The holidays are a great time to visit family.There are special considerations to take into account if you are a senior.If you're on medication, or have restrictions on your diet, you want to make sure you manage it.You should take advantage of the discounts you have.To avoid straining yourself, pack light gifts.As a senior, you can enjoy holiday travel with a little preparation.
Step 1: For travel, choose the right time of day.
You may not be able to get up early in the morning if you are older.Travel times that work for your energy level will assure a safe trip.If you're a senior, mid-morning or afternoon is the best time to leave.You should drive around this time of day if you're driving yourself.If you're taking a plane, bus, train, or other mode of transportation, look for departure times around this time.
Step 2: If possible, opt for non-stop flights.
If you are a senior, you may want to limit how often you travel.Non-stop flights are one way to look for this.Extra strain can be caused from moving your bags and getting on and off an airplane multiple times.When possible, look for shorter layovers if you have to.
Step 3: You should be on the lookout for senior discounts.
Senior discounts may be offered by airlines and other transportation options.You can save a lot of money if you get a senior discount for travel.You should always check to see if an airline has senior discounts.Senior discounts do not save you as much money as they say.FareCompare can be used to evaluate which discounts really save you money.
Step 4: Consider traveler's insurance.
As you get older, traveler's insurance may be worth it.Travelers insurance offered by airlines and hotels protects you against injuries and accidents.If you have an accident while traveling, you can get medical coverage from the traveler's insurance.If you go to a hospital out of state, it can cover your medication.If you're on a lot of drugs, traveler's insurance is important.When you travel, many insurance policies will cover the cost of your medication.
Step 5: It's important to get the proper disability options.
If you have any age related disabilities, make sure they are taken care of while you travel.You might need special accommodations on your trip.Check with the airline if you need to alert people to your disabilities.You can alert people of your disabilities online with some airlines.You have to call the airport.Before you go to the airport, make sure to book a wheelchair.You can call the airport or book online.Someone will bring the wheelchair to the gate after your flight.
Step 6: You should watch what you eat.
It's easy to forget about your restrictions when you're on vacation.Many people want to relax on a trip, but remember that diet restrictions don't take vacations.Don't forget to think about what you eat on your trip.On your trip, try to eat more.You can buy food at your motel or wherever you're staying.You have more control over the food you prepare.There are restrictions on food during holiday events.Request family members to make dishes that are compatible with your diet.Pack more food.You want to keep your energy up as you get older.You may not be able to find food that matches your diet in the airport or on the road.If you need to eat between meals, take some small snacks with you.Before you leave for a trip to learn how to manage your diet, talk to your doctor.Your doctor can give you advice on what kinds of food to order at restaurants that are safe if you have any existing medications.
Step 7: You should keep up with your medication.
If you're in a different time zone, it can be hard to remember your medication.Even if you're traveling, make sure you pack your medications and take them regularly.In case your luggage gets lost, never pack medication in checked luggage.You should always keep it in your carry on.If you need medical assistance on your trip, keep paperwork on you listing your medication.If you're traveling out of the country, make sure your medication is legal overseas.You may need paperwork from your doctor if you want to bring certain medications into a country.
Step 8: When possible, use senior discounts.
Senior discounts can be used while you are traveling.The holidays can cost a lot so it's a good idea to save money.Senior discounts can be found at hotels and restaurants.When you're traveling, ask about senior discounts.Ask before you make the reservations for some discounts.If you're staying at a hotel, you can ask for a senior discount at the front desk.When you get to a restaurant, you can ask if they offer senior discounts.
Step 9: Don't buy too many souvenirs.
It is tempting to stock up on souvenirs to bring home to friends and family.If you're a senior, you don't want too many items in your bag.If you have to carry things throughout the day and on your return trip, reduce your purchases.
Step 10: Select shoes that are comfortable.
While traveling, you will likely be walking more.If you're a senior, try to stay comfortable and avoid strain.Choose shoes that are comfortable.There are things that can cause injury when walking.If you want to keep your feet stable, go for flats and tennis shoes.
Step 11: Some gifts are easy to pack.
A lot of gifts can cause strain on your suitcase.If you are older, you want to lose weight.Lighter gifts are a good idea.You can keep gift cards in your wallet when you travel.
Step 12: Don't travel on peak travel dates.
The holidays can be very busy.Stress can be caused by a crowded airport.If it's possible, don't travel during peak days.If you are retired, you might be able to travel on a weekday.On a Tuesday, the airport will be less crowded than it would be on a Saturday.If you can take extra time to travel, book your tickets before the holidays.It will be more crowded at the airports a week before Christmas.
Step 13: At your destination, know alternate routes.
If you're traveling to a big city, you should know alternative routes.During the holidays, the roads, subways, and buses may get very crowded and you want to minimize the time you spend traveling.Look for scenic routes that are quicker on high traffic days.If you need a break, you can check out places to stop along the way.It can help to travel later in the day.You may be able to beat traffic and crowds.