Retirement is when most people are free from many of life’s normal responsibilities. Those who have had children will find their children have moved out and are living their own lives, which means there is much more free time for an older person to spend on themselves.
With more free time, what better time is there to go on holiday? Unfortunately, many older people are of the opinion that holidays are reserved for the young. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, you are perfectly capable of getting out there and exploring the world well into your old age. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. Check out these top tips for travelling in your 70s.
Prioritise Your Health
Many over 70s are still fighting fit and ready to take on the world. However, aging does increase the risk of developing certain diseases and health conditions, many of which require regular management and medical attention. Accessing healthcare services abroad can be logistically difficult and also incredibly expensive. The last thing you want is to realise medicine that would be free or cheap back home is several times the price abroad.
This is why it’s so essential to get insured before your trip. You will have to find a provider who offers travel insurance that is tailored to over 70s. A good provider will cover any potential health expenses for those suffering from any pre-existing medical conditions, as well as for missed connections and lost baggage. It’s best to get your holiday insurance before your trip so you’ll be able to enjoy your holiday worry-free.
Choose The Right Destination
Gone are the days when our holiday options were limited to a few European cities and resorts. Now, we can fly to just about anywhere we can imagine. Even locations not accessible from your local airport can be easily reached through connecting flights.
As an older traveller, you’ll need to think carefully when deciding where to go on holiday. Generally speaking, an adventure holiday in the Amazon jungle or a Himalayan mountaineering expedition won’t be particularly suitable for elderly holidaymakers. Instead, opt for a city break in one of Europe’s many cultural hubs, or visit a luxury hotel in a beautiful coastal town. Cities and hotels offer both incredible comfort and accessibility. You’ll have everything you need nearby, without the need to travel far.
Get To The Airport Early
Airports are often the most stressful part of the whole holiday experience. You have to deal with large crowds, long queues, and invasive security checks, all with the fear of missing your flight hanging over your head.
In your younger years, you might have been capable of zipping through the airport at breakneck speed and making it onto your flight with time to spare. However, we slow down considerably as we get older, so it’s important you arrive at the airport early to give yourself plenty of time. What’s more, many airport processes such as ticket and passport checks are fully digitised and automated these days, which can be difficult to navigate for older, less tech-savvy travellers, giving you even more reason to arrive at the airport early.
Travel Light
How much you pack will largely depend on how long you are going away for, but it’s important to not overpack and avoid giving yourself several heavy bags to carry. You could be standing around waiting for a long time in the airport, and could be faced with a substantial walk to your hotel after you land. Carrying heavy bags around can be exhausting and can seriously impact your enjoyment of your holiday.
Conclusion
Don’t assume your travelling days are behind you just because you’re getting on in years. Use this guide to plan and prepare for the perfect holiday experience.
