Let’s Go! Tips for Traveling This Year

Travelers over 50 are getting back out there more and more, after two years of curtailing trips because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Domestic travel is more popular than international, marketing information shows. And many older people are more excited about road trips than flying.

There’s so much to do  Grandkids, golfing, Broadway shows…?

Are you ready, too?

Let’s review a few points to make sure you enjoy your traveling this year.

Top 10 Tips for Traveling This Year

1.      Stay fit or get fit. Traveling requires stamina, strength and flexibility. Think about walking through airports and stowing luggage, just for starters. We’re here to help no matter what your current fitness levels or travel plans are.

2.      See your doctor. Get a checkup. Make sure your prescriptions and vaccinations are current. That could include boosters for Covid, which still isn’t over.

3.      Pack some Covid tests. Wear masks when you want to; even though they’re not required in as many places, there’s nothing wrong with adding that layer of protection.

4.      Plan rest days or sick days. With all the excitement, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, and we’re still vulnerable to common colds and other non-pandemic ailments. So don’t cram your calendar full every single day.

5.      Consider renting a home via Airbnb or a similar service, if hotels still seem uncomfortable.

6.      Rental cars are scarce, so plan ahead. You might need to explore Turo.com, which has emerged as sort of an Airbnb for driving.

7.      While you’re away, remember to drink plenty of water, get enough rest, and eat well.

8.      Consider making refundable reservations, and ask about cancellation policies.

9.      Incorporate exercise into your travel, depending on your plans. If your trip is to hike the Appalachian Trail, you don’t need to find a gym. But if you’re traveling to watch ballgames or musicals, then use your hotel gym or ask your host or hotel concierge for a local recommendation. Pack handy resistance bands to use anywhere.

10.  Let go and enjoy yourself!

Your Travel Budget Might Be Bigger This Year

Before 2020, statistics showed that Baby Boomers typically made about five pleasure trips a year and spent more money than other age groups on leisure travel.

 
Particularly after 50, we’ve got to stay fit so we’re ready for the opportunities of this kind of travel.
 

In 2021, more than half (51%) of older travelers say they took fewer trips than anticipated according to AARP. The organization also reported that two-thirds of Americans over 50 plan to travel this year; 77% feel vacations are safe compared to 40% last year; domestic and foreign trips alike are approaching pre-pandemic levels.

And many of us have more money in our travel budgets, since we haven’t been traveling as much these last few years..

Come see us and share your travel plans. We’re here to build your strength, particularly in your legs, core and back;  develop your stamina; and keep you limber.
 
You’ll need all of that no matter where you’re going!