You’ve spent many years working hard and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Many older adults are taking those vacations they’ve dreamed of for years – visiting family scattered across the country, traveling to new parts of the world, and sometimes just relaxing on a beach somewhere warm.
Before you skip town for your next adventure, travel smart by keeping these tips in mind.
- Pack your medicine and medical supplies in your carry-on luggage.
If you’ve already taken your prescriptions for the day, it’s easy to save space in your carry-on luggage by throwing them in your checked bag. But planes get delayed and bags get lost, so make sure you keep the medicine and supplies you need close at hand when you fly. Also, bring enough to last you an extra day or two in case your trip home is delayed.
- Keep your travel plans to yourself.
Thieves take interest in nice homes that sit empty, so don’t make your home an unnecessary target by sharing your travel plans online. Even if your account is private, Facebook isn’t as secure as you might think so wait until you return home to share tales of your vacation. Consider asking a family member or friend to check up on your house while you are gone. General home safety and maintenance concerns are a nonissue for Meth-Wick residents. Our private campus is guarded by 24-hour security staff and yards are maintained by our groundskeepers.
- Secure your valuables.
Consider purchasing clothes for your trip outfitted with lots of inside pockets for you to discreetly store money, credit cards and passports on your person. When you’ve reached your hotel, familiarize yourself with the safe in your room and keep your valuables inside, rather than sitting on the bed or a desk. Don’t put the “Clean My Room” sign on your door when you leave, as it alerts potential thieves that you aren’t in the room. Call down to the front desk when you leave to let the staff know they can begin cleaning.
- Don’t ignore your stomach.
Although it’s hard to admit, you’re not 25 anymore. Gone are the days where you could eat a gallon of spicy salsa and a whole pizza then wake up the next day ready for adventure. Trying new foods is half the fun of traveling but don’t disregard any dietary restrictions you might have. It’ll be hard to say no to that schnitzel, but it beats spending the rest of the day in your hotel bathroom when you could be wandering around a beautiful new city.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
Older adults are often targets for theft and fraud as they are perceived to be less aware of their surroundings and more likely to carry valuables, like cash and nice cameras. Familiarize yourself with the area and local public transit. It’s easy to grab a bag from the back of your chair or even between your feet. Keep purses and bags in front of you while walking and on your lap while sitting.
Safe travels this holiday season from all of us at Meth-Wick.