Traveling as an interest and a need is so versatile that it appeals to one and all. And, the young at heart, are not behind. There are elderly who love traveling even with paining joints; some explore their passion for traveling post-retirement. Then there are those that aren’t particularly fans of traveling but love their kids and grandchildren and thus, wouldn’t mind hours of being in-air to visit them.
Long hours, late-night flights, and the anxiety about going to a new country; all these concerns may get amplified in the case of senior citizens. Here are a few tips for making it a more relaxed and enjoyable experience than a hassled one.
Timing is everything
While planning the travel, make special consideration for crucial time slots. While making the bookings for the flight, ensure that you choose convenient timings. Check both the departure and landing time to avoid having to deal with the airport formalities at odd hours. Prioritize your sleep schedule, meal breaks, and convenience over all other things. After all, what’s the point of a vacation where the basics go wrong?
Pack light
There is absolutely no way your heavy luggage can provide convenience and comfort while traveling. We get it, you want to pack all your essentials, snacks, and some more; just in case you need them while you are abroad. And of course, how can one forget all the gifts for family! How else will you show all the love and care? But trust us, traveling light will not just help you have an easy-going flight experience it will save you from straining precious muscles and bones. Having a pain-free trip… isn’t that the goal? But if traveling light isn’t a possible alternative, do not forget to book a slot for baggage transfer assistance.
Mind the meals
A food diet is one of the easiest things to take for granted while traveling, especially abroad. While it makes sense to be like Romans and eat like them when in Rome, after a certain age, one’s digestive system is likely to be more of a foe than a friend. And being sick on your trip is the last thing on your mind, yes, we know! Not asking you to skip the chance to experience new delicacies and cuisines; just be mindful of what goes in, and when and draw a fair line where most needed.
Channel your inner planner
Meticulously planning every detail of the trip may seem like a boring task at first, but we strongly recommend this. Last-minute chaos and stress on an international trip is the kind of thrill one can get away with it, especially in the golden years. A simple tip, while planning, make sure you avoid connecting flights. Plan and book your pick-up, stay and travel well in advance. Make sure you have researched the place, culture, food, etc., especially if you are not a frequent international traveler.
Avail golden package
It’s okay if you don’t want to call yourself a senior citizen and you are fitter and smarter than millennial and GenZ kids. But opting for senior citizen packages while traveling may turn out to be a wise decision. You can get rid of the hassles of planning, while someone else does the work for you. Most tourist destinations or spots have valuable and discounted packages for elderly travelers, make the most of it.
Take your meds
Just because you are on a break, doesn’t mean you can give up on your medicines and take a break from your health situation too. Carry your medicines while traveling, and take them as and when prescribed. A new location and environment can come with unexpected health complications, and you don’t want to roam around in a foreign location searching for medicines. Make sure to carry a first-aid kit or pouch wherever you go.
Travelling comes with a new set of challenges every time, and some situations can be more difficult to deal with than others. Although evolving technology and apps are making it easier for senior travelers day by day, certain kind of wisdom can never be replaced by the good-old in