Once you’ve decide where to go, how you’ll get there and where you’d like to stay, it’s time to work on the important details. Start a folder or notebook for your trip so that you can keep all of your trip information in one place. If you’re going to another country, apply for your passport and any necessary visas right away. You may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to drive abroad.
Make a list or spreadsheet of your projected travel expenses and decide how much money you will need for your trip. You’ll want to carry a combination of cash and travelers checks, credit cards or debit cards to pay for your trip. Contact your bank and credit card company before you leave and tell them where you’ll be using your ATM card or credit card; this will prevent the fraud detection department from “freezing” your card.
Reserve your hotel rooms and rental car. If you make reservations online, print copies of all of your confirmations. Consider using a credit card to guarantee late arrival at your hotel. Double-check all of your memberships and affiliations, such as AAA and AARP, to see if they offer discounts on rooms, rental cars or local attractions.
One important decision you’ll need to make when you book your trip is whether or not to purchase travel insurance. Some travel writers and consumer organizations feel that travel insurance isn’t worth the cost. Senior travelers, however, may be more likely to develop health issues that could require cancellation of their trip or emergency treatment while away. Purchasing travel insurance that provides trip cancellation and emergency medical transportation coverage, especially if you plan to travel outside of the U.S. and your health insurance is provided by Medicare. Medicare does not cover medical expenses outside of the U.S.
