- Use a travel agent
It might seem like you’ll get a bargain if you book for yourself, but in most cases, the opposite is true – travel agents have