Traveling in your sixties!

My husband and I just returned from our “try to make it until spring” trip.  I wanted to give you some tips I’ve finally mastered as far as traveling in these new times.   When I was young, I would throw a few things in a bag, and buy what you forgot when you got there!  I would always over pack and end up lugging around things that I never used.  Not any more.  Not only do most airlines charge to check a bag, yes you read that right, even one bag, packing efficiently is more important than ever.  In addition they weigh your bag now and will charge you a fee if it is overweight.  Plan out your outfits for your trip.  Keep in mind that if you are going to a warm destination you will probably spend most of your time in a bathing suit and cover-up.  I always think I’m going to change for every meal from my suit to a cute sun dress…guess what?  It very rarely happens.  So instead invest in some cute cover-ups!  They look great at resorts. I also used to bring my good jewelry.  No more!  I found that the inexpensive things that you can find at Kohl’s or even the dollar stores work great.  They can be trendy and colorful and look great on vacation.  Ditch the flip-flops.  No one under 25 can rock a pair.  They offer no support and are not easy or safe to walk around in un-chartered territory.  Instead invest in a couple of pairs of sturdy, low-heeled sandals.  They can go from pool to restaurant and make your legs and you look better.  I wear sneakers to the airport and they double as my work out shoes.  It’s important to do something for a workout, even on vacation.  In fact, especially on vacation!  Chances are you are going to eat and drink more.  The last thing you want is to come home from vacation and find that you’ve gained weight.  I’m not suggesting you spend your vaca in the resort gym.  What I like to do is walk around the area in the morning for my work-out.  It’s a great way to see the sights and help you decide what you’d like to explore during the day.  Let’s talk about your carry-on.  Now that some of us have medication that we take daily don’t forget to put those in your carry-on.  Nothing is more aggravating then having to figure out how to get your prescriptions forwarded to another place, especially if you are traveling out of the country.  Another great tip…invest in some over the counter medicines for UTI’s.  Why?  Because if you are a hot tub lover like me, coupled with wet bathing suits and maybe some added frisky vacation behavior the possibilities of getting a UTI increase.  The last thing you want to do is spend your valuable vacation time sitting in a walk-in to get meds!  Another great tip is to put all your travel information in a folder that you keep in your carry-on.  Include an envelope for receipts.  It keeps everything in one place and easy to access if necessary.  I also hav e a copy of my passport in my checked luggage.  I have traveled with someone who’s pocketbook was stolen when we arrived at the airport and she spend the first day of vacation getting a new passport.  Having a copy makes the process easier and faster!  Last but not least, if at all possible, shut off your phone.  During our last trip we didn’t have phone service.  I didn’t realize with my new carrier that I needed to request it ahead of time.  You know what?  It was actually great not having to worry about it!  Most of all, have fun and be thankful that you have your health and the ability to travel!