Travel Tips for Senior Citizens

Travel is an exciting activity but it can come with some risks, especially for seniors. Seniors can become victims in so many aspects of life and traveling can present some challenges for seniors. There are things seniors can do to make sure that traveling is a safe activity. Having a plan of action, being prepared and aware and learning as much as you can about your destination before you arrive, can help seniors travel safely.

Health Issues

If you plan to be traveling for an extended period, out of the country or to a destination you are unfamiliar with, it is wise to make sure any health issues you may have are carefully addressed.

• Get a check up with your regular physician. Make sure you are in good health for your planned trip.

• Bring along enough of maintenance medications to cover your travel days. Even in today's Internet world, getting a prescription refilled far from home can be troublesome.

• Make sure to bring your insurance and prescription cards with in case you need to see a doctor while you're away.

• If you are taking a long flight or car ride, make sure your medication is accessible. Don't pack it in a suitcase you not have access to.

Safety Issues

Tourists are often victims of crime, and seniors can be especially attractive to pickpockets, thieves and muggers. There are some things you can do to protect yourself while traveling though.

• Avoid being out at night particularly if you will be out by yourself.

• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry that is easy to spot.

• Carry a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash to turn over to thieves. Hand it over to muggers and save yourself the aggravation of losing your wallet.

Hotel Safety

Protecting your belongings while you are staying in a hotel or motel is a matter of a few simple precautions.

• Never leave cash, traveler's checks, credit cards or valuables in the room when you are going to be away. Either carry them with you or have them locked in the hotel safe.

• Unpack your suitcase and then lock it so a thief cannot use to haul away your possessions.

• Keep your room door locked at all times and do not open it unless you are certain of who is requesting entrance. If someone identifies themselves as hotel staff, call the front desk to verify it before opening the door.

Automobile Safety

Whether you drive to your destination, rent a car or travel by taxi, there are some tips seniors can follow for staying safe and making the most of their travel plans.

• Get a map. Mark the map with the location of your hotel, the hospital and police facilities. If you are traveling outside the country, mark the location of the embassy on your map.

• Keep the car locked at all times. Avoid leaving signs that you are a tourist in plain sight. Travel brochures, maps and cameras should be stored out of sight.

• At the hotel, park in the facility's garage. If one isn't offered, park in a well lit location.

• Check local driving laws and make sure you are in compliance. Some countries require that visitors have an international driver's license. Others prohibit driving by anyone over 70 years of age. If you are visiting another state, check out the local driving laws in advance.

Here are some sites I recommend for other tips for traveling seniors:

Travel Information for Senior Citizens

Travel and Recreation for Seniors

Better Health Channel - Tips for Travelling Seniors