Summer is here! It’s vacation time, and for many, especially retirees, it’s travel time.

 

Reasons for travelling are numerous: to discover new cultures and develop respect for difference, getting out of our comfort zone and developing our ability to adapt, to forgeting everyday life. Not to mention that travelling is beneficial for mental health allowing you to better know yourself and increasing your self-esteem. The memory of a trip provides lasting happiness.

 

However, travelling at an advanced age has also its challenges. Because of the decrease in capabilities, everything necessitates more planning. For example, the elderly travellers have more difficulty to drive long distances and have to better organize their transportation. They have to manage their medication and are more prone to live with anxiety when confronted with novelty. Because their health condition may be more fragile, elderly travellers could benefit from a travel insurance.

 

This article will discuss how seniors can plan a trip. It will also deal with different travel options adapted to this age group.

 

 

How to plan a trip well ?

 

For a senior, planning a trip can be intimidating. It takes time and effort and there are several preparations. For example, saving money, research the destination, reserve the transportation and the lodging, etc. To plan a trip, you have to go a step at a time.

 

Step 1 - Brainstorm and write everything you have in mind: For example, this could be visiting Toronto, travelling by train, seeing the CN tower, spending a day at Niagara Falls, exploring Kensington Market, visiting museums and staying in nice three stars hotels.

 

 

Step 2 - Choose a specific travel goal, and this has to be realistic. For example, plan a week to visit Toronto and leave in the next three months. At this stage, we can create an itinerary.

 

Step 3 -Think about logistics. For example, trip dates, possible obstacles, the cost of the trip, etc.

 

Step 4 – Divide the preparations in small tasks. Create a detailed itinerary (what attractions to visit and when ?). Do a calendar with the dates of the trip. Reserve the train tickets. Reserve the lodging. To look after the last preparations: reserve the car rental if needed, schedule activities.

 

Step 5 – Make yourself notes, which calms the stress of travel: For example, in a calendar or on a to do list, so you don't forget anything. Inspire with visual reminders, like a map on which is traced an itinerary or nice pictures of the destination.

 

If these steps are complicated, it is also possible to do business with a travel agency. This makes the stay easier and more pleasant by taking care of all facets of the trip and it gives tips to travelers.

 

 

Different travel packages

 

 

Group travel

 

Safety and peace of mind are two factors sought after in this type of trip. It is really pleasant and reassuring to visit all the attractions of a region without having to worry about a precise itinerary and travel. You have to be sociable preferably, flexible and accept changes as well as follow instructions and schedules. Reservations are made without stress. In the places to visit, we often avoid line-ups at the ticket office.

 

 

Group trips can be tours with themes that bring together travelers with common interests: wines, historic excursions, religious tours, etc. During travel, people who already share a common passion become friends more easily.

 

On the other hand, group trips involve a certain promiscuity with the other participants, the only moments of intimacy are in the bedroom. Independent or shy people may have difficulty coping with this closeness.

 

 

Travelling with friends

 

Senior travelers can also travel with friends. At this time, it is important to make sure to share with friends a budget, interests and expectations that can be reconciled. Do not hesitate to take time alone during the stay to rest. In fact, flexibility, openness and communication are important ingredients when traveling with friends.

 

 

 

Travelling with family

 

Senior travelers can also travel as a family. For example, a senior can be accompanied by his or her son or daughter, who take care of the logistics. This enables the elderly person to have a free spirit and enjoy the trip to the fullest.

 

 

Cruises

 

A popular option suited to the needs of senior travelers is cruising. The latter combines comfort, practicality, variety and accessibility. Travelers only have to unpack their suitcase once, and they can visit multiple destinations and make various excursions to each port. Cruises are perfect for intergenerational travel, as they offer activities for all ages.

 

 

 

Resorts

 

The resort is another option suited to the needs of senior travelers. The resort includes the room, food and beverages as well as entertainment and activities. Staff can help book getaways and day trips.

 

 

All-inclusive packages

 

To avoid a total change of scenery, it is wise to choose an all-inclusive package. In an all-inclusive formula, meals, drinks, hotel and plane tickets are usually included, which takes away a lot of stress.

 

 

The caregivers of seniors who travel

 

The caregivers of the seniors can also have the right to travel despite the constraints related to their role as caregivers. Traveling allows them to recharge their batteries and thus be more willing to help later. However, they must put in place compensatory supports during the period when they are absent.

 

 

Conclusion

 

All in all, traveling as a senior comes with challenges. That’s why it’s important for senior travellers to plan their trip well. This involves brainstorming, choosing a specific and realistic travel goal, thinking about logistics, to divide the preparations in small tasks, and leave yourself notes. Senior travelers can also use a travel agency to reduce the stress. On the other hand, group trips, traveling with friends or family, cruises, resorts and all-inclusive packages are interesting travel options for this clientele.

 

 

In closing… Resources to consult when planning a trip

 

C. A. A.

It is a non-profit federation whose objective is to represent the motorists in order to defend their interests in terms of transportation, road infrastructure, the environment, prevention and safety, consumer issues, the economy and tourism.

 

www.caaquebec.com

 

voyage.qc.ca

It is a one-stop shop developed by the Government of Canada that brings together all information related to international travel. There is a section on senior travelers and how they can travel safely and healthily outside of Canada.