Whether you are retired or still working, hoping to travel with family, a partner, or solo—Travel and Leisure has a wealth of senior trip ideas for every variety of senior travelers.
Travel for Seniors
Senior citizens in retirement often have the freedom of an open calendar. Aim to travel during shoulder season (April through mid-June and September through October) to get the best weather, cheapest prices, and smallest crowds. Pack light and keep your baggage situation simple. If you have a connecting flight, avoid the hassle of transporting your luggage in between flights by checking it. At the airport you can request wheelchairs or transportation by electronic cart for increased mobility and safety. Remember to stay hydrated on long flights and, if possible, to take short walks to keep the energy flowing.
The money you can save on trip timing can help offset the cost of travel insurance, which is absolutely essential for senior citizens on vacation. (Medicare is not valid outside the U.S. in almost all circumstances.) Before departure, determine how your medical insurance works abroad—and supplement if it doesn’t. Evacuation insurance is particularly important, as that will cover the cost of transporting you or a loved one to medical care in an emergency. Bring an ample supply of your medications with you, if possible in their original bottles. The information on the bottle labels will make it easier to refill a prescription while away from home. Remember to make note of the generic names of your medications before you leave.
Vacations for Seniors
Whether you want an active, invigorating outdoors adventure, a leisurely cruise through Europe’s waterways, or a South Pacific beach vacation you’ve always dreamed of, T+L is here to help. Remember to ask for what you want and need. Discounts usually exist for seniors even if they are not posted. Concierges are often happy to move you to a ground floor room and save you a climb up the rickety stairs. For those who have the time, consider becoming a short term resident at your next travel destination. Rent out an apartment—maybe even swap for your own back home. Treat yourself to a bus or boat tour. Take a moment in a café to people watch.
T+L is here for all your senior travel needs. Check back in for the latest tips, recommendations, and news.
