Health preparations to organise before you travel

Taking time to organise travel health for seniors before departing for your trip can help prevent health complications and ensure you are taking steps towards a carefree trip. Simple steps like consulting your doctor, packing medication properly, and researching your destination will help you stay prepared for many situations.

Consult your doctor

Visiting your doctor is one of the most crucial steps in preparing for safe and healthy travel. It’s recommended to schedule an appointment with your doctor 4-6 weeks before departing for your trip, giving you time to address any health concerns and make the necessary preparations.

Arrange a comprehensive check-up

Ensure your overall health is assessed, particularly if you have any existing medical conditions.

A thorough examination can identify medical conditions that may require medication during your trip, allowing you to plan your medication schedule in advance.

Obtain a fit-to-fly certificate

If you have existing medical conditions or ongoing health concerns, ask your doctor for a fit-to-fly certificate. Airlines or travel insurance providers may require this document, and it offers peace of mind that you're ready for your trip.

If you’re concerned about your fitness to travel, consider delaying your travel plans. Travelling while unwell can increase the likelihood of complications, and you’ll find it harder to access quality care abroad compared to back home in Australia.

Discuss travel plans and activities

Share key details like your destinations, travel duration, and planned activities. Your doctor may provide guidance about vaccination, immunisation and potential health risks in your travel destination that could impact your medical conditions.

Seek advice on managing your health conditions and discuss how the climate, elevation, or local conditions could impact your health. Discuss suitable activities for your fitness level to help you prepare and stay healthy.

Medical documentation

When it comes to safe senior travel, having the right medical documents is a non-negotiable. Carry a brief summary of your medical conditions, allergies, prescriptions and medications, along with your doctor’s emergency contact details. Make sure to check if you need a permit or customs clearance for your medication in your travel destination. For extra safety, wear medical ID jewellery for quick alerts during a medical emergency. Keeping both electronic and hard copy versions of your medical documents ensures you’re prepared for many situations. These travel tips for seniors can make a big difference when navigating medical facilities overseas.

Medication management

Medication planning is crucial for over 50s travel. Take enough medication for your holiday, ensuring you have enough in case of travel delays. Always travel with medications in original packaging and pack a copy of your prescriptions. This avoids issues with customs and ensures replacements are easy if needed. To protect against lost luggage, split your medication between carry-on and checked bags. Proper preparation ensures you can stick to your regular schedule for taking medications, even across time zones.

Dental check up

Addressing dental issues before a trip is a key travel tip for seniors to avoid complications overseas. Even a minor cavity can escalate without access to trusted medical facilities. Keep in mind that it is unlikely that travel insurance will cover you for routine dental and cosmetic procedures overseas, so schedule a check-up with your dentist and complete necessary dental treatments ahead of time. Packing a dental kit with essentials, such as a toothbrush, floss, dental wax, and a denture cleaner ensures you stay on top of your dental health.

Vision and hearing check

Maintaining good vision and hearing is crucial for over 50s travel and can help increase your confidence in navigation, communication and independence during your trip. Book a check-up to update prescriptions and assess your hearing. Bring spare glasses, hearing aid batteries, and a cleaning kit for convenience.

Vaccinations and immunisations

Speak to your doctor about protecting your health with up-to-date vaccinations such as flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Depending on your destination and medical conditions, shots like Hepatitis A, typhoid or tetanus may be recommended for senior travellers. Keep your immunisation records with your travel documents.

Travel insurance for existing medical conditions

When planning your senior's trip, it’s important to consider travel insurance for existing medical conditions. Fast Cover’s travel insurance policies require you to complete a medical screening for existing medical conditions, online or by phone to determine if we can provide cover for your medical conditions. If you are eligible for a seniors travel insurance policy, keep in mind that you must notify Fast Cover of any changes to medical conditions after purchasing your policy and before the date of departure for your trip.

Fast Cover’s international travel insurance policies include cover for overseas 24/7 emergency medical assistance, overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses, overseas emergency dental and overseas emergency medical evacuation and repatriation to help cover you if you become unexpectedly injured or sick while travelling for reasons covered under the policy.^

Fast Cover offers travel insurance for travellers up to the age of 89, however, lower age limits may apply depending on the type of policy chosen and what cover is required.

