Best Senior Travel Tips to Follow this Summer

It always pays to think ahead when traveling, and that goes double for older adults. However, with the right preparation, travelers of any age can have a fun and safe trip. The key is knowing how to stay safe in a variety of situations. Whether you’re taking an overseas vacation, hopping on a luxury cruise, or just crossing state lines, be sure to keep all of these tips in mind.

1. Keep Medications Organized

Just because you’re on a trip doesn’t mean you can take a vacation from your regular course of medications. For older adults who have a hard time remembering which pills to take and when, traveling can only make matters worse. That’s why a Travel Pill Organizer is a must, offering a compact and convenient way to stay on top of your health. You can even keep it in your carry-on, so you have full access while on the plane.

It may also be a good idea to keep all of your medications organized on a written list. You can even ask your pharmacist for help putting your list together to ensure it is complete and accurate.

Find More Ways to Prioritize Your Health While Traveling

2. Check Your Vaccination Status

When traveling overseas, many countries require vaccinations to ensure your health and that of the local population. This may take some time to schedule, and many vaccines need to be taken up to six weeks before your departure. If you’re not sure what vaccinations you need, check out this traveler’s resource on the CDC’s website.

With COVID-19 as the new normal, various countries have their own rules and restrictions regarding traveler’s Covid vaccination status’. When planning your trip, make sure to check the entry and exit requirements of your destination. To play it safe, it’s always a good idea to stay up to date on your booster.

3. Prepare for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a condition where blood clots in the leg, potentially causing pain and swelling. Because of the pressure changes in an airplane cabin, as well as long periods of sitting, older adults are at especially high risk of DVT when traveling. Especially for those who already suffer from the condition, it can be a serious cause for concern.

One simple way to manage blood flow in your lower extremities is with an Ankle Compression Sleeve. This handy sleeve applies even pressure across the leg, helping to prevent the blood clots that cause DVT.

4. Get the Mobility Support You Need

Make sure to have a clear idea of your daily itinerary before embarking on your next vacation. Steep grades, uneven terrain, or wet ground can make even a short walk that much more difficult for those with mobility challenges. If you’re going to face any of the above, it’s a good idea to know in advance so you can prepare ahead of time.

Also, keep in mind that not all mobility scooters are TSA-approved. If you’re not sure whether yours is approved to fly with, check the TSA guidelines.

A high-end Mobility Scooter is a must-have for older adults looking to see all the sights without taxing their legs. Vive’s mobility scooters are TSA-approved, and perfect for travel with a padded seat that ensures all-day comfort. A front-mounted basket lets you keep all your souvenirs safe and accounted for.

5. Book a Tour

Traveling is definitely an adventure worth having, though there are more ways than one to see the sights. If you’re worried about keeping a schedule and staying safe, a tour can be a fun and secure way to visit your destination. Most tour groups are between 12 and 24 people, led by expert guides who can make sure you see everything without getting lost or suffering stress. Plus, it can be a good way to meet some like-minded travelers!

6. Try a Travel Group or Club

If you like the idea of a group dynamic but would prefer to set your own schedule, a travel group might be the perfect option. Like professionally-guided tours, you can enjoy the company of a dozen or so fellow travelers. This can help get good rates on hotels or attractions like safaris. You can find an existing group online or form your own by talking to a travel agent.

7. Pace Yourself

No matter what kind of traveling you’re doing, it always seems like there’s more to do and see. While there’s nothing wrong with getting out and seeing the sights, you want to make sure you do so at a pace that’s healthy for you. If you need a bit of extra support, a Quad Cane can help you step confidently without taking up too much extra space.

8. Travel in Comfort

Staying comfortable during your flight should be a priority for older adults and can even have a positive effect on your joints and back. While plane seats may not always be the most comfortable, you can help matters with a Seat Cushion that adds a bit of padding right where you need it. If you’re worried about back pain, a Lumbar Roll can be another useful addition.

Though these aren’t the only ways to make your flight more comfortable. Even something as simple as choosing an aisle seat can be a great way to stay comfortable, and give you easy access to the restroom when needed. It also gives you more freedom to get up and stretch regularly.

9. Stay Hydrated

You can never underestimate the importance of staying hydrated, especially if you’re traveling to hot and dry climates. Dehydration can be especially harmful to older adults, causing headaches, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Invest in a reusable water bottle and aim to get at least the standard 8 cups. You’ll likely need more the more active you are. Carry your water bottle with you at all times and to take frequent sips even when you don’t feel thirsty.

A Personal Humidifier can be another great way to ensure your hotel room or other lodgings stay comfortable. Also, try to avoid drinking alcohol if you are worried about staying hydrated.

10. Consider Travelers Insurance

Many older adults aren’t aware that Medicare won’t cover you while traveling abroad. That means travelers insurance is the best way to ensure your physical and financial security. It does cost a bit more for older adults, though most who can afford a trip overseas consider it a minimal cost that’s well worth it.

11. Be Prepared

When traveling, it pays to expect the unexpected and be prepared for any situation that might arise. Of course, that’s easier said than done, but with a Mini First Aid Kit you can handle some of the most common health emergencies like cuts, scrapes, stings, and infection. A travel-sized kit is a great choice for those traveling light, though it doesn’t hurt to have a Full First Aid Kit stashed in your bag.

Traveling in Style and Safety

With the right preparation and equipment, it’s easy to plan a trip that’s both fun and safe. Of course, everybody is different, and you may have your own medical needs that need to be taken into consideration. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any health concerns prior to planning your next trip.