Whether you’re a seasoned globe trotter or you’ve waited until after you’ve retired to enjoy your first big trip, travel needs and preferences can change significantly as we get older. Travel is a great opportunity for seniors to explore new places, experience different cultures, and connect with loved ones.
Traveling to places both near and far is also a great way to maintain an active lifestyle and stay engaged physically and socially. However, traveling in retirement can present its own set of challenges from selecting the right destination to navigating transportation.
Once you’ve found your next dream vacation and packed your bags, use some of these helpful senior travel tips to get the most out of your journey—no matter where you go.
1. Look for senior travel discounts
When you’re booking your hotel, airline, and other travel accommodations, be sure to check for special offers and discounts for seniors. Organizations such as AARP can offer discounted rates to members. Also, don’t be afraid to ask businesses for discounts as many are happy to offer them to older travelers.
2. Plan ahead with a clear itinerary
It’s always best to be prepared. Once you’ve picked your destination, map out each day with sights to see, restaurants to enjoy, and shops to visit. This way you’ve got activities planned if you’re looking to get out
3. Pack light
When packing, choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched for different occasions—clothes you can dress up or dress down. Also, try to limit yourself to a few pairs of comfortable shoes.
4. Consider a bus tour or cruise
Traveling for seniors is all about comfort and accessibility without sacrificing any of the fun. Bus tours and cruises are an excellent way to travel wherever you want with comfort and ease. Both bus tours and cruises are often package deals with entertainment, meals, and other accommodations all conveniently rolled into one purchase.
5. Stay connected
Make sure you stay in touch with loved ones back home by bringing a smartphone or tablet. It’s never a bad idea to purchase a cell service plan in a foreign country, but remember many hotels, cafes, and other popular areas will have free or cheap wifi so you can access the internet.
6. Prepare for emergencies
No matter if you’re traveling solo or with a tour group, it’s always best to prepare for anything. Bring spare batteries for hearing aids or other medical devices, have important numbers accessible on your phone, prepare medication ahead of time, and keep your personal documentation with you at all times.
7. Find a senior travel group
One of the best ways to have an enriching trip is to share it with other like-minded people. Joining a senior travel group is a great way to meet friends while you explore new places.
8. Research where you’ll stay
While searching for your lodgings, look for hotels and resorts that cater to older adults with amenities like wheelchair accessibility, bathroom grab bars, and more.
9. Consider your health
When you plan your itinerary, keep your health in mind. Make sure your schedule has open time for rest and relaxation. Try to research restaurants that can have foods you can enjoy and make sure you take any necessary medication with you.
10. Take care of yourself
This is the golden rule of travel. Make self-care a priority with enough rest, nutritious meals, and adequate hydration. This will help maintain your health and energy so you have the energy you need to see all the world has to offer.
Looking for a stress-free place to stay on your next senior travel adventure?
One of the most difficult parts of traveling can be leaving the safety and comfort of home. With Five Star Senior Living’s short-term stays you can travel across the country and experience the best parts of home at one of our communities.
Short term stays are great for older adults who want to recover from an illness or injury, have a safe and supportive environment with like minded people, or want to experience what senior living is all about.
We balance independence with aging so you can lead a more active, social, and fulfilling lifestyle all on your terms—each day done your way. Don’t wait to make the most of your retirement years—find a community near you today.
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