Even those who are retired often prefer to travel during the summer months, when temperatures are warmer and outdoor activities abound. Of course, what time of year you travel depends on your destination as well. But if you’re planning a summer vacation, now’s the time to start planning. 

If you’re on the fence about traveling in general, here’s what Meadowood residents — and world travelers —Frank and Deanna Miller have to say: “In our forty trips to Europe we have traveled throughout … from the Arctic Circle to the Mediterranean coast to Istanbul. We have enjoyed meeting the locals on their turf and learning their customs and culture. We research and plan our itinerary to include not only major sites but also out-of-the way ‘hidden gems’ and we have learned so much geography and history. Travel is easier than ever because English is spoken everywhere. Travel in this manner helps us to better understand the world. Plus this has been a lot of fun.”

Travel-related senior discounts

Regardless of your financial situation, it’s nice to know that many travel-related companies offer senior travel discounts as well as veterans discounts. The money you save in one area could be put toward something else that you may consider more of a splurge.

Remember, you need to ask for these discounts; they are not automatic. So if you typically book transportation and accommodations online, it’s probably worth it to pick up the phone first and inquire about available discounts. After all, you’ve earned it! Here’s a sample of senior travel-related perks out there, which might lead you to new and exciting destinations:

• American Airlines offers a discount for travelers 65 and up on certain international routes.
• On Southwest Airlines, senior fares are refundable (Wanna Get Away fares are not).
• United Airlines offers senior discounts for select flights.
• Amtrak travelers 65 and older are eligible to receive a 10% discount on most rail fares.
• Avis and Budget car rental offer up to 30% off for AARP members.
• Hotel discounts include Best Western: 15% off (55+), Choice Hotels 10–30% off (60+), Hilton up to 7% off (65+); Marriot has special rates for seniors (62+)
• Royal Caribbean has senior pricing for travelers who are 55 or older on specific sailings.

As with any offer, beware of scams. If a deal appears too good to be true, it probably is. Your best bet is to rely on established, trusted companies.

For additional savings, when using a credit card to pay for something abroad, choose the “pay in local currency” option if offered. This will give you the best exchange rate.

Tours for groups (and solo travelers)

Road Scholar, formerly known as Elderhostel, is an expert in travel for adults over 50. The nonprofit offers thousands of learning adventures in more than 100 countries and throughout the United States. ElderTreks, based in Canada, is an active exotic adventure travel company, specializing in travelers 50 and older.

If you don’t have a travel companion, no worries. Many companies feature tours geared to singles, and some specifically for older singles. However, beware of the single supplement surcharge, which can be as much as 100 percent. Look for tour companies with no single supplement or a low single supplement.

For college graduates, many school alumni associations offer group trips. It’s not only a way to spend time with fellow alumni, you also may enjoy some cost savings as well.

Day trips

You don’t need to travel far to have a great time. Some of the best travel destinations are right in your back yard. Meadowood is ideally located, with plenty of area attractions appealing to a wide variety of interests. If shopping is your thing, there’s the King of Prussia Mall, the third largest mall in the country, behind only the American Dream and Mall of America. Like museums? You’re in luck! Montgomery County and nearby Philadelphia have lots of options. And you don’t have to trek to northern California for wine tastings; Pennsylvania boasts a number of wineries worth visiting.

Prefer the great outdoors? Well, you can start by exploring Meadowood’s lush 135 acres, including our very own nature preserve. And be sure to check out the area’s public parks.

Considerations for senior travel (or any age!)

Whether you’re traveling on your own, in a small group or on a larger tour, be sure to let others know of pertinent medical information: any allergies, medical conditions, dietary restrictions or physical limitations. Wherever you go, make personal safety a priority. Be aware of your surroundings at all times so that you won’t be a target for theft. Prepare for emergencies; make sure you have the proper medical and travel insurance coverage in foreign countries, and can be evacuated if needed from remote areas.

If you’re in for a long plane ride, such as overseas, consider wearing compression stockings to avoid deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or, at the very least, get up and walk around. And, whether you’re in the air or on the ground, be sure to hydrate.

Worried about adapting to a different time zone? Melatonin can help regulate your circadian rhythm, but check with your doctor to make sure there are no negative interactions with any medications you’re taking.

Here are a few questions to ask before you book trips or arranged tours:

• What are the average high and low temperatures where we’ll be traveling?
• Should I be concerned about high altitudes?
• Are vaccinations needed?
• Is the tap water safe to drink? (If not, avoid ice, too.)
• Is it safe to eat raw fruits and vegetables?
• Are there a lot of steps to navigate? (and other accessibility concerns)
• Will we be walking on unusually slippery or uneven surfaces?
• How much walking is done on an average day?
• Will there be any physically demanding activities?
• Are audio assistive devices available on the bus or in museums?
• Do the tour buses have bathrooms?
• Is there a fee to use public bathrooms?

Learn to embrace, not fear, technology. If you’re traveling to another country, find out if your mobile carrier provides international coverage. If not, purchase a plan or rent a cell phone for your trip. Google maps on your mobile phone, for instance, can be a lifesaver. You also can use Google translate or other apps to make communication easier if you don’t speak the native language.

American citizens may want to sign up for travel alerts from the State Department. It’s also good to have contact information for the U.S. consulate in destinations where you will be traveling. If you don’t already have TSA Precheck, consider getting it and avoid lengthy lines at airport security. U.S. citizens also can apply for Global Entry, which gives you priority Customs clearance upon entering the U.S. Cost for TSA Precheck is $78, cost for Global Entry is $100 ,and both last for five years.

Packing tips

If you are on any medications, keep them in their original containers with labels. It may seem obvious, but be sure to take your medications — and your passport and other documents — with you in your carry-on luggage. That way, if your checked luggage gets lost, you’ll still have your medications on hand.

Packing light is easier said than done, but you’ll be glad you did. That way, you’ll have a lighter load to carry around during your travels. If you don’t already roll your clothes when packing, check out this tutorial video. You’ll save space in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts for the grandkids! Plus, you’ll avoid the wrinkled look from clothes getting jostled about.

Make a checklist of what to bring and include sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. If you’re going to a tropical destination, don’t forget to pack the insect repellant. Even if you don’t have any known allergies, pack BENADRYL® or a similar anti-itch medicine that can double as an allergy remedy. Be prepared for both constipation and diarrhea, as different cuisines may play havoc with your digestive system.

Lastly, secure your home before leaving for an extended period of time. Pause newspaper and mail delivery (or have a trusted friend or family member pick it up for you), and set your thermostat higher (summer) or lower (winter) than usual. You may also want to arrange for someone to care for your plants in your absence. 

Most important, get ready to have fun. Safe travels, and bon voyage!