Travel Advice For Over 50s
Travelling Tips
Are you over 50 and planning a trip? Whatever your age, it is worth planning any journeys in the UK or abroad thoroughly. Here are a few extra things to think about before you go away.
Are you on any medication? Be sure you have enough for the whole journey, including all your travel time i.e. Flights. Ask your doctor before you go if you need any extra amounts to cover you for the whole period of time you are away. Check in advance for any laws against taking certain medications into certain countries. It is a good idea to obtain a doctors note just in case.
Do you have any particular health requirements, or are you diagnosed with an illness? If so it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking any long journeys, especially flights. If you have an on-going condition you may need a doctors consent to travel. Consult your insurance company or travel advisor for advice. Don’t forget to visit your doctor or nurse before going away to make sure your vaccinations are all up to date – you made need boosters.
When taking a flight, regular exercise is important, it can help stop swollen ankles and any other complications. Ask the airline staff for guidance, they will be able to help. Preparation for the flight is essential; it is no good having your medication if you can’t get to it easily. Pack it in your hand luggage and make sure it is easily accessible to you during the flight. Also let anyone who is travelling with you know where it is, or if travelling alone let flight staff know where you keep your medication just in case you run into any difficulties. With some conditions it may be wise to seat yourself in the aisle seat so you can easily get out.
If you are taking a long journey by road make sure you stop for regular exercise breaks. It is important to get your blood circulating or even just some fresh air. Ask your coach company before you go if they cater for older people. Some coach operators have discounts for people over 60 years old.
When hiring a car it is best to arrange it before you leave as some car hire companies have age related restrictions or conditions. Shop around and talk to the hire companies about your age, your needs and what options they have available. If you need a car with adaptations for special needs ask the car hire company what they can provide.
The opinions expressed are those of the author only. The material is for general information only and does not constitute legal, financial or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation by an FSA authorised company where the market is FSA regulated.