Summer is a great time to get out and explore the world. Whether you're off to a relaxing beach or bustling town, any type of travel requires proper planning. And, it can pay off when you put a little extra time and attention into your preparations. For one, you'll feel more at ease about your trip knowing you've thought through every detail. Also, as part of the 55+ crowd, you can take advantage of several travel perks and discounts. With this in mind, we've pulled together a list of several ways you can properly prep for the most enjoyable trip!
Many places, including restaurants, museums, parks, train tickets, and other attractions, have discounted ticket prices for seniors. In fact, this site has an entire list of travel-related discounts just for seniors. If there's a specific place you'd like to visit or company you prefer to do business with that's not on the list, give them a call. Senior discounts aren't always listed on websites or brochures, so it never hurts to ask before purchasing. Also, be sure to carry your passport or ID with you to claim those great benefits in person!
If your plans require air travel, did you know you can breeze through airport security by enrolling in the TSA PreCheck service? It allows approved travelers to experience faster, more efficient TSA screenings at participating US airport checkpoints. All you have to do is pre-enroll online, then schedule a quick fingerprinting appointment. Once you're enrolled, you get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to use when you book a flight. This allows you to walk right through the designated TSA PreCheck lines at the airport with no need to remove your shoes, belts, jackets, laptops, or 3-1-1 compliant liquids. Nice, right?
There are hundreds of locations to do this, so it's easy to find one convenient for you. Visit this link to find enrollment services near you.
Imagine how helpful it would be to arrive at your destination without carrying heavy luggage or bulky golf clubs. There are now delivery services like Luggage Forward and ShipGo that transport baggage to hundreds of countries and destinations worldwide. They deliver right to your hotel or cruise, and it allows you to lighten your carload or walk through airports without excess gear.
Traveling typically requires extra walking, so it may help to pack compression socks and supportive shoes that cover the entire foot. If you need a new pair of good shoes, buy them early so you have plenty of time to break them in without getting blisters. It may also help to bring a trekking pole to use when walking through city streets or other areas where the ground may be uneven. Also, if you'd rather not have to take the stairs or elevator at your hotel or condo, request a room on the first floor. It's your trip, so make it as comfortable as you can!
Most credit card companies prefer for you to call to let them know when and where you'll be traveling to ensure your cards will remain active and accessible while you're away. So, add that item to your pre-planning checklist. It's also good to make copies of your credit cards, passport, and driver's license. Have one set of documents on hand and leave another set of digital copies at home, maybe with a family member. That way, if anything gets lost or stolen, you have quick and easy access to your information.
AARP suggests taking a full supply of your medications with you, and leaving them in their original containers. Finding a pharmacy and filling a prescription in a new town can be time-consuming, and that's no fun on vacation. Also, pack plenty of your nonprescription medications (such as vitamins and supplements) to ensure you have the same brands on hand that you're used to taking. If you wear hearing aids, bring spare batteries as it can sometimes be challenging to find specific sizes in other places, especially if you're traveling overseas. That way you're all set and can simply focus on living in the moment!
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We hope you enjoy planning your next adventure. Travel and adventure are so good for the soul. For more travel tips, you may enjoy this blog post we shared about how to make pre-trip planning a little more fun. You may also be interested to know we offer a Celebrate Life Travel Program at Resort Lifestyle Communities. This is one of our most popular features and allows residents to be a guest at any RLC community across the country, at no charge, for up to five nights. All the comforts of home are included because you are home.
To download a map of our locations, click here. For more information, visit our website or contact a community near you. Here's to independent living to its fullest!
Resort Lifestyle Communities (RLC) develops all-inclusive resort-style communities to provide a relaxing and worry-free retirement lifestyle for residents. The comfort, safety, and enjoyment of our residents are our top priorities. For this reason, every community is staffed with live-in managers, a 24/7 emergency alert system and concierge service, gourmet chefs, housekeepers, maintenance staff, a full-time lifestyle director, and more. For more information about RLC, visit RLCommunities.com.