Always check the eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs. Sharing policy details with a family member or emergency contact ensures they’re informed in case of emergencies.

Managing health conditions while travelling

Travelling with medical conditions doesn’t mean you have to miss out on adventure. While managing health conditions requires some extra planning, it’s crucial for senior travellers to reduce the risk of worsening medical conditions or contracting serious illnesses. Below are some tips on managing common health conditions affecting senior travellers. Make sure to speak to your doctor for advice on your particular circumstances.

Diabetes

• Monitor your blood sugar levels: Keep a glucometer with you and check your levels regularly to maintain control, especially when trying new foods or adjusting to different daily routines. Wearable continuous glucose monitors can connect to your smartphone to give you timely updates and alerts to help you manage your blood sugar levels on the go. Check with your doctor if you are eligible for Australian government subsidised Continuous Glucose Monitoring.

• Carry snacks and insulin: Always have quick-access snacks to stabilise your blood sugar if needed, along with enough insulin to last through your trip. Pack a thermal pouch to help keep insulin at the right temperature.

• Understand time zone changes: Adjust your insulin schedule to match your destination’s time zone. Talk to your doctor before you travel to create a customised plan that works for you.

Heart conditions

• Avoid strenuous activities: Choose low-impact activities like walking or sightseeing at a relaxed pace. Pushing your limits can strain your heart.

• Monitor your heart rate and blood pressure: Pack a portable blood pressure monitor to keep track of any changes, especially if you’re adjusting to higher altitudes or warmer climates.

• Carry necessary medications: Always keep your medicines on hand and store them in your carry-on for accessibility. Include a list of your prescriptions in case of emergencies.

Respiratory conditions

• Avoid allergens and irritants: Identify potential triggers in your destination, such as pollen, air pollution or smoky environments. Consider packing antihistamines for hay fever symptoms or wearing a mask if necessary.

• Carry inhalers and medications: Always have your prescribed inhaler or any other respiratory medication on hand. Bring extras, just in case, and keep them within easy reach at all times.

• Understand air quality conditions: Check the air quality index of your destination before you travel. If the conditions are poor, plan indoor activities or carry a portable air purifier.

Mobility issues

• Plan accessible routes and transportation: Research your destination to find wheelchair-accessible paths, suitable public transport options, or taxis equipped for mobility aids. Look for accessibility details on travel apps or official tourism websites.

• Request assistance at airports and travel hubs: Notify airlines or train operators in advance if you need help getting to your gate, boarding, or navigating terminals. Most travel hubs have dedicated services for mobility assistance such as wheelchairs.

• Ensure accommodations are accessible: Choose hotels or rentals with features like elevators, ramps, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. Don’t hesitate to call ahead to confirm these details.

Allergies

• Avoid street vendors if ingredients are unclear: If you're unsure about the ingredients in meals, it’s safer to skip them and opt for trusted dining options. Use translation apps to clarify the ingredients or translate food labels.

• Carry your medication: Always have your allergy medication or an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) on hand in case of an emergency such as anaphylaxis. Pack extras to ensure you’re prepared.

• Communicate dietary requirements: Inform restaurants and hotels of your allergies or dietary restrictions in advance. Prepare the translations in the local language beforehand.

• Use bug or insect repellent: Protect yourself from insect bites by using a good insect repellent and wear lightweight long sleeve clothing to minimise your risk outdoors.

Essential packing tips for senior travellers

Packing wisely is essential for senior travellers to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trip. By focusing on your specific needs and the type of trip you’re embarking on, you can stay prepared and at ease. Here’s a summary of must have packing items and tips for seniors:

Important documents

Ensure documents are valid and up to date

Double-check the expiry dates on your visa if you need one, passport, driver’s licence, and travel insurance before you go. Renew them well in advance of your departure date.

Make multiple copies

Print several copies or make electronic versions of key documents, such as your visa, passport, driver’s licence, travel insurance policy and medical documents. Store these copies separately from the originals to prevent loss or theft.

Save digital copies securely

Upload scanned documents to secure cloud storage or email them to yourself for easy access in case of emergencies. This way, you can retrieve them even if your physical copies go missing.

Weather-appropriate clothing

Layering is key for changing temperatures. Pack light sweaters or jackets for cooler weather, and make sure to include sun protection essentials like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for warmer climates.

