I know so many seniors that wonder about traveling alone around the world but that are too afraid to do it. So every now and then this keeps me thinking on what are the reasons for them to be so anxious and nervous about travelling. Because, now that they finally have financial independency, flexible time, all kids grown up and most of them, with no companions anymore, it seems a perfect set for travelling as much as possible. Yet, they don’t see it this way.
Why are seniors afraid of traveling alone? Many questions arise from the thought of traveling alone as a senior, questions such as if the place is safe, if it’s ok to be walking around all alone, what to do if you get sick or get injured. Doesn’t matter how old you are, traveling alone may require more planning than it used to, it is feasible.
I get that. I really do. But what about thinking how sad it is to live fearing of the unknown. Making a big life change is almost always scary, but it’s also exciting because of the new beginnings that await you. And traveling, particularly alone as a senior, is one of the most incredible gifts you can give yourself late in life. Besides, you’ve worked enough your entire life already, now you deserve to take it easy and enjoy a bit.
By the way, do you know that the idea of traveling alone has become increasingly popular? According to the 2015 Visa Travel Intentions Study, about 24% of people had traveled alone in 2014 up from 15% the previous year. In addition, when it comes to seniors traveling alone, according to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), over 80% of people aged 45 and older, who have taken a trip alone plan to make another one soon.
So what are you waiting for?
Questions You May Have About Traveling Alone as a Senior
1. Is traveling alone even safe for a senior?
Yes, absolutely. Safety should always be at the top of your mind, but the best way to combat this fear is to be prepared and aware. But you have survived in this planet this long because you have figured out how to keep yourself safe. So keep doing the same when you travel.
Traveling is just like being at home: you have to understand your surroundings and act accordingly. Furthermore, adapt to the new place as much as possible by doing research on what to bring, what to wear, and what is acceptable behavior.
And be sure to have a travel insurance, all the numbers you should have, medicines you may need. It’s also important to check with your doctors back home before a trip. Thus, even if you are healthy and strong, as a senior, you should always be a little more prepared.
2. What if I get sick or get injured or need a doctor?
That’s precisely why you have to have a travel insurance and all the right numbers to call if needed. Also, it’s important to be aware of what is covered in the insurance.
3. What if I feel lonely?
It’s true that when traveling alone one can feel lonely sometimes. But it’s also a great opportunity to meet new people on the road.
Many of people travel alone these days, and because they are also alone, they are typically very easy to meet and are open to interactions with new people. Thus, when traveling alone, people are more opened to others and tend to be more friendly, which makes it much easier to connect.
4. What if I am kind of the shy type that doesn’t connect easily with new people?
Most people have some element of shyness to overcome. Therefore, even if you think you’re shy and awkward, you’ll learn to lose it over time because travelers are more opened and friendly. And often, you won’t even have to be the one to start the conversation.
5. What if I get bored?
I get it, you are worried that, because you are traveling alone – and still not convinced that you will meet new friends on the road – you think you will be bored seeing all these new places with no one to share.
So you can always take photos during the trip and share with friends on Instagram or Facebook, or even on whatsapp. That way, despite of battling boredom, it may also help you feeling more connected with old friends back home.
Similarly, you can keep a diary or a notebook with all the amazing things you’ve been discovering. Besides, the good thing about it is that you can write it everywhere, find comfortable paces with amazing landscape scenario, pick up your pen and paper and write whatever you feel like to.
6. But isn’t it preferable not to travel alone, if possible?
No way! Traveling alone is something absolutely everyone should do in life. Also, traveling solo allows you to be who you really are. Besides, for the first time after all these years you will have complete freedom and can do anything and everything you feel like doing.
7. What if I’m not brave enough for all of that?
Even if you think you are not brave enough to pack your suitcase and go, you can still travel alone. So ease into it with a tour in a bus or a cruise or start off with a group of friends.
People are adaptable, we really are. You can do it. At least trust your abilities enough to try.
8. What if I get homesick?
Homesickness is unavoidable, and you will have down days on the road just like you did at home. Thus, have regular Skype calls with your friends and family and take photos with you to help ease the homesickness.
However, don’t forget why you went traveling in the first place. You wanted to see new places, try new things, and meet new people. So it was meant to be different and far away.
In addition, being homesick is just a temporary bump in the road. You’ll go back home eventually, and everything will still be there more or less as it was. Besides, sometimes traveling helps us appreciate home all that much more.
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Tips related to health for Seniors Traveling Alone
In order to stay healthy while traveling, seniors need to be diligent about taking care of themselves before, during and after their trips. Here are some tips for keeping your travels healthy and fun:
1. Check with your doctor before you go anywhere
It’s always good to let your doctor know what activities you’ll be participating in and who you plan to go with. Furthermore, if you’re traveling abroad, your doctor may also advise you to get certain immunizations before you leave.
2. Look into your prescription situation
If you’re traveling for more than a week or so, be sure you have your necessary prescriptions in order to obtain more medication during the trip if you need.
3. Tell your family and friends your itinerary
Let family and friends know about where you’ll be staying and what you plan to do. Plus, an itinerary will be very helpful for your loved ones in the event of an emergency.
4. Get travel insurance
Don’t travel without a travel Insurance. If something goes wrong and you require medical treatment while abroad you’ll be thankful you’re covered.
5. Don’t push yourself too hard
If you feel exhausted and like you’ve had enough physical stimulation for one day, go with your gut. So just take a break.
Basic Tips at the Airport for Seniors Traveling Alone
These tips are no secret but in case you have forgotten about them, I just want to remind you a few things that can save you a lot of time and energy.
1. Wheel chair
If you cannot walk long distances, most airport nowadays will have wheel chair available. So be sure to let the airline you are using know about it, you can either call the airline before your trip or ask for it while doing your check-in. But don’t be afraid to ask, they will be happy to provide you with the service.
2. Carry on
Remember that nowadays it became trickier bringing too many items in your carry on, specially if it is liquid or even food. Thus, be sure to take a look of what is permitted before packing your carry on bag.
3. Customs/Immigration declaration
If you are traveling abroad, remember that you will have to fill in a form to get into the country you are traveling to. Remember to bring a pen in your bag and to have some important information on hands (the address of the hotel where you will be staying and the phone number as well). Most likely, you will have to provide this info, even if you are staying with a relative or a friend (so be sure to have their address and phone number).
