We all know that getting older doesn’t stop you travelling and exploring abroad – in fact, the over 50s make up over 35% of all overseas travellers today. You’ve worked hard your whole life and with less ties than ever, now is the perfect time for packing your suitcase and seeing the world. There’s a huge range of options available for the older traveller, from backpacking to luxury cruises, but preparing for your trip takes a lot of organisation and planning. So while you’re showing no signs of slowing down your travel plans, there’s no reason that you can’t make the whole process a little bit easier for yourself.
Use a holiday reviews and hotel reviews site
It’s a good idea to check the latest reviews about the place where you are staying and using a good holiday reviews and hotel reviews website where the reviews have been written by independent travellers means that you should get an objective opinion. Tripadvisor is of course the best known site, but there are other options. And of course, for the more mature traveller, reading the reviews here on silvertraveladvisor means that the review has been written by someone like you. Our holiday and hotel reviews are frequently complimented as being not only independent but very helpful and relevant.
Enjoy your freedom
If you’re retired, or no longer need to fit around the needs of children, then book outside of school holidays for a cheaper and less crowded trip.
If you’re happy to leave your trip to the last minute then keep an eye out for late bird deals and offers on breaks to make a saving on your holiday.
Where to go?
It’s easier than ever to travel and the world is your oyster, but make sure you pick the right destination for you – will you be able to handle extreme heat, poverty, basic transport or long flights? Do you get seasick or tire easily? It’s important to bear all these factors in mind when choosing a destination.
There may be plenty that you want to see and do, but be careful not to push yourself too hard and always maintain an awareness of your fitness limitations and what it is that you want to get out of your trip – you are likely to have far more fun if you do.
Our readers often view us as the silver tripadvisor and our holiday reviews make selecting the perfect destination easy.
Time is of the essence
If you do opt for a last minute trip, then make sure you have time to organise everything you need, particularly if you’re travelling long haul. Visas, vaccinations, passports, insurance and medication all take time to arrange and are vital to consider before you can take your trip. If you’re short on time it may be best to stick to short haul and European destinations so you don’t end up being left under prepared.
Let others do the hard work
Organising a host of transport or accommodation options can be a faff, so consider booking a full package tour, such as a coach holiday. Coach companies will collect you either from your home or from designated pick up points and then arrange all transportation and accommodation from there. You will be able to enjoy a range of locations but without the stress of having to arrange each segment of the journey. Similarly, for long-haul destinations, a cruise is ideal and means you can relax on a luxurious ship and wake up each morning in a new and exciting place.
Coach trips and cruises also provide great opportunities for socialising and a driver or tour guide will generally be available to show you around each area you visit and help with any issues you may have.
Packing to perfection
Most importantly, pack light! Check that your luggage weight is manageable before you set off on your trip – you don’t want to be aching by the time you reach your destination. Lighten the load even further at the airport and grab a trolley– even for luggage with wheels.
Pack plenty of light layers – that way you can stay prepared for all weathers and eventualities. Even in the hottest destinations evenings can be quite cool and air conditioning even cooler, so make sure you have warmer clothing in your case.
Take a good case
Whether you’re flying, driving or sailing, it’s likely you’ll need to lug your bags around somehow, so make sure your luggage is suited to your needs. Pick a case with a long handle and a distinct colour so it can be easily spotted in baggage reclaim or the hold of a coach.
Most cases have wheels these days, and four wheels are even better than two when it comes to travelling with ease, as four-wheelers allow you to move the case in all directions rather than limiting you to dragging it behind you. Extendable upright handles will mean you can travel with ease, with less strain on your back.
For your second bag or hand luggage, choose one which stacks conveniently on to your suitcase to save you performing a balancing act.
Medications and vaccinations
As with all travellers, the over 50s need to ensure they have all the relevant vaccinations before going abroad, particularly on long-haul journeys. Visit the NHS website for recommendations and further information. Take plenty of medication with you and consider asking your doctor for extra supplies – you won’t always be able to purchase it on your trip. Keep some in your suitcase and some in your hand luggage, just in case you end up being separated from your main case.
Keep moving
If you are seated for any length of time – particularly on a plane – make sure you stretch and stand up regularly. Older travellers are at a greater risk of developing deep vain thrombosis (DVT) and regular exercise and plenty of fluids are the best way of preventing it. Consider picking up a pair of flight socks – they’ll aid in the prevention of DVT, help keep swollen feet at bay and revitalise tired legs after a long day of sightseeing.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance can be slightly more expensive for seniors, but it is far more essential. You can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in Europe, which can be purchased online or from the Post Office. Although this is useful, it is definitely no substitute for personal holiday insurance. Visit a price comparison website such as Moneysupermarket.com for quotes, as costs can vary dramatically.
Stay safe
Plan your itinerary carefully and leave a copy of it with friends, along with contact details for your hotels or tour agent – it’s best that people know where you are and can contact you in an emergency.
To find a holiday from one of Silver Travel Advisor’s recommended partners, go to our Find a Holiday page.