Quick Summary: Explore our practical guide for seniors who love to travel, covering everything from choosing senior-friendly accommodations to managing medications and staying safe on the go. Readers will feel empowered to book that trip they’ve been putting off and reassured that travel is absolutely achievable with the right planning and preparation.

Are you looking to travel more in retirement? Have you put off booking your trip because you don’t know where to start? Older adults make up nearly one third of the traveler population, and it’s time to join in on the adventure!

According to a 2026 AARP Travel Trends study, older travelers are planners, with 83% of senior participants who plan to travel internationally already having their destinations chosen. If you’re new to planning, here is some key senior traveler advice to help you map out your travel plans from start to finish.

Before Your Trip: Health and Preparation

Traveling safely as a senior begins with preparation and planning before your trip takes flight. Be sure to check the following tasks off your list to start your travel plans on the right foot.

Visit Your Doctor

Before you travel, consider speaking with your healthcare provider well in advance to make sure you’re prepared for your trip. You may want to discuss:

Where and when you plan to travel, along with any activities you hope to enjoy
The latest public health travel guidelines
Recommended or updated vaccines and any prescription refills you may need
Ways to manage common travel-related concerns, such as motion sickness
Obtaining a medical letter that outlines your health conditions, medications, and emergency contact information, if appropriate

Plan For Peace Of Mind

A little preparation before your trip can help you feel more comfortable and confident while you’re away. Consider making arrangements for:

Home Security: Ask someone you trust to check on your home, plants, and pets while you’re away. You may also want to place your mail on hold, use timers for lights and other home systems, and reschedule routine maintenance visits.
Financial Security: Let your bank or credit card company know about your travel plans so purchases made in unfamiliar locations aren’t unnecessarily flagged as suspicious.
Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance that may help with unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, or lost or stolen luggage. Review the policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered, including any pre-existing conditions.
International Travel: If you’re traveling outside the United States, consider enrolling in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important updates and make it easier for the U.S. government to assist you in an emergency.

Research and Book

If you’re interested in some often overlooked travel hacks, older adults should consider doing this extra research when booking a trip:

Prioritize accommodations offering ground-floor rooms or reliable elevators, walk-in or roll-in showers with grab bars, wide entryways, and a safe, central location close to public transit or main attractions to minimize physical fatigue and lengthy walks
Note the medical facilities and pharmacies available near your destination
For accessible travel, seniors should opt to rent mobility aids
Choose senior-friendly tours with relaxed itineraries and activities
Call the activities and attractions you intend to visit to ask if there are ramps, elevators, and spacious restrooms available
Review TSA protocols and know the airport rules for the countries you’re traveling through
Research time zone changes so you can navigate appropriate medication management and eating and sleeping routines

Pack Appropriately

Get organized with a thoughtful packing list that helps you feel comfortable and prepared throughout your trip:

Versatile clothes that can easily mix and match for style and weather changes
Pack two or more pairs of comfortable, non-slip shoes you can switch out during your trip
Transfer toiletries into smaller containers or buy travel-size toiletries
Pack extra essentials in the event of lost luggage, delays, or accidents
If going on a flight, pack your medicine in a carry-on bag to avoid losing it

During Your Trip: Comfort and Safety

The bulk of your planning has taken place before your trip, but there are still ways to stay prepared for any situation during your travels:

Local Research: Read up on your destination to stay aware of senior discounts and tourist scams.
Stay in Touch: Update loved ones back home so they know you’re safe and are aware of your plans. Avoid posting live vacation updates on social media while away for home security reasons.
Watch What You Carry: Keep limited cash and your valuables on you, including your phone, charger, international portable power bank, and important documents like your passport, driver’s license, travel insurance, and medical letter from your doctor.

The Benefits of Traveling for Seniors

Traveling can offer older adults opportunities to stay active, discover new experiences, and make meaningful memories. When planned with safety and individual needs in mind, travel may support overall well-being in several ways:

Physical Health: Sightseeing, walking, and participating in activities can encourage movement and help older adults stay active while exploring new places.
Cognitive and Mental Well-Being: Travel introduces new environments, experiences, and cultural activities that can provide mental stimulation and encourage curiosity. A 2025 Global Coalition on Aging–Transamerica Institute roundtable report highlights travel’s potential role in supporting healthy aging through experiences such as museum visits, live performances, and exploring historical landmarks.
Social and Emotional Well-Being: Traveling with family, friends, or organized groups creates opportunities to strengthen relationships, meet new people, and share meaningful experiences that can bring a sense of connection and joy.

So Much to Experience With Clarendale at Indian Lake

Clarendale at Indian Lake offers unparalleled resort-style living in an environment that feels just like home. With our exceptional amenities, well-equipped fitness studio, excellent dining options, vibrant social activities, and premier services, it’s the ideal choice for active, engaged living.

Located just thirty minutes from Nashville, Clarendale at Indian Lake is close to everything active seniors look for today—from local lakeside outings, scenic parks, shopping villages, and cultural trips to Music City.

Ready for your next adventure? Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover a vibrant wellness lifestyle that helps you stay active, engaged, and connected, giving you the freedom to explore new places, pursue new experiences, and enjoy every stop along the journey.