As you get older you might have underlying health conditions that make travelling more challenging. Additionally, you can become nervous about the process of travelling. My parents are desperate to go abroad but only if we take them with us. They are in their seventies now and the thought of the paperwork, checking in and getting to the resort is very stressful for them. They want extra guidance and support. Health and worry can alter your experience of travelling. Below are some things to consider as a mature traveller.

Pre-trip preparation

As you get older you might find you need more pre-trip preparation.

Travel Insurance

Mature travellers are more likely to take out travel insurance. Whereas those aged 18-24 years old 40% choose to travel without. But just remember as you get older you might have to look for specialist travel insurance for over 50s with medical conditions. Just because of all your pre-existing health conditions.

If travelling in Europe, make sure you also have your European Health Insurance Card. These are completely free, but you will still need travel insurance it is not a substitution for that.

Destination Health Advice

Make sure you check the health advice for the destination you are visiting and plan accordingly. If a country requires any special treatment such as malaria tablets check with your doctor that these will work okay with your current medication. My parents have so many different tablets they take each day for all their health conditions. I am sure its similar for many older travellers so always seek the advice of a doctor if you’re not sure.

Make sure you also know what medical facilities there are at your destination and how to get to them.

Fitness To Fly

You could even book a Fitness To Fly appointment if you have an unstable medical condition. Not all doctors will offer these because they do not want to give you a certificate to fly and then be liable if something goes wrong. My husband works in a doctor’s surgery so I have some awareness of this. But you can get them done privately. It’s a good idea if you are concerned that an airline will refuse to let you fly. The extra paperwork will help make sure you catch your flight.

Copies of Prescriptions

Always take photocopies of your current prescriptions to take with you on your travels. Then if anything gets lost you can show what medication you need.

Stock Up

Some low-income countries experience medication shortages. Therefore, it’s a good idea to pack enough for your trip and not rely on being able to get something whilst you are away. On the other hand don’t over pack either. If your bags are too heavy, you risk injuries from lifting them.

On the trip

Compression Socks

Also make sure you pack compression socks for the flight. As you get older you are more prone to deep vein thrombosis. They are not the most comfortable to wear but they will give you peace of mind on the journey. Also do some calf muscles exercises on the flight.

Jet Lag

As you get older jet lag can get much worse. Your body gets tired much more easily. So, take extra precautions like not drinking alcohol on the flight and limit how much caffeine you have. Give yourself plenty of time to rest and recuperate when you arrive at your destination.

Be Realistic

I think its very important to be realistic when a mature traveller. You might not be able to do everything you want on your holiday. Make sure you have enough rest breaks, take time to get off your feet and restore your reserves.

My mum’s pace and my dad’s didn’t match on holiday. She wanted to do everything and was pushing him too hard. You have to be willing to compromise and go slower sometimes.

Even though being a mature traveller does have its challenges, as you can see from reading this article there is still plenty you can do to help the situation. There is no reason you cannot have a wonderful trip and continue to enjoy travelling for many years to come.