Holiday travel gives you a chance to reconnect with loved ones and make memories you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re visiting family or getting away to somewhere new, traveling can make you feel more connected to yourself and those around you.
Here are some ways to ensure your upcoming holiday travels are smooth and stress-free.
Do: Plan Ahead
Doing your research and planning ahead gives you ample time to prepare. Last-minute changes and rushing through your preparations can cause mistakes or delays. It can also take away from your overall enjoyment of the trip.
- Book necessary travel and lodging. Secure your tickets and a place to stay in advance – six months ahead is a good rule of thumb. Look into accessibility accommodations, and call the hotel before you book a room to ensure they can accommodate a first-floor request and that they have elevators and wheelchair access, if needed.
- Create an itinerary. Research where you’ll be traveling and create a list of things you’d like to do during your visit. This gives you ample time to book tickets to special events, arrange transportation, and plan activities with family and friends. Include leisure and buffer time between activities in your itinerary to avoid rushing. Give yourself some free time during your trip to relax and recharge.
- Gather identification documents. Check that your identification is up to date, and make necessary arrangements if it’s not. Carry an emergency medical card with you during your travels in case health issues arise.
Do: Prioritize Health and Wellness
During the planning phase, research health precautions, as this varies by country. The CDC has a list of information on certain illnesses you can contract from different foods, drinks, and activities, and how to avoid them while traveling.
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your vaccinations, medications, and health precautions. They will be able to refill your prescriptions, administer necessary immunizations, and give you tips to avoid illness and health issues as you travel. For example, they may advise you to bring hand sanitizer, stay hydrated, and get up, walk, and stretch your legs often during long trips to avoid deep-vein thrombosis (DVT).
Do: Pack Strategically
To ensure you are prepared and comfortable during your trip, create a packing checklist beforehand, or find one online. You will want to pack according to the weather and your itinerary. To avoid overpacking, choose outfits ahead of time and pack items that can be mixed and matched. Travel-sized toiletries and multipurpose footwear can also save space. Opt for lodging that has a washer and dryer. Check that your bags match the size requirements for your transportation.
Do: Be Aware of Safety Concerns (But Also Have Fun!)
The best way to have a safe and fun trip is to be aware of any safety concerns ahead of time, and prepare for them.
- Consider your safety while planning activities. Do your research to ensure the activities you have planned won’t be a risk to your well-being. For example, if you’re planning a physically demanding activity like hiking, check that the trail difficulty matches with your skill level and that you have the supplies necessary to safely complete the journey. You may want to speak with your healthcare provider about certain activities, depending on your health status.
- Don’t post your travels on social media. It’s tempting to share your exciting trip on social media, however, you should avoid publicizing it until after it’s over. While you want to share your joy, this can tip criminals off that your home is unattended. When you leave, turn your alarm system on. You may even ask a neighbor or loved one to stop by and check in on your home every so often.
- Protect against fraud and theft. Older adults are often a target for theft or fraud while traveling. To prevent this, stay alert while you’re out. If you’re traveling abroad, consider wearing pick-pocket-proof attire and storing your valuables in a safe in your hotel. If you plan to use your debit or credit card, let the issuer know before your trip. Bring an additional card just in case, as they can turn off your card if you lose it or suspect fraudulent activity.
However, don’t let the stress of the unfamiliar hinder the joys of your adventure! Practice mindfulness throughout your trip to stay present and savor every moment.
Discover Your Next Adventure at Oak Trace
It’s easy to travel when you live in a community like Oak Trace. Just let the front desk know your plans and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from having a worry-free vacation. No need to have someone check on your home while you’re gone! We have you covered.
Holiday travel is exciting–but what if every day felt like an adventure? At Oak Trace, you have access to this reality at your fingertips. With numerous amenities, exciting activities, and engaging events, there are endless opportunities around every corner to make the most out of your life.
If you’re looking for a tight-knit senior living community in Downers Grove, Illinois, contact us today or complete the form below.