Comfortable footwear

Pack supportive shoes designed for walking to avoid discomfort and reduce the risk of falls. A good pair of slip-resistant sneakers or walking shoes can help you stay comfortable during excursions. Consider investing in orthotic footwear if you will be doing a lot of walking during your trip.

First-aid kit and medication

Prepare a small kit with pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and motion sickness tablets. Pack all of your personal medications, ensuring you have enough for the trip. Keep your supplies easily accessible in case of emergencies.

Mobility aids

Whether it’s a cane, walker, or other assistive device, make sure it’s in good working order and travel friendly. If flying, inform the airline in advance about any mobility aids to arrange proper storage and handling.

Assistive technology

Assistive technology can help improve mobility and safety for senior travel and includes devices such as canes, walking frames, rollators, portable wheelchairs, hearing aids, sleep apnoea machines and other devices that support your daily routine. Assistive technology for senior travel can make your trip much more manageable and enjoyable.

Safety and security tips for senior travellers

Travelling can be an enriching experience for seniors, but it’s essential to stay alert and mindful of potential risks. Unfortunately, seniors are sometimes targeted by scammers and opportunists while travelling. By taking simple precautions, you can make your trip safer and more enjoyable. Below are some practical tips for personal safety, accommodation security, travelling with money and watching out for common scams for senior travellers.

Personal safety

• Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant in crowded areas or unfamiliar neighbourhoods and keep an eye out for anything that feels off.

• Secure your belongings: Keep your valuables hidden and use anti-theft bags or wallets with security features to protect essentials like your passport, money, and phone.

• Avoid walking alone at night: If you need to go out, try to stay in well-lit, busy areas or go with your travel companion.

• Pack light: Carrying less luggage not only reduces physical strain but also helps you stay more mobile and less vulnerable in crowds.

• Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation or seek help.

Accommodation security

• Use the hotel safe: Store valuables such as passports, extra cash, and jewellery in your hotel’s secure safe to reduce the risk of loss or theft.

• Keep doors and windows locked: Even if you’re staying in a safe area, make it a habit to lock all doors and windows when you leave the room or go to sleep.

• Be cautious of strangers: Avoid sharing details about your travel plans or accommodations with unfamiliar people. If someone seems overly curious, stay polite but keep your guard up.

Tips to choose the right accommodation for seniors

Selecting the right place to stay is crucial for senior travellers to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Consider the following tips when booking accommodations:

Accessibility is key

Look for properties with elevators, ramps, and accessible bathrooms, especially if you have mobility concerns. Verify these features by reading reviews or contacting the host directly.

Prioritise safety

Choose accommodations in well-lit and secure neighbourhoods. Check if the property offers safety features like 24/7 front desk service or closed-circuit cameras.

Focus on comfort

Opt for places with supportive bedding, temperature control, and other amenities that cater to your comfort, like quiet rooms or easy-to-navigate layouts.

Understand local services

Booking accommodation close to grocery stores, healthcare facilities, and public transport can make your stay more convenient and enjoyable.

Financial security and taking money overseas

• Be wary of scams: Stay alert for fake tour guides or overpriced souvenirs. Research trusted guides and vendors in advance, and if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

• Inform your bank of travel plans: Update your travel details to help detect any fraudulent activity quickly and organise travel cards from your bank.

• Limit cash: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash which can be easier to lose.

• Access to emergency funds: Store a backup credit card in your hotel safe or keep a small stash of emergency cash separated from your main wallet.

Watch out for scams

• Taxi scams: Some dishonest taxi drivers may overcharge by taking longer routes or tampering with meters. Use licenced taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps that display fares upfront.

• Pickpockets: Crowded areas are hotspots for thieves. Keep your belongings secure, use anti-theft bags, and stay alert in busy tourist spots.

• Fake tours: Scammers may pose as tour operators, offering cheap prices for tours that never happen. Book through reputable and licenced tour providers and read reviews beforehand.

• Fake hotels: Be wary of websites offering suspiciously low rates on unknown accommodations. Always cross-check their legitimacy on trusted sites.

• Fake police: Impersonators may demand on-the-spot fines for fake offenses. Insist on visiting a police station if questioned to verify their identity.

