Science says traveling relieves stress, makes one healthy, and improves overall well-being. Taking vacations is linked with a decreased risk of chronic conditions like Type-2 diabetes, stroke, and heart attack and reduced stress levels.
Traveling is good for people of all ages, but it is more so for seniors. It helps seniors stay active and engaged and keep their brains healthy.
However, taking train or flight trips is considered risky for older adults. Airplane travel can lead to jet lag, oxygen deprivation, and increased blood pressure. The poor quality of washrooms and the risk of theft make train travel unsafe for the elderly. The safest travel option for them is to take road trips.
Sixty-one percent of travelers looked forward to domestic-only travel last year. These individuals anticipated to make about 50% of their domestic travels by car. A 2023 survey of AARP revealed this.
The top destinations for domestic travel are New York City, Las Vegas, and Miami. The tourism group revealed that visitors to Chicago increased to 60% in 2022. Approximately 48.9 million domestic and overseas visitors hit the town that year. The same year, Los Angeles welcomed 46.2 million visitors. A total of 41.9 million visitors were domestic, whereas 4.3 million were international.
Traveling by road allows seniors to explore destinations at their own pace while taking in the scenery. But to make your road trip enjoyable, you must prepare well. That said, here are some invaluable tips that will ensure a hassle-free road trip.
#1 Chalk Out Your Route
Before you hit the road, plan the route well in advance. Chalking out the route to your destination will contribute to a smooth and stress-free trip. Always choose well-maintained roads and highways when setting out on a road trip. Accessing amenities on highways and roads in good conditions is easier than those in dilapidated conditions.
Your itinerary must also contain plenty of stops. Plan rest stops at roadside parks, scenic viewpoints, or restaurants. You can stretch your legs, rest, relax, use restroom facilities, and refill water bottles. Taking frequent breaks will prevent exhaustion, making your trip enjoyable.
Using Google Maps will help you plan your route better. It will let you know the exact time it will take for you to reach your destination. Plus, you can check restaurants or hotels in your route and plan your stops accordingly.
#2 Leave the Car at Home
Hitting the road in a rental car instead of your own sounds outlandish, but it will give you peace of mind.
Driving in old age helps people stay independent, but the risk of driving-related fatalities increases. Crash fatality rates are high among older adult drivers. Frailty due to cognitive and physical changes associated with aging makes them unfit for driving.
Leaving the car at home is especially important if your vehicle is more than 10 to 15 years old. Older vehicles are at an increased risk of breaking down due to wear and tear of components.
Renting a vehicle will be your best bet when setting out on a road trip. Irrespective of whether you’re traveling as a couple or a group of seniors, there are plenty of options available.
As of 2023, there were approximately 16,000 car rental outlets in the United States. California (CA) has the highest number of car rental businesses. There were about 1,814 car rental businesses in the state. A close second was Florida, with 1,439 businesses. Texas rounded out the top three with 1,283 businesses.
The car rental industry is also heavily concentrated in Illinois (IL). The state had 535 businesses last year.
Regardless of whether you live in Los Angeles, CA, Miami, Florida, or Chicago, IL, there is no dearth of options for car rental businesses.
Executive sedans will be an excellent option for couples or small families, as they easily accommodate three to four people.
But you should go for Sprinter vans if you are setting out on road trips with a group of older people. Sprinter vans are the perfect choice for large groups because they are spacious enough to accommodate people as well as luggage. While the cost of renting a luxury Sprinter van depends on several factors, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $400 to rent it, explains Eminent Limo.
A quick Google search for the best “Sprinter van rentals in Chicago” or “Sprinter van rentals in California” will bring forth tons of options. If you live in any other state in the US, search for Sprinter van rentals in that state. Compare the rates and features and book the one that best fits your needs and budget. Car rental companies also have experienced drivers. Be sure to hire them along with your vehicle.
#3 Pack All Essentials
Whether you’re setting out on a two-day or a week-long trip, you must pack all essential items.
Start with medications. Stock up on all your prescription medicines so that you can have them on time. Do not take the risk of purchasing them once you reach your destination. You never know if they will be available at your chosen destination.
A first-aid box is another must-have item in your luggage. Buying a first-aid kit from a local pharmacy will be the best thing to do. However, you can make your own kit, too. Band-aids and bandages, antiseptic wipes or solutions, gauze pads, ice packs, and hand sanitizer are items you must add to your travel first-aid kit.
Other than that, make sure to pack fruits, beverages, and healthy snacks to maintain your energy levels throughout the trip.
Wrapping things up, road trips in the golden years of life can be an enriching experience. You get the freedom to explore destinations at your own pace and create lasting memories. However, proper planning and preparation are the keys to a smooth, hassle-free road trip.
When setting out on a road trip, follow these tips for a hassle-free trip full of adventure. However, before you start your journey, get your vitals checked to ensure you’re fit for the road ahead.