Traveling when you’re older can sometimes require a bit of extra effort. But, with research, talking to your health provider, and proper planning, you’ll be globe-trotting with ease!
Do Your Research
When visiting a country, it’s important to know a few things to keep yourself both safe and respectful of the people. Some key things to research ahead of time include:
- Customs / Things not to do / How to dress respectfully
- Climate / What time of year is best to go to your destination
- Any political events that might influence your trip
- Language – a few key phrases to get you by!
- Fun stuff like things to do, culture, and food!
Visit Your Doctor
- Tell your doctor where you’re going, and ask for advice on what vaccinations might be needed.
- If you have a condition, ask your doctor about how to manage your illness while traveling. For example, those with diabetes might have to adjust their medication or insulin schedule.
- Make sure that they prescribe you all the medication you will need for the duration of the trip. Your medication may not be available at your destination.
Insurance
- To get the right insurance make sure that your medical insurance will also cover you for pre-existing condition.
- Pay special attention to ‘evacuation insurance’ in case you need to have transportation immediately to get medical attention and cannot fly commercially (in extreme emergencies).
Packing
- In your carry on, it might be a good idea to have all your medications (and anything else of importance) for the duration of the trip in case your luggage gets lost (it happens!)
- If you don’t like carrying luggage, considering getting a suitcase with wheels.
- Many people over pack while traveling. If you are going to be city-hopping, consider bringing fewer items.
Other useful Items
- Ereaders are great for travelling. Compared with the cost of books, they are relatively inexpensive and allow you to have easy access to hundreds (or even thousands) of books.
- Tablets and Ipads. They are light-weight and getting onto the internet can be really useful while traveling
- Buy a guide for where you’re traveling to, or perhaps download a travel ap/ information onto a tablet or your phone. A great list of applications for your phone is available at http://www.timeout.com/travel/features/1169/the-worlds-50-best-travel-apps
Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Deep Vein Thrombosis is a condition that occurs when a blood clot occurs in your legs or other parts of your body which can occur when sitting still for long periods of time. If you have a preexisting condition which puts you at risk for blood clots, talk to your doctor about reducing your chances of getting it. Studies have shown that by taking an aspirin you can offset the condition.
Safety While Traveling
- Make sure you know your travel route outside your hotel at night time, and avoid late nights if possible.
- Try getting a fake wallet with minimal cash and some old cards that are no longer of use
- Many people where a “money-belt” underneath their clothes for protection of passports, cash, and cards.
- Consider finding out where the Canadian Embassy is, if there is one at all in your travel city.
Health While Traveling
- Unless you are certain of the tap water in your travel country, consider sticking to bottled water.
- Unless you’re willing to risk it, avoid food from street vendors or shady looking restaurants
- Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables and raw foods if you question the health standards
- Be sure to keep track of your medications because it’s easy to forget when you’re having so much fun!
Saving Money
- Some place may have seniors discounts where you’re traveling. Keep an eye out and potentially save a bit of cash! Ex. European Rail tickets are significantly less expensive for seniors
- Don’t feel like booking expensive accommodation? Airbnb has sublets available worldwide. https://www.airbnb.ca/
Traveling when older might require a little more planning, but it can also be great fun, rewarding, and educational. Happy Travels!