• Baby catchers: A person might throw a doll resembling a baby at you to distract you while they or their accomplice pick your pocket. Stay focused and keep your wallet secure.

• Street vendors: Some vendors sell counterfeit goods or use distraction tactics to steal from distracted buyers. Be cautious and avoid engaging with overly aggressive sellers.

Read our article on avoiding common travel scams to prepare for your upcoming trip.

Stay connected

• SIMs and eSIMS: Ensure you have a working mobile phone with international capabilities or consider purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM before you travel to avoid international roaming charges from your Australian service provider.

• Download useful apps: Download chat apps like WhatsApp, maps and translation apps to stay in touch with your family and travel companions, help you navigate and communicate with locals.

• Share your itinerary: Share your travel plans with a trusted family member or friend. A detailed itinerary, including your flights, accommodation, and planned activities, ensures that someone back home knows your whereabouts and can act quickly in case of an emergency.

Avoid risky activities

• Stay mindful of physical limits: Travelling can be a rewarding experience for those in their senior years, but it’s important to stay mindful of your fitness levels and physical limits. Take breaks when needed and pace yourself.

• Remain alert to hazards: Watch out for uneven pavements, steps and traffic, particularly in crowded areas.

Travel insurance for activities

Senior travellers looking to participate in certain activities can consider adding optional extras to their Fast Cover travel insurance policy for an additional premium. Check the PDS to see what is included under standard policy terms and conditions, and what activities might require additional cover.

Adventure Pack

If you’re aged 74 and under at the date of policy issue looking to do more adventurous activities like abseiling or zip lining, you can choose to add on the Adventure Pack to cover an extra list of adrenaline-pumping activities.^

Ski and snow sports

If you’re aged 69 and under at the date of policy issue you can apply for Fast Cover’s “Snow Sports Plus Policy”, which can provide senior travellers with cover for some of the costs associated with ski and snow sports.^

Riding a motorcycle, moped or scooter overseas

If you're aged 74 and under at the date of policy issue and want to ride or be a passenger on a scooter, moped or motorcycle on your overseas trip, you'll need to add the Motorcycle Pack to your seniors travel insurance policy.^

The Motorcycle Pack cannot be included on a Domestic Plus Policy.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Flight safety tips for seniors

Travelling by air can present unique health and safety concerns for senior travellers. Whether it’s the physical demands of long flights or managing jet lag, being prepared can make your flight experience smoother.

Air travel safety tips for seniors

• Stay hydrated: Airplane cabins are known for their low humidity, which can lead to dehydration during flights, considering their high altitude. Consume plenty of food and water and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol.

• Move around to prevent blood clots: Long periods of sitting can increase the risk of blood clots, especially for seniors. Take breaks to walk up and down the aisle or do simple leg exercises while seated to keep your circulation flowing.

• Request assistance if needed: Don’t hesitate to request help with boarding and deplaning. Airlines offer services such as wheelchair access and priority boarding to make your trip stress-free.

• Manage jet lag: Combat jet lag by gradually adjusting your schedule in the days leading up to your trip and staying well-hydrated. If possible, expose yourself to natural light upon arrival to help your body adapt to the new time zone.

• Use compression socks: These socks may be effective in improving circulation during long flights and can help reduce swelling or discomfort in your legs.

Airport security for senior travellers

Navigating airport security can be daunting for senior travellers with metallic aids or implants. If you have artificial hips and knee joints, a pacemaker or Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD), follow these tips:

• Inform security ahead of screening: Tell the airport security about your metallic aid or implant and they will provide alternative security methods like hand wands or private pat-downs.

• Carry medical documentation: Carry your pacemaker ID card or medical documents to explain your condition if required.

• Use body scanners: Passengers who can’t walk through the metal detector can safely undergo a body scan.

• Scanning assistive technology: Walking aids and medical devices such as canes, crutches, wheelchairs, walkers and sleep apnoea machines can be taken on board international and domestic flights after they’re screened.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

During long flights, seniors are at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Some tips on ways to help avoid getting DVT:

• Speak with your doctor: They may prescribe aspirin, elasticised stockings, compression socks or injections of heparin.

• Book an aisle seat: It’s easier to get up, move around and stretch your calf muscles.

