6 Essential Senior Summer Travel Tips
Planning a vacation to sightsee or visit family? When you’re a senior, there are special considerations you need to observe in order to have your trip go as smoothly as possible.
Besides locking your home securely and packing your sunscreen, here are six specific senior summer travel trips to help you enjoy a stress-free experience:
- Pack Medications Separately
Do you take medications daily? Don’t pack them in your luggage – it’s too risky. If your suitcases are lost in transit, you could have a serious issue on your hands. Keep them in your carry-on luggage in a large Ziploc bag, along with all prescription documentation from your doctor. Make sure to pack extra hearing aid batteries as well – these can be hard to find in remote locations.
- Beware of Over-Packing
If you have mobility issues, over-packing can make your trip much more strenuous and exhausting. It’s important to only pack as much as you will need. Plan on doing laundry while away to save space versus filling up more than one suitcase. If you have to pack a second bag, try to find one that attaches to the top of your rolling suitcase to make it easier to maneuver.
- Schedule a Physical Before You Leave
Before a long trip, one of the most important senior summer travel tips is to check in with your doctor, especially if you are traveling internationally. Make sure you are fully vaccinated.
Ask your doctor for print-outs on your current medications and any information on your pre-existing conditions, just in case you need to visit another doctor or hospital while away. Pack this information with your medications. Also, discuss how to alter your medication schedule if you are changing time zones. Your doctor can provide safe tips to keep you on track.
- Fly Smart
For long flights, anticipate frequent restroom visits and request an aisle seat close to the bathroom. Stay fully hydrated and get up to move around the airplane at regular intervals to prevent deep-vein thrombosis, a condition where blood clots form in your legs.
To prevent the added stress of changing airplanes, try to book direct flights whenever possible.
- Prepare for Emergencies
Make sure your family and friends have in-depth knowledge of your itinerary. List your emergency contacts and keep the information in your purse or wallet.
- Consider Insurance
No senior summer travel tips list is complete without the mention of comprehensive travel insurance coverage. Most insurance plans don’t provide coverage overseas and seniors with specific health conditions should financially protect themselves against medical emergencies. Travel insurance can also provide reimbursement for trip interruption or theft.
What’s the right travel insurance plan for you? Trust our team for personalized senior summer travel tips as well as an in-depth free quote on how to protect yourself and your finances on your next vacation. Call My Senior Health Plan today.
