See the World – Ideas for Senior Travellers.

6  Travel Tips for Seniors

1.   Consider mobility and health concerns, budget, and interests. Trusted travel website Travel + Leisure has rounded up a list of senior-friendly travel groups that include adventurous options such as ElderTreks to Senior Cycling which offers bicycle tours for active adults over 50. There’s something for every taste on the list.
2.   Always get travel health insurance. Travel can be expensive, and if there are non-refundable costs involved, should an unexpected health issue arise you don’t want to be caught unprepared. Always go directly to a health insurance broker, rather than booking through the cruise, group, etc.

Before jet-setting anywhere, it’s also always important to check with your trusted healthcare professional to ensure you are physically capable for the trip. The conversation can also cover adapting medications for different time zones, if vaccinations are necessary, and a doctor’s statement about knee or hip implants that could pose a problem with airport security alarms.

3.   Make special requests by phone! Yes, booking online is quick and easy if you’re tech-savvy, but making special requests such as wheelchair assistance or pre-boarding, it’s always better to speak with someone at the airline, travel group, hotel, or activity.  
4.   Consider an organized tour or cruise. Especially for seniors with mobility issues, cruises are a wonderful way to get the whole travel party together in one place with the least amount of fuss: Simply settle on board, and let the all-inclusive fun begin!
5.   Plan to take it easy. Travel on its own is exciting, and the change in routine can be tiring for older adults. Go easy, and recognize that rest is part of the vacation. 
6.   Travel in off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and extreme summer or winter weather (depending on where you’re going), but remember to check the off-season hours of the tourist sites you plan to visit so you’re not missing out on what you wanted to see most.

Senior Air Travel Tips

Travelling by air comes with its own whole set of senior-friendly tips!

•     Always check for a seniors’ discount. Some airlines such as United Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines, offer reduced fares; the wait time on a call will be worth it as they’re not always advertised online.
•     Invest in the proper gear: durable yet lightweight luggage, a suitcase marker for easy recognition, and a travel pillow and blanket for comfort.
•     Check-in in advance online to avoid spending unnecessary time on your feet at the airport. Even though you’ll get an e-ticket this way, always print your boarding pass so you’re not struggling last minute at the airport if things aren’t loading on your phone.
•     Never put important documents in checked baggage!
•     Most airlines allow canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and electric scooters at no extra cost. Check with your specific airline well before your departure date as to their rules.

Love to travel but can’t leave home?

There are many ways to see the world, even if you can’t get away.

• Be an armchair traveller. There are many virtual tours you can enjoy right from the comfort of  your living room. 
• Share pictures and memories of past trips with friends and family.
• Play tourist in your own town. Many of us have explored the sites others visit our town to see! Getting out to local attractions or your city’s hidden gems can be just as rejuvenating as hopping a plane to far-off locales.

Wherever you travel, Bon Voyage!