• Stretch your feet and legs: Move your feet and legs regularly while sitting and go for regular walks on the plane. Avoid sitting with your legs crossed.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing and dress in layers: Wearing anything that could restrict circulation when sitting down, such as tight jeans, should be avoided.

• Stay hydrated: Avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can increase dehydration.

Older travellers and jet lag

Jet lag in older people is often accompanied by insomnia, mental fuzziness, indigestion, headaches, swelling of the hands and feet, or disorientation. Follow our top tips to reduce the effects of jet lag:

• Get plenty of sleep before you depart so you’re well rested when you begin your journey.

• Drink lots of water before and during your flight and decrease your intake of caffeine and fizzy drinks to stay hydrated.

• Eat lightly and avoid fatty and sugary foods.

• Change the time on your watch at the start of your trip to reflect the time at your destination to help you mentally adjust to the new time zone.

• Take a break when you arrive and plan to allow an extra day to adapt to the new time zone before starting a tour or further travel.

• Pack travel essentials like your medications in your carry-on to maintain your routine while adjusting.

Cruise safety tips for seniors

Cruises are a popular choice for over 50s travel. Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Prioritise hand hygiene to help prevent illnesses and pack motion sickness remedies, such as wristbands or medication.

• Familiarise yourself with ship safety procedures, attend safety drills, and avoid slippery surfaces by wearing shoes with a good grip.

• When it comes to meals, avoid buffets to reduce the risk of gastro-related illnesses. Pay attention to what you eat, as overindulging may affect underlying medical conditions such as hypertension or cholesterol.

• Alcohol consumption should also be moderated, as it can contribute to dehydration.

Read our cruise health and safety guide for more information on staying safe during cruise travel.

Rental vehicle safety tips for seniors

If you plan on renting a vehicle overseas, follow these essential travel tips for seniors:

• Check age restrictions from different rental companies: Not all are the same. If it’s not listed on their website, call them directly to find out.

• Apply for an International Driving Permit: Get an IDP before you leave and familiarise yourself with the driving rules and road quality.

• Inspect the vehicle before driving off: Take photos and document any damage with the rental company, no matter how minor it is.

• Ask what will happen if the car is in an accident or stolen: You want to be clear about what you’re liable for.

• Get copies of all paperwork: If you do have an accident or the vehicle is stolen, you’ll need proof to make an insurance claim.

• Consider buying travel insurance with rental vehicle excess cover: Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess benefit may provide cover for the rental vehicle excess component of your rental vehicle insurance with your car hire company, up to the specified limit in your travel insurance policy.^

What to do in emergency situations

Here’s our guide to dealing with emergency situations for senior travellers:

What to do in a medical emergency

No one likes to think about what could go wrong while on holiday, but unfortunately medical emergencies can arise unexpectedly. If you’re in hospital and need emergency medical assistance:

• Contact your travel insurer for help arranging medical treatment. Fast Cover’s 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team is available to help if something happens while you're travelling. They can connect you with medical services and assist in arranging appropriate care.

• Let hotel reception or your tour operator know you’ve been injured.

• Keep copies of police or doctor’s reports to make an insurance claim.

What to do in a non-medical emergency

If something happens to you that doesn’t require medical assistance, and you need help:

• Tell your tour guide what’s happened.

• Report it to the police and get a copy of the report.

• Report a lost or stolen passport to the Australian embassy.

• Contact your bank to cancel all your cards if your wallet or bag is stolen.

• If your hotel keys were taken let the hotel know immediately.

• If you have no access to cash, ask a family member to transfer you some money.

• Call your travel insurer to let them know what’s happened, and they may be able to advise you on what you need to do.

As each individual’s circumstances are different, Fast Cover will assess each claim on a case by case basis and in accordance with your specific circumstances, policy terms and Certificate of Insurance.

Important contact information and resources

Before travelling, compile a list of critical contact information, such as local emergency services, embassy contacts, and your travel insurance provider.

Visit Fast Cover's Travel Guides for important contact information in your travel destination. Save these details on your mobile phone and carry a printed copy. This ensures quick action during emergencies and offers peace of mind knowing you have this important information whilst travelling.

For more information on emergency assistance, visit Fast Cover's Emergency Contact page.^