Whether this summer’s plans include visiting the kids or grandkids or taking the trip of a lifetime, there are discounts and services available that make traveling as a senior a golden opportunity.
Reduced fares are offered for whatever mode of transportation you may choose — be it land, sea or air, but the age definition of “senior” may differ from company to company — from 55 to 60 to 65. Most carriers also have travel partnerships with hotels and resorts that provide discounted rates to senior citizens.
If you want to travel with others your age, start planning your journey with a trip to your local travel agent for current information on tours geared toward seniors. And if you’re a spur-of-the-moment adventurer, there is no better time than the retirement years to take advantage of the many last-minute deals airlines offer online to destinations both near and far.
Wherever your travels take you, planning ahead to be sure you’ve packed properly or made arrangements for extra assistance if you have a disability will help to ensure a bon voyage.
Most airline Web sites offer travel advice that’s worth checking out. Delta’s tips include:
• Keep your medications in their original pharmacy-labeled bottles to avoid problems with Customs.
• Pack at least a week’s supply of your medications in your carry-on bag.
• Take an extra pair of glasses. If you wear contacts, make sure you bring sufficient cleaning supplies for the entire trip.
• Consult your doctor about any changes in timing of your medication, especially insulin, when you cross time zones.
U.S. Airways has some additional tips on traveling safely and comfortably.
• Get a good night’s sleep before a trip.
• Dress comfortably and wear loose-fitting clothes (avoid materials that don’t stretch, since the body expands slightly in flight).
• Pack a light carry-on bag. Checking luggage might be helpful to avoid the strain of handling bags in the airport and onboard.
• Jot down important medical and insurance information, and keep it in your wallet or purse for quick reference.
• Eat light on the day of a trip. And if you have a dietary restriction, make sure you contact the airline at least 24 hours in advance to arrange a special meal.
Southwest’s travel tips for seniors include:
• Always put your name and address on both the inside and outside of all suitcases and travel bags. If you already have this information on your luggage, make sure the address is current.
• Leave all jewelry, medicine, eyeglasses, airplane tickets, money, passports, camera equipment and other valuables out of checked luggage. Carry these items with you.
• Do not lock your checked luggage. The Transportation Security Administration suggests that you do not lock your luggage in case it must be opened for additional inspection. Should the TSA forcibly open your bag, you assume liability for any damage that results. If you must fasten the zipper in some way, use plastic zip ties or cable ties that can easily be cut.
Travelers with special needs will find plenty of help available during their journey, as well. When booking reservations, be sure to make arrangements for wheelchair assistance, traveling with a service animal or using medical equipment, such as oxygen, in-flight. Staff is available to help make your trip safe and easy when given advance notice.
Those who feel like they need a little extra time to get on the plane and stow their carry-on can request priority boarding. Take advantage of this bonus to get comfortable and start your journey right.
Most important of all, though, may be giving yourself enough time to check your baggage, clear security and find your departure gate. Most carriers suggest arriving at least one hour prior to departure for domestic flights, two hours for international flights.