TRAVEL! It’s one of the brass rings of retirement but there’s more involved than grabbing your suitcase and heading out the door.

When we were young, that was fun and exciting to do. As we age, we need a plan!

Make a travel bucket list and start checking off destinations! The travel industry is anxious to help so if you have some limitations don’t let that squash your wanderlust. Go somewhere you’ve never been. Not sure where you want to go, make a list of where you don’t want to go. Either is a start.

Other areas of concern you need to address before you make your final decision!

Seniors on Cruise
Seniors on Cruise

How long will I be gone?

You may want to wander the world for weeks on end, or you may think a long weekend is just enough, so consider how long you think you can be away. If you have medical concerns don’t let that stop you. Talk with your health care professionals in advance. They will want to help.

Who will go with me?

Traveling companions can make or break a great trip. It’s important to think about who you are prepared to share living space with, meals with, and even possibly expenses. Knowing your tolerance and that of your traveling companions is important. If you prefer traveling alone or with just one other person this can streamline your trip. 

What should I pack?

Seniors Traveling with backpacks
Seniors Traveling with backpacks

Two words – pack light!

Check the weather for your destination. See if your accommodations have laundry service or washer/dryer. If traveling by air – make sure you pack a bag to “carry on” the airplane. In your “carry on” you should have:

  • a minimum of one change of clothes,
  • any prescription and over the counter medications in their ORIGINAL containers placed in a one quart clear freezer bag, (medication dosages put in a pill box will NOT go through security),
  • a photocopy of any prescriptions, and/or physician instructions,
  • a photocopy of all insurance cards and emergency contact information. 

Documentation for foreign travel. (A government passport is considered the highest level of identification by the federal TSA) I suggest making at least two photo copies of each of the following:

  • passport,
  • driver’s license,
  • Medicare or any other insurance cards,
  • travel tickets and boarding pass,
  • All confirmation receipts for events you have pre-scheduled for your trip. Keep one set in your “carry on” bag, a separate set on your person or in your purse. (Remember health coverage here in the US is not considered coverage overseas – so please make arrangements when traveling out of the country for trip insurance/health insurance).

Think comfort. A pair of comfortable shoes can save your life. Most important tip – if you don’t really need it don’t take it. You’ll have to carry it, pack it, unpack it, fold it, and sift past it so if it’s not essential leave it at home.

Should I set an itinerary?

Yes, yes and yes! You can always adjust the itinerary if you find something off the beaten path that’s a must do. An itinerary means that you can go ahead and book in advance the best reservations, excursions, and get the best tickets. Read TripAdvisor @ www.tripadvisor.com. Real reviews from real travelers!

(Always give a photo copy of your itinerary with phone numbers and addresses of where you will be to your emergency contact)

Should I consider a Tour or a Cruise?

Seniors on a Cruise
Seniors on a Cruise

Absolutely! Let someone else do the homework. A tour or cruise is planned, operated, and staffed to provide the best experiences. They also have the people to handle unforeseen circumstances that might arise. Travel being handled by a professional could be the perfect combination of escape and security.

So, make a plan, grab your bags, and pack your comfortable shoes, there’s no substitute for the new experiences that travel can bring. 

Bon Voyage,


Cyndi Caldwell
Certified Senior Advisor

As a Certified Senior Advisor – Cyndi is on a mission to advise Seniors and their family members on viable options for Senior Living, Senior Care, Dementia Care and Boomer Life! Her extensive experience comes from having worked and trained with the finest providers in the industry – Bell Senior Living, Five Star Senior Care, and Seniors Helping Seniors. Retired now and enjoying the “Boomer Life” Cyndi continues to advise seniors and their families as they navigate through the process of aging. 

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by our writers belong solely to them
and do not represent LKNConnect.com, its publisher or its staff.

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