Travel insurance can be a smart option for any trip, but it can be particularly helpful for international travel, which is often more expensive and involves a lot more planning than domestic travel. If you're planning several months out, your health condition and personal life could change significantly by the time the trip arrives. Even a last-minute trip overseas could be affected by an emergency.
Buying travel insurance protects your investment should an illness, emergency or other qualified event happen before you leave. Read the terms of the policy to ensure you know what you're getting. You might be able to get travel insurance through your credit card. Compare the options to find the best value.
If you have health or mobility issues, research your destination to make sure it's accessible for you. Some countries don't have the accessibility requirements found in the United States, which could make it more challenging to visit the places you want to see. Historical sites may not have wheelchair ramps or elevators, for instance.
Researching destinations to find options that are compatible with your mobility makes the trip more pleasant. You can also learn ahead of time which tourist sites will be ideal for you to visit and which you might need to skip. Knowing this before you travel helps you plan a fun itinerary without being disappointed once you arrive. It's also helpful to learn about public transportation options in your destination so you have a plan for getting around.
It's a good idea to check on medical facilities in your destination, especially if you have health conditions. Access to quality health care could be necessary if you have issues on your trip.
Accessibility also extends to your accommodations. Hotels may have limited selections of accessible rooms, so booking early gives you a better chance to get one. If you're renting a vacation home or apartment, read the listing carefully to make sure it meets your needs. Contact the owner if you're unsure how well the accommodations will work for you. If you plan to take public transportation, calculate how close those options are to where you're staying.
Even if you don't have any health issues, it's a good idea to visit your doctor before a planned international trip. Discuss your travel plans with your health care provider to make sure they feel you're healthy enough for the trip. This is also an ideal time to learn if there are recommended vaccinations for your destination.
Make sure you have enough of your prescription medications to last through the trip. Your doctor might be able to help you get enough if your supply won't last. Pack a copy of your prescription, and keep your medications in your carry-on bag to ensure they don't get lost with your checked luggage.
No matter how long your overseas adventure is, keep your luggage as light as possible to keep yourself safe. Heavy bags can strain your back. They could also cause you to trip or fall as you try to maneuver them.
Choose pieces you can use with multiple outfits. Sticking with one or two supportive pairs of shoes saves on weight in your luggage. If you stay in a hotel with laundry service, you can wear outfits multiple times.
Your international travel starts and ends at the airport. Begin the trip safely and relaxed by utilizing the available services. Contact your airline to find out about wheelchair assistance at the airport. Even if you can walk on your own, riding in a wheelchair or electric scooter can be beneficial if you have difficulty walking. International flights often depart out of large airports, which means you could have a long walk between your gates.
You'll need your passport for your travels abroad, so verify that it's current and doesn't expire soon. Some countries require you to have a passport that's valid for several months past your travel date. Checking on these requirements early prevents any disruptions to your trip. Make a copy of your passport to keep with you in case it gets lost or stolen while you're traveling.
As you get older, you might not have as much energy as you once did. Climbing stairs or visiting attractions all day can quickly become tiring. Plan an itinerary that hits your must-do spots without being overwhelming. Build in downtime throughout the trip. You can always add more activities once you're there if you want to explore more. Keeping the plans realistic helps you avoid wasting money on tickets you don't end up using. It can also make the trip more relaxing.
