If you need emergency medical assistance while traveling, it’s important that first responders know about any medical conditions you have or medications you take. A smart medical ID card from the Medic Alert Foundation can give you the peace of mind that health care professionals can easily gain access to your health history.
The card features a QR code that can be scanned in seconds to access a health profile you create. In the profile, you can provide detailed information about past medical procedures, chronic health conditions and treatments you’re currently using. You can also list any allergies and provide contact information for relatives and your health care provider.
From rushing through airports to catch connecting flights, exploring botanical gardens and enjoying the thrills of amusement parks, many activities while you're traveling involve a lot of walking. Even for active seniors, all those steps can lead to fatigue and an increased potential for falls. The good news is that airports and many tourist attractions offer scooters that allow you to easily cruise rather than walk. In some cases, you may need to make arrangements for mobility scooter rental ahead of time, so call to double-check.
Vacations give you a break from your daily routine, but you should still be prepared to practice bathroom safety while you’re away. If you currently use nonslip mats, grab bars or other safety aids at home, look for accommodations that offer the same amenities. Many hotels have accessible rooms designed specifically for people with mobility issues. If you’re booking a vacation rental, ask the host about accessibility before you send a deposit.
Vacations are a time for adventure, but taking the roads most people travel is a smart idea. Sticking to places where there are plenty of people can help you stay safe while you’re traveling. Also, try to book accommodations in a busy, well-lit area so you can come and go with less worry, especially at night.
If you’ll be traveling to another country, take a few minutes to visit the U.S. State Department’s page devoted to your destination. The government website provides detailed information about required travel documents and necessary vaccinations for countries around the world. In addition, you’ll find travel advisories that identify areas that may be unsafe to visit due to civil unrest, crime or public health emergencies.
The website also makes it easy to find the contact information for the local U.S. embassy or consulate. Keep the phone number stored in your phone and on a piece of paper for quick access in case of emergency.
Posting photographs and updates about your travels on social media allows you to share the excitement of your trip with your friends and family, but it’s a good idea to wait until you’re home to post. Saying that you’re away on a public social media account could leave your home vulnerable to thieves and possibly make you a target in your travel destination. Uploading your photos after your trip will also give you an opportunity to relive all the fun you had and reflect on your experiences.
Even in safe places, keep important items like your travel documents, credit cards and ID secure. Make use of safes in hotels for things you don’t need to bring with you while you’re out exploring, and tuck your wallet and phone away in inner jacket pockets when possible.
If you want to carry a bag, invest in an anti-theft crossbody bag, messenger bag or backpack. These accessories feature locking mechanisms that discourage thieves and usually have extra-strong straps that are difficult to cut or snap. Many online retailers carry anti-theft bags for easy shopping.
Before you hit the road, photocopy the fronts and backs of your photo ID, credit cards, debit card and passport. Store one set of copies in a secure location with you, such as in the hotel safe, and leave another set with someone trustworthy back home. That way, you’ll be able to access the information if your wallet is lost or stolen. When traveling abroad, you may also want to give your trusted at-home contact a copy of your Social Security card and birth certificate in case you need to request a passport replacement.
Knowing you’re covered for the cost of medical care can give you peace of mind while traveling. Whether you’re traveling in the United States or abroad, contact your insurer to find out if your coverage extends to your destination. If not, check out the U.S. Department of State’s insurance resource page to explore travel insurance options.
