Planning Smart for Travel
by Ashlynd Bright
Ah! The sights, the sounds, the people, the entertainment, the food… Traveling is a luxury that becomes more available after retirement – you have fewer obligations to others and more opportunity to treat yourself to learning experiences that can be exciting and fun. But whether you are going on a bus tour with some friends to a neighboring state or flying to another country with a spouse, it is important to be aware of the safety dos and don’ts of proper travel.
First of all you must consider where you wish to go. How near or far is it from your home? Is it a place you have never been to before? Regardless of the location you should take time to familiarize yourself with the area by reading up on its customs and local laws. Start at your library where you can rent books or use the internet to research. Also, consult with the travel agency or tourist bureau responsible for the trip. Keep track of news events going on in the area prior to your departure. This is especially important if you plan on going overseas, but even destinations within your region deserve to be checked out, too. Be sure to thoroughly read the travel brochure and know what is and what is not included in the package. Part of this is understanding the cancellation and refund policy. If you happen to change your mind you need to know how to approach the problem. Some cancellation penalties are steeper than others and vary from agency to agency.
Another important factor you should consider is the climate and day-to-day weather patterns of the area based on the season. What sort of clothing should you bring? Remember, comfort will be an essential part of your overall experience. If you wear eyeglasses take an extra set along to replace the first if something happens to them. You need to use sunglasses that protect you from ultraviolet rays (which can potentially cause cataracts and retinal damage) and you should avoid the sun when it is at its brightest between 10:00a.m. and 3:00p.m. Otherwise, remember to apply sun block with an SPF of at least 15.
Pack smart. Place heavy items in the bottom of suit cases. Use every inch of spare space in your luggage by rolling up sweaters and undergarments to fit in corners and placing hosiery in shoes. Shirts and dresses should be buttoned and folded close to the waist and seams. If packing liquids be sure to transfer them from glass to plastic containers. Avoid taking valuables and fragile items. Don’t over pack as you may be required to carry your own luggage at some point.
Most importantly carry all medicines in your hand baggage. You should keep them with you at all times. Also, appropriate photo identification and the name and number of a friend or family member to contact in case of emergency should be readily available in your wallet or purse. If you suffer from reactions to certain medication or have a distinct health issue (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, ect.) you may choose to sign up with a medical data service. Available at most pharmacies, this will provided you with a medical alert bracelet or card stating your unique condition, blood type, and allergies. It helps to make traveling less stressful and more enjoyable. If you are a Medicare recipient be aware that it does not cover fees for hospital or medical services outside of the United States.
You should never carry large amounts of cash with you when away traveling – it could be stolen or lost. Instead, you should try to take most of your money in traveler’s checks. They will be safer than cash for your trip because you are the only person who can use them. In addition, you can receive a refund if they become lost or stolen. These types of checks are available not only in U.S. dollars, but also in Canadian dollars, pounds sterling, and euro. You can get traveler’s checks in the amount of $20, $50, $100, $500, and $1,000. Remember, the smaller the check is the easier it is to cash. You should also bring a major credit card or two along just in case your expenses are higher than planned.
Last, but not least, you’ll want to contact a trusted person to keep an eye on your home while you are away. Leave that individual the key and a list of things that should be looked after such as pets and house plants. Traveling is an excellent way to spend your free time during any season, but it is something that needs to be planned for in advance. You will find it to be an exhilarating and fast-paced change of scenery from your own backyard. Just remember – put safety first and play by these simple rules to ensure getting the most joy out of your experience.
