Remember the good ol’ days when you were able to pull an all-nighter to catch an early morning flight, hop off the plane and start your vacation with no sleep?
While some folks can still rock out the days of their youth – many of us are getting up there in age – and our bodies (and brains) simply can’t do it anymore.
So, is there ever a point when you’re truly too old to travel or fly and see the world?
No!
Never.
It’s true what they say – “Age is only a number.”
I know 20-year-old’s who are so out of shape they can’t even make it up a flight of stairs without gasping for air.
At the same time – there are 70-year-old’s who still manage to run 2 miles every morning.
But what about the rest of us who fall somewhere in between?
The key to traveling well at any age is to know your body – and to prepare.
Stretch. And Then Stretch Some More
If you’re flying – try and get up once or twice during your flight to stretch your legs. Whether it’s a trip to the bathroom – or even just a quick stretch of your arms and legs in the aisle – you’ll feel much better.
And if you’re driving – make sure to take plenty of breaks at rest stops!
Being cramped up in a car and trying to beat the clock isn’t worth it.
Give your body the chance to stretch and move around.
Sleep
While pulling an all-nighter used to be a badge of honor – most of us aren’t in college anymore!
We all know how important sleep is to help our body and mind function properly.
When you’re tired – not only does everything seem harder – but you have no energy. And pounding down cups of caffeine just doesn’t do it anymore.
Try and get a good night’s sleep before your trip – and if you’re flying, do what you can to sleep on the plane – even if it’s just a 30-minute nap.
Eat Well
Don’t count on a Coca-Cola and bag of Doritos to sustain you for the day!
Make sure you fuel your body with healthy food – grass-fed meats, veggies, fruits, brown rice, and whatever special foods your destination is known for!
Pack some protein snacks and healthy treats for your flight like almonds, bananas, beef jerky, cheese sticks – and don’t forget to bring an empty bottle so you can fill up on water at the airport.
When you’re hydrated and have the proper nutrients in your body – you’ll have so much more energy to get out there and explore the sights!
Carry Important Items With You
Hopefully you aren’t checking a bag – but if you are, make sure you have all your important medications, vitamins, and other medical equipment with you.
These days, there’s no guarantee you’ll actually get your checked bag on time after exiting the plane – so you’ll want to make sure you have your important meds with you should there be flight delays.
It might be good to pack a blanket or a shawl, an extra change of clothes, and a phone charger in your carry-on too. Better to have it and not need it then the other way around!
Know Your Body
If you have a chronic health condition – traveling may be a bit more challenging – but it’s still completely doable!
Travelers with asthma should know what their triggers are and make sure they have a backup inhaler.
Diabetics should have insulin and other medication easily accessible.
Some seniors have shared their travel trips for managing health conditions while traveling.
AirTreks reported:
“We decided to make travel our priority and work around health issues. Finding doctors when we’ve needed them during our travels has never been an issue and we’ve been pleased with the high level of care we’ve received when we’ve needed it.
Our experience in many different countries has shown us that paying out of pocket is the most practical way to go. Dental care, for example, is usually cheaper than in the U.S.” – Anita Oliver and Richard Nash of No Particular Place To Go
Other travelers opt for medical evacuation insurance or travel insurance.
But whatever you decide – rest assured – you are never too old to travel!
So get out there and see the world – whether this is your 100th trip or your very first – traveling is an incredible way to experience the beauty and culture of our world – so have fun and take a lot of pictures!
Do you think a person can ever be “too old” to travel?
What travel advice do you have for older travelers?
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