(content by Veselina D)
Don’t let your age stop you from enjoying the world! Enjoy traveling, immersing yourself in exciting new experiences, and meeting new friends all along the way. Follow these great safety tips, from getting the best cheapest travel insurance for senior Australians to bringing the right travel gear, we have the essential tips YOU need!
- Buy the right insurance – You don’t want to get stranded overseas without the right travel insurance. Find travel insurance that also covers basics like illness, injury, and extra coverage if you need access to medication or doctors during trip delays. The right senior travel insurance will save you headaches AND money!
- Enjoy the food the smart way – Eating new exotic foods is part of the charm of travel. Be sure that you speak with your doctor about following your medical diet on your vacation. Some foods will interact with medication, as well. In general, you want to avoid drinking water in a new country and avoid undercooked meat. Avoiding super spicy foods will avoid too much time spent in the bathroom instead of the beach.
- Bring your meds – Always pack your medicine when you travel. If possible, bring extra medicine in your carry-on in the off chance your luggage is lost. Review each airline’s specific guidelines regarding medicine.
- Wear comfy clothes and shoes – Wear comfortable traveling shoes like supportive flats or balanced sneakers. If you plan to walk long distances, you will need shoes that will support your feet and prevent pain or fatigue. Compression socks are also essential for long plane trips and travelers with diabetes.
- Bring copies of documents – Have copies of essential documents like your passport, list of allergies and medications, names of doctors and family members, identification, and health insurance card, and photo identification.
- Hearing aid batteries – If you need a hearing aid, pack extra batteries or even an extra set just in case.
- Toiletries – You may have to pack toiletries to address your physical needs. For example, you may need to pack your dentures case and denture cream or creams for dry skin. While you do not want to over pack, make a list of necessary items you will need.
- Cell phone and internet – Call your phone carrier about international rates and plans. In some cases, you may want to communicate using a temporary pay-as-you-go phone or use texting via Wi-Fi. Check your destination for Internet availability. Even if you travel a remote location, you want to have a way for people to contact you and for you to reach out to others.
- Pace yourself – Be realistic about your expectations and travel goals. Talk with your travel provider about your needs and any limitations you may experience. Airlines, hotels, and travel destinations have special accommodations to assist senior travelers. Plan on one or two attractions per day and give yourself enough time to rest if needed.
- Take company – Traveling will always be more fun in twos, or threes or fours! Travel in a large group of friends, with family, or with your significant other. Pair up with companion that can help you if you have some issues with mobility. Educational travel packages, trips with a church or community group, or even traveling with older grandkids can be a fun experience for all.
Enjoy making new memories by traveling the globe! With a little planning and care you can experience a lifetime of memories.
