Armchair Travel for Seniors: Travel Tips and Tricks (Part 2)

Retirement is the perfect time to get out and see the world, visiting places that you have only ever dreamed about. Travel is a great way to broaden your horizons, meet new people, take part in different experiences and continue learning and growing later in life. But travel is often fraught with challenges — figuring out where to stay, how much money to bring, what to eat, which activities to do, and how you will get around. All travellers need to be prepared, so we've compiled some things to consider before and during your travels.

This post is the second in a three-part series. If you haven't already, read the first post, and be sure to come back on Friday for part three!

Before you go

Take advantage of the deals

You are not beholden to a work schedule or holiday season; you can explore anything and everything at any time. Many travel agents offer cheaper flights and holiday experiences at different times of the year, so if you like saving money on deals then this is a great option. You can also try booking holidays at World Travel Expos, but you need to be well prepared before you go. If you’ve travelled with a company before you may be entitled to a repeat booking discount, especially for tours or cruises. There are also companies and apps like Red Balloon and Klook, among many others, that offer deals throughout the year and cheaper ticket prices to venues and events. At the very least take your Seniors’ Card with you and ask about discounts when you buy your tickets — there is no harm in asking what is available to you.

Choosing your seat

When reserving a ticket on a flight, be sure to ask for a seat with extra legroom. If that cannot be arranged then consider an aisle seat. The freedom to move about is more easily managed from an aisle seat and it allows you to get up and stretch regularly without upsetting other passengers. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk for senior travellers, so it is important to move around and stretch often during the flight. Consider circulation socks and shoes that will ease discomfort and reduce potential swelling in the legs. For travellers with mobility issues, it is important to book a wheelchair through check-in. If you need special assistance, always inform the airline prior to departure.

Packing, crowds and the weather

You should consider the weather at your destination and carry lightweight options. Don't travel with too much jewellery, cash or material items and don’t take anything with you that is deeply precious — you don’t want to lose anything.

When in a foreign country it is best to blend into the crowd as much as possible, so avoid bringing attention to yourself or making yourself more susceptible to thefts and scams. Bring a handbag or satchel that can be worn across your body rather than on one shoulder, and never leave bags unattended or out of sight.

Ensure you pack a change of underwear in your carry-on luggage as well as essential documents and a small notebook with the hotel details. Take a spare pair of prescription glasses and include the script in case you need a new pair while you are away. If you wear hearing devices, take spare batteries with you. Clearly label your luggage with your name and address and make sure your luggage stands out on the baggage carousel by using coloured material around the handle or identifiable stickers.

Make sure you understand the destination country’s customs and avoid bringing items that are not allowed. Consider going at different times of the year if you struggle with crowds, heat, humidity or freezing temperatures. A shoulder season might be a better option, as well as outside school holiday times in Australia and overseas as there is likely to be fewer crowds.

Airport, flying and transfers

Get to the airport with plenty of time to spare before your flight. You'll often need more time than you think to check-in, get through customs, and find the right terminal and boarding gate for your flight without any delays.

It is advisable to avoid connecting flights where you can, particularly when there is limited time between one connection and the other — planes often get delayed and you don’t want to end up stranded in transit, so consider non-stop flights or staying for a day or two in a different country or region along the way. This breaks up a long journey and gives you the chance to see a different part of the world en route.

If you can afford it, consider booking a business class ticket for the extra space and comfort, or using frequent flyer points to access airline lounges.

Flying is dehydrating, so you'll need to limit the amount of alcohol you consume and drink plenty of water. Packing some healthy snacks in your carry-on luggage is also a good option, especially if you are required to pay for food on the flight.

Airline crew, airport staff, travel agents, information centres, etc. are available to provide support so don’t hesitate to ask them. Once you arrive at your destination it is worth booking a transfer from the airport to your accommodation. Having someone waiting for you is convenient and lessens the stress on arrival.

Come back on Friday for the third and final part of this travel series.