This blog post was updated on August 2, 2024.
If you’re retired, over the age of 65, or simply wishing to set out and see the world in your Golden Years, we’ve got some tips for you if you have decided to travel on your own.
But we get it: the mere thought of hopping on a flight to explore the world by yourself may seem a bit daunting at times. But taking a trip alone can offer you amazing opportunities for self-discovery, relaxation, and expanding both your world view and your social circle. As a senior, you have earned the freedom and time to travel as many days as you’d like and spend that time anywhere in the world.
But, before you set out, just know there are a few things to consider. Keep reading on to find out what every senior solo traveler should do before taking to the skies.
Purchase Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a top priority for any senior eager to go on a solo vacation. Since you might require more care than other vacationers, a comprehensive travel insurance plan can provide you with much needed peace of mind, letting you focus on enjoying your trip instead of worrying about anything that might go wrong. The best travel insurance policies not only cover medical emergencies but also help you cover costs related to everything from trip cancellations to lost luggage.
Also, travel insurance can be especially useful if you are traveling internationally given that most health insurance plans –yes, including Medicare — cannot be used outside of the United States. Some policies will even reimburse you for pre-booked activities like tours, cruises, and other excursions should circumstances like ill health or a natural disaster force you to cancel at the last minute.
Plan Accommodations in Advance
Do you have a hard time climbing stairs or walking long distances? If so, be sure to plan ahead. Choosing the right accommodations for your needs is one of the most essential steps in making your solo trip a success. Carefully researching and planning your accommodations in advance ensures that you’ll have a comfortable stay and avoid any unnecessary last-minute stress.
When choosing the right accommodations, it is important to remember that many hotels offer senior-friendly rooms aimed at providing guests with maximum accessibility. If this is a top concern for you, be sure to ask for a room on the ground floor or one that is close to the hotel’s elevator bank. When looking into a hotel, consider its outside layout as well. Properties located on a hill or those that can only be accessed by climbing steep stairs can present a range of accessibility problems to seniors.
Travel During Off-Peak Times
Full flights, packed streets, busy tourist attractions…that’s what you DO NOT want while on a solo trip. Traveling during the off-peak season offers plenty of advantages, the biggest being not having to put up with large crowds. After all, fewer people means that you can look forward to enjoying a more intimate experience on your trip. Whether you hope to explore the halls of an art museum or check out a restaurant that has earned rave reviews, going during this time of year allows you to enjoy your trip without having to wait in long lines or compete for space.
Smaller crowds also allows for a greater degree of spontaneity, giving you more options for things that you want to do and places that you want to see. Besides, everything — from flights to hotel accommodations to guided tours — is cheaper during the off-season, so you’ll have more money to work with in your vacation budget.
Pack Light and Smart
When packing for a solo trip, always try to pack light and concentrate only on necessities to make your luggage more manageable. You don’t want to be hauling a heavy suitcase up the steps of a crowded airport or train station. As you pack, ask yourself if you will really need each item for your trip. While you may look good in that new business suit, if you don’t think you’ll have the opportunity to wear it, leave it at home and save the space in your luggage.
In general, travel gurus suggest that seniors bring two pieces of luggage on a solo trip. A rolling suitcase can make going through airports by yourself much easier while a smaller carry-on bag can be useful for safely stowing your daily essentials.
Avoid Public Transportation
At last, you’ve finally arrived at your dream destination… so why stress over how to get around town? Instead of wasting time and energy searching for the nearest train or bus stop, consider hopping in a taxi or ordering a rideshare service. It’s a much better option than trying to navigate an unfamiliar city on foot. Taxis and rideshares are readily available and can take you directly to your destination without the hassle of public transportation. You’ll save time, avoid getting lost, and have more energy to enjoy your trip. Whether you’re heading to a popular tourist spot or just exploring the local scene, a cab or rideshare can make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Make the most of your adventure by choosing a convenient and stress-free way to get around.
Stay Connected
While many seniors go on solo trips to maintain their sense of independence, it is nevertheless important to stay connected with your family and friends for an added layer of security. Along with preserving a line of communication in the event of an emergency, staying connected with your friends and relatives gives the most important people in your life an added sense of reassurance that you are having a good time on your vacation and not experiencing any hardship.
Many seniors opt to jot down their itinerary and leave it with their most trusted friend or family member so your loved ones know where you are each and every step of your trip. Likewise, a quick call or text when you return to your hotel room each night can also help keep your loved ones in the loop.
Engage in Group Activities
Just because you’re going on a solo trip doesn’t mean you have to be alone! Many seniors who enjoy their independence still choose to join tours and other group activities to make their vacation more enjoyable. Group travel offers plenty of advantages indeed. For starters, you’ll benefit from the safety of numbers, which can be reassuring when exploring new places. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet new people and make lasting friendships.
Another great perk is the special discounts often available to groups, making your trip more affordable. Joining a group can definitely enrich your travel experience and provide you with the best of both world: independence and companionship. So, consider looking into group tours or activities when planning your next adventure.
Learn Basic Local Phrases
Communication is an important part of any vacation but can take on new importance when you’re flying solo. If you’re planning to visit a non-English speaking country, take the time to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Along with simple greetings, focus on phrases that will help you when ordering food, asking for directions, and requesting other forms of assistance.
Seniors who are taking medication or have a wellness issue should also consider learning a few health phrases to be able to alert doctors and pharmacists to their condition. Learning these types of phrases can facilitate smoother communication and make your trip a much more enjoyable experience.
If you’re worried about mastering the basics of a foreign tongue, remember that you always have the option of downloading a translation app like Google Translate to your phone. Translation apps can be a massive stress reliever for vacationers traveling to foreign nations and can even be used when you don’t have internet service, so keep that in mind too!
You Might Also Enjoy: How to Avoid the Most Common Senior Travel Mistakes
Stay Open to New Experiences
Lastly, partaking in solo travel is a great way to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. This needn’t necessarily involve strapping on a helmet and engaging in pulse-pounding adventure activities — although this is perfectly cool, too — being adventurous can be as easy as exploring the neighborhood around your hotel and seeing what piques your interest.
Maybe you’ll come upon a nice bistro that introduces you to your new favorite food or find that you’re only steps away from a museum that exhibits fantastic regional art. Leaving yourself open to new experiences helps you forge unforgettable memories and will leave you with fresh ideas for your next excursion across the globe.
Of course, a great way to find out about interesting activities in your destination is to talk to locals. Ask a hotel clerk if they have any recommendations or start up a conversation with your waiter. Along with getting a glimpse into the day-to-day life of residents of your destination, you may also find out about a great spot off most tourists’ radar or a special event being held while you’re in town.
FAQs:
Q: What documents should I carry when traveling solo as a senior?
A: Always carry your passport, any necessary visas, travel insurance details, a list of emergency contacts, and any necessary medical information. Having photocopies of these documents is also helpful.
Q: How can I ensure my safety while traveling alone?
A: Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member, keep your valuables secure, stay in well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone at night. Consider carrying a personal safety alarm.
Q: What should I pack for my solo trip?
A: Pack light, focusing on essentials. Include medications, comfortable clothing, travel-sized toiletries, and important documents. A small first-aid kit and a list of emergency contacts are also recommended.
Q: What are some tips for managing medications while traveling?
A: Keep medications in their original containers, bring enough for the entire trip plus a few extra days, and carry a copy of your prescriptions. Pack them in your carry-on bag to avoid losing them.
Q: How can I find senior-friendly accommodations?
A: Research hotels that offer senior discounts and have accessibility features such as elevators, ground-floor rooms, and accessible bathrooms. Reading reviews can also help you choose suitable accommodations.
Q: What should I consider when booking flights?
A: Look for direct flights to minimize travel stress, choose airlines known for good customer service, and request any necessary assistance ahead of time. Consider travel insurance for added peace of mind.
Have any other senior solo travel tips you want to share? Let us know in our comments section below!
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