How to travel as an older tourist

There was once a time where you would pick a last-minute holiday on a whim, and jump on a plane the next day.

Unfortunately, we don’t stay young forever and as we get that little bit older, a few more considerations start to enter the picture.

These considerations tend to revolve around safety and through the course of today, we will take a look at four areas that older travelers really should look into to ensure they get the best from their getaway.

Take a paperwork first approach

It doesn’t matter how old you are, paperwork is a topic that none of us are particularly happy with doing. The problem is that this is essential, particularly as the years start to catch up with you and the risks, as much as we hate to say it, increase.

So, what do we mean when we talk about paperwork? Insurance is the obvious one and is it necessary when travelling, we would recommend that you check Staysure for insurance when travelling over 50. This is just the tip of the iceberg though, and you can go as far as informing your embassy that you have arrived in your destination of choice in case of those worst-case scenarios. When they have this information it can just make some people feel a little more at ease.

The perils of packing

No, we’re not going to tell you how to fold your clothes efficiently, there are plenty of guides out there that will tell you that.

Instead, this next tip is just to pack lightly. The last thing you want is to be lugging huge suitcases every day, but this is exactly what can happen if you don’t plan adequately. Or, if you are traveling for a long period of time, at least make sure that your carry-on case for the plane is light enough so you’re not met with utter exhaustion by the time you land.

Be smart with your choice of accommodation

As we all know, the accommodation landscape has turned on its head over the last few years following the emergence of Airbnb and the like. These increased options mean that being smart about your choice should, theoretically at least, be easier than ever before. By this, we’re suggesting that you don’t opt for 10th floor apartments when you know that the Trip Advisor reviews say the lift is regularly out of action, or you don’t opt for somewhere with a walk-in shower which has made your routine much easier over the years.

In other words, think smart about your choices.

Always take the weather seriously

Finally, whether it’s the heat or opposite, always make sure you take the weather seriously. The sun should be your biggest concern and while sunscreen can make all of the difference, it’s even better if you can stay out of the heat during the peak hours of the day (between 12 and 3pm).

For winter, just tread carefully. Wrap up well whilst also always consider what’s underfoot, as falls during this season are common amongst everyone (regardless of their age).