Armchair Travel for Seniors: Travel Tips and Tricks (Part 3)

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 third in a three-part series. If you haven't already, be sure to read the first and second posts before beginning this one.

While on your travels

Sleeping, eating and water

Choose centrally located hotels near attractions and public transport, it makes it easier to get around and get back to your accommodation for rest throughout the day. Beware of street food as it may not be the most hygienic option and consider avoiding foods that might upset your personal ailments and allergies. Drinking local tap water may make you sick, so in some countries, it is important to drink bottled water, even while brushing your teeth and order drinks without ice.

Itinerary, walking and safety

Don’t plan a full schedule for every day of your holiday — it is important to include rest days or minimal activity days into your itinerary. Research local transport options, and consider buying tickets that give you access to different transport providers and multiple day tickets. Try organising guided day trips, or walking or foodie tours, as they are inexpensive and provide a great opportunity to explore a city or area with local knowledge from your guide.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking while you travel. You may want to think about hiring a wheelchair at some places like museums and theme parks to rest your legs.

Carry the contact details of the Australian Embassy with you at all times. If the city or country doesn’t have one, an alternative embassy might be available to help you, (for example, the British Embassy). When carrying your passport, make sure it is hidden under your clothes and consider carrying a hidden wallet in case of emergencies. Read up on common scams in the cities and countries you are travelling to and always use trusted and reputable organisations when booking tours and taxi services. If you are lost try asking someone in a uniform or utilise the list of tourism offices from around the world.

Money and shopping

Contact your bank prior to departure and report what cards you will be using, where you are going and the dates that you will be away. If there is any suspicious activity on your cards, banks will often automatically freeze your accounts, so to avoid this happening, be sure to contact them before you go.

Hotels and airports charge high rates for currency conversion so finding a bank or ATM is usually better for accessing cash while overseas. Be mindful of any international withdrawal fees that you may incur. Consider using a travel card instead — many are able to hold multiple overseas currencies, and charge smaller transaction or withdrawal fees. Also be aware of hold charges by tour companies and hotels, as these will impact your daily limit, so negotiate with your bank prior to departure about increasing your daily limits.

When receiving change from a purchase, ask for smaller notes as this will help when paying for local taxis and market stallholders. Before you leave, research what you can buy overseas and what the price difference is when compared locally. When purchasing items, especially electronics, make sure they work effectively before you buy them and that they are wrapped in front of you to ensure you are getting what you paid for.

Try your hand at bartering for a bargain, but always be respectful and considerate. You may be arguing over small amounts of money — is it really worth it? If negotiating doesn’t feel right, be prepared to walk away.

Language, places of worship and considerations

Try learning a few basic words in your destination’s main language. Words like ‘hello’, ‘please’, ‘thank you’, ‘goodbye’, ‘excuse me’ and ‘where is the bathroom?’ will go a long way to fitting in, and locals will really appreciate your efforts even if they are not perfect. Try the library database Transparent Languages Online to practice listening, reading, speaking and writing. Sign up to get access to use across multiple devices.

If you are visiting a place of worship, be aware of the dress standards. Footwear may need to be removed and women may be required to wear headscarves. Be aware of gestures and body language such as pointing and a thumbs up as they may have different meanings in other cultures, and you don’t want to be seen as rude or to offend people. When taking photos of people, it is appropriate to ask them first and be mindful of using your camera when around official people, landmarks and government buildings. If you are told to stop or delete photos, be respectful and do what is asked of you.

Don't leave home without...

Remember that your passport, tickets, medication, insurance and some money (USD and/or local currency) are essential documents and you should not leave home without them. It is important to have photocopies of all documents including tickets, travel insurance, identification, medical information, bank cards, passport, your itinerary and emergency contacts. These should be kept in your carry-on luggage and your main luggage and a copy shared with a loved one prior to departure.

Stay in touch

Aim to keep in touch with people back home, as they will worry about you and wonder whether you are enjoying yourself. You could do this through social media, sharing photos and the occasional message or call — make sure you are aware of your telephone and connectivity plans prior to departure by contacting your mobile phone company or turn off global roaming data before you leave. You may want to use an app, like WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom and free hotel Wi-Fi instead.

Embrace technology

If you are thinking of traveling with a device, make sure you know how to use it before you go. You don’t need to know everything; you just need to be confident that you can use and navigate your way around the device and apps without someone’s help. Ask your children, grandchildren or local library for technology support — they can help you download useful apps and teach you how to use them.

For more in-depth and detailed information aimed at seniors, read 50 travel tips for seniors, a free online book from Australian Seniors.

Struggling to get inspiration for where to go (when overseas travel opens up again)? Get inspired by joining our Armchair Travel for Seniors events.