20 Sneaky Travel Issues for Retirees
In 2022, there were 58 million Americans over 65 years old. The Social Security Administration (SSA) projects that this number will grow to 77 million by 2035. For many people, the best thing about retirement is traveling. Optical schedules allow retirees to finally explore the world, experience new cultures, and mark off those bucket list destinations. Vacations are exciting, but retirees may encounter travel challenges that may not be so apparent initially.
These are minor issues but can quickly turn into big headaches if unheeded, from health and safety risks to financial pitfalls. Here are 20 potential travel issues retirees encounter—and how to avoid them for a smooth, enjoyable experience.
Forgetting Travel Insurance
Medicare is a lifeline for retirees in the U.S. but doesn’t cover healthcare abroad. Experts advise purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect your investment and health from medical expenses, cancellation, and theft.
Leaving Mobility Assistance Unused
Long walks or stairs are unsuitable for people with limited mobility, and airport terminals and tourist attractions can include such walks. Many retirees don’t get far without complaining.
They are too exhausted even before vacation starts because they regret not asking for airport wheelchair services ahead of time. If you cannot walk long distances, book mobility assistance and ensure your accommodations are accessible.
Overlooking Medication Restrictions
Not all medications you rely on are welcome at international borders. Some countries, such as Japan or the UAE, have strict rules about importing prescription drugs with codeine, stimulants, or narcotics in them.
You should carry a doctor’s note and learn what medication laws exist for the country you plan to visit before your trip to avoid confiscation or a fine.
Underestimating Jet Lag
As we age, jet lag may hit harder! Travel changes sleep patterns in retirement and can leave older travelers sluggish and out of sync after crossing time zones.
The CDC suggests easing into new time zones by changing your sleep schedule two or three days before your trip. Stay hydrated before your flight, and get into the sun as soon as you land.
Ignoring Exchange Rates
You may be surprised to learn that using an ATM in a tourist-heavy location can cost as much as 10% more than the foreign exchange fee.
By diligently using ATMs from reputable, in-network establishments or withdrawing more considerable sums less often (avoiding unnecessary fees), you can save significantly throughout your trip.
Misunderstanding Credit Card Fees
Is it time to withdraw cash with your credit card? Think again. Credit card cash advance fees top out at 24%, a costly mistake if travelers don’t know better.
Instead, take a debit card to withdraw cash or opt for a card that does not charge foreign transactions.
Overpaying for Accommodations
The Wall Street Journal reports that retirees often default to pricey hotels and traditional accommodations rather than scouring for cost-effective alternatives such as house-swapping or pet-sitting services. Most dog lovers and lovers of homey experiences abroad use platforms like Trusted Housesitters.
Failing to Budget for Unexpected Expenses
Flight delays, sudden itinerary changes, and medical visits can all drain travel funds if they’re unplanned emergencies. Experts advise adding another 20 percent buffer to the travel budget to cover these unforeseen costs.
Traveling During Peak Seasons
Retirees with flexible calendars often choose to travel in high seasons by default, just as working professionals do. Travel experts advise looking into shoulder seasons (around on, off, beginning, or end of peak seasons), where flights, accommodations, and attractions are much cheaper and less crowded.
Airline Stopover Programs Not Utilized
Did you know many airlines offer free stopovers if you fly long-haul? According to Business Insider, travelers can use stopovers at Emirates, Icelandair, or Singapore Airlines during a layover that takes them to another destination and offers no additional flight cost.
Overlooking Senior Discounts
Student IDs only get you so far when it comes to discount perks! Seniors can take advantage of 10%-50% discounts for everything from airfare to national parks; there are benefits worldwide. Whatever tickets you’re booking, always try to ask for a discount.
Neglecting to Pre-Purchase Tickets
Spontaneous experiences are often a retiree’s thing, but they can be costly. Famous museums and attractions charge 10%—20% higher fees for walk-in tickets. You’ll save time and money by buying tickets online and have more time to enjoy your vacation destination.
Avoiding Public Transportation
Taxis and private rentals might sound convenient, but expensive and less efficient. Apps like Citymapper make it much easier for retirees to master public transportation systems such as subways and buses and have authentic travel experiences minus all the bloated costs.
Booking Tight Connections
Around 30 percent of travelers have rescheduled their travel plans at the last minute, dismayed that their intended layover was too tight.
Allow 2 and 3 hours between domestic flights and international connections to avoid unnecessary stress.
Overpacking
Carrying heavy bags makes people unable to move, and back and joint strain risks increase. Pack as lightly as you can with versatile, mix-and-match outfits, and buy lightweight wheeled luggage that’s made for durability and mobility.
Sticking Only to Touristy Areas
Tourist hubs can be fun, but they are pricier, overcrowded, and often lack authenticity. By exploring local neighborhoods and booking on apps like Airbnb Experiences, you’ll unearth your destination’s most genuine and affordable attractions.
Overcautiousness with the Locals
While safety should be a concern, it doesn’t mean you must fear speaking with the locals. Avoiding interactions out of fear of a scam misses the opportunity for meaningful cultural exchange. Converse, but be vigilant: stick to well-lit public spaces, and do not share your life story.
Neglecting to Learn Basic Phrases
While you don’t need to master a language, knowing basics like “Hello,” “Thank you,” or “Where is the restroom?” can drastically improve your travel experience. You can use Duolingo for lessons on the go, which should be easy.
Failure to Use Travel Apps
Retirees, game changers, are apps like Google Translate, TripIt, and XE Currency. From navigating language barriers to getting around, on-the-go applications make it much more straightforward. For seniors without any technology experience, a quick tutorial can help.
Carrying Unnecessary Paper Documents
No more bulky folders. From storing digital versions of itineraries, tickets, and IDs on cloud apps or your phone, the quicker you are on paperless travel, the better you will deal with a document safely.
The freedom to travel the world is part of retirement, but there is only one way to avoid the common pitfalls that may threaten your adventures—thoughtful planning. By taking on these crafty hassles before arrival, retirees can put more effort into absorbing the views, learning the cuisine, and plunging into the experience.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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