep-Vein Thrombosis
Seniors run a significantly high risk of developing deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), which happens when blood clots form in your blood veins and end up blocking blood flow to your legs.
Sitting still for prolonged times on an airplane, bus, or train can contribute to DVT. However, research shows that wearing compression stockings can play a critical role in preventing DVT.
You can also take frequent breaks to walk or do simple exercise during a long ride to keep your veins in decent shape and protect yourself from developing this condition. Always check with your healthcare provider before you embark on a long journey.
Tip #7: Beware of Free Wi-Fi
While we may be tempted to use free Wi-Fi at public spaces such as airports, hotels, and restaurants, you need to be careful with the information you access using the free Wi-Fi.
Generally, avoid accessing private documents or your online banking information when using free Wi-Fi in public spaces.
If you must use free Wi-Fi in public spaces such as airports, coffee shops, or restaurants, ensure you are connected to the correct Wi-Fi by asking a staff member the correct Wi-Fi name to connect to.
Tip #8: Choose Senior-Friendly Tour or Cruise
There are many tour and cruise possibilities out there. These companies offer a unique service since everything is planned, operated, and staffed to deliver a memorable experience and great destination discovery. Some tour and cruise companies specialize in accessible lifestyle vacations ideal for people with special needs and disabilities.
Pricing is usually on a per-person basis. Therefore, consider the costs if you choose to travel with such companies and want to bring your caregiver along. But the truth is that a cruise or tour experience might be the perfect escape for a senior-friendly adventure.
Tip #9: Skip Alcohol and Drink Lots of Water
This is particularly important if you are traveling by air. Flying at high altitudes is highly dehydrating, and many people usually think that if they are sat still, they don’t need water.
While young people can cope with the situation quite well, seniors can get into trouble when dehydrated.
Therefore, it is critical to have a water bottle with you to keep you hydrated. You can carry an empty bottle and fill it at the airport café once you pass through security checks. Keep sipping the water throughout your flight.
Tip #10: Hire a Travel Companion
Seniors who want to travel but fear the lonely feeling or aren’t quite mobile can hire a travel companion. This specialized feature is offered as a service by many senior care homes at an affordable rate.
As a senior, you can hire a caregiver to accompany you on every trip you make and offer whatever assistance you need. This will give you the peace of mind you need as you travel.
Summary
Read to get out and explore the world? Our travel experts are here to help you make informed decisions. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have about travel tips for seniors.
