When people retire, they have more time to pursue their interests and dreams. They also have more time to travel. Blessed with higher spending power and other incentives, more and more senior citizens are traveling. Here are some useful travel tips for senior citizens, including the purchase of senior travel insurance:
Making Plans: To have a memorable and stress free holiday, it’s necessary to make plans. For senior citizens, planning is especially important because there are many more things to consider. As time passes more quickly as one gets older, it’s also helpful to plan the itinerary in detail, allowing ample time to enjoy a certain place of interest at a leisurely pace. Make flight and hotel bookings early and ask about area attractions.
Concessions and Discounts: In an effort to reach out to senior citizens, many players in the travel industry offer special concessions and discounts to draw them in. Senior citizens aged 62 years or older can take advantage of discounted airfares from most airlines. There are also restaurants and hotels that offer special concessions for senior citizens so it’s worthwhile to seek out these places.
Identity Theft and Money Issues: According to the Federal Trade Commission, more than 10 million Americans fall victim to identity theft each year and 40% of these cases involve senior citizens. As a precautionary measure, senior citizens are advised to carry not more than two credit cards and only the identification cards that are the most important. If you lose your credit cards, call your bank and cancel the cards as soon as possible. Don’t carry too much cash or wear too much jewelry because you may be a target for crooks. Make special effort to protect your Social Security number and personal information.
Senior Travel Insurance: As with all travelers, senior citizens should not overlook the matter of travel insurance. If you are going to travel abroad, explore the option of acquiring travel medical insurance so you are covered in case medical assistance is needed. Medical bills in some countries can be unbelievably high so it’s best to be properly insured.
Maintaining Communication: It’s important to maintain communication with family and friends so they know where you are and how you are doing. To facilitate open communication, remember to bring your mobile phone along. In case of emergencies, inform your family members so they can arrange for assistance.
Pack Lightly: Don’t pack as many things into your luggage as possible. It’s not to go on vacation and drag around heavy suitcases that you cannot carry. The last thing you want to do is injure yourself with a heavy suitcase. Make sure to pack your medications preferably in a carry on, should your luggage get lost.
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