Travel after 65 - Plan, Pack & Explore

Whether new to travel or experienced, there are always standards of care and preparation that will help make trip more safe, a traveler more confident and open the doors for more fun to be had!

Below are beneficial tips and resources.

PREPARATION

Start hydrating early
Authorization to travel with grandchildren letter is a document signed by a child's parents, giving permission for their child to travel with their grandparents.
Medications keep in original bottle and only the amount you need,
Vitamins can be in different containers,
If going to a country with a vastly different diet - prepare ahead of time by incorporating some of those foods into your meals at home
Do not over pack - laundry can be done while traveling
Compressions bags allow for effective packing
RFID protection accessories RFID is radio frequency technology that can steal our credit card and passport information.
Keep your passport securely locked at the hotel
Make sure your walking shoes are newer not older than a year. If brand new, be sure to break them in for a month before traveling
Photocopy your passport and keeping in a separate location
ETIAS. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) - is travel authorization and a new entry requirement for visa-free travelers entering 30 European countries for a short stay (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). It is planned to start operating in Spring 2025.
Travel booking - tours are a great way for safe travel. If booking alone - countries often have stairs in their hotels - always ask if an elevator is available
Consider the distance from your hotel to local transportation
Be up to date on vaccinations and check to see if any specific innoculations are required for your destination.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Can offer youup to 100% refund to cancel depending on the coverage you choose.
Can cover your health needs if something unexpected arises.
About Travel Health Insurance (Medicare and Medicare Advantage do not cover you outside of the United States):
Several Travel Insurance companies: Allianz, Aardy (AARP), Travel Guard

PACKING & TRACKING

In this day and age, you can track your luggage with small devices.
Compression socks for air travel, comfortable socks for walking.
Keep medicine and medical devices with you.
If mobility is a concern, arrange for wheelchair services ahead of time at the airport. Airports are large and can take time to walk through.
Snacks and water are important. Be aware liquids can be taken from you before you go through security so plan drink before and/or purchase after passing through security.
Packing comfy socks is important and taking bandaids and/or moleskin.
Sunscreen, lip balm and lotion are important too.
Always check the US State Department website to see if there are any state 'do not travel' recommendations.
Be aware of possible dress codes at religious sites.

SAFETY

1. If traveling solo - choose hotel rooms above the 1st floor.

2. Do not exchange money with anyone who comes up to you on the street, they do that near money exchange locations offering to save you time.

Getting RFID protection gear. (see under preparation)
Group Travel Programs: Road Scholar, Overseas Travel Adventure, Rick Steves,

CULTURAL NOTES

In Europe, the first floor is often our second floor.
Do not expect things to be the same as in the US. Be flexible, patient.
Learning a few phrases in the language you are visiting is always respectful and helpful. For example: please, thank you, where are the bathrooms, etc.
Ask permission before taking photos.
Streets in other countries can be uneven, consider taking walking sticks and remember those comfy shoes.
Even how food is eaten can be different along with the order in which they consume it. Some countries drink coffee after their dessert. Others eat vegetables separately from their protein. Others may consume many small meals. Be aware that these are opportunities for learning, experiencing and respecting.
There is a lot to consider if you are not experienced in traveling. Travel professionals are there to help you plan accordingly.

TRAVEL SITES

1. National Council on Aging (NCOA)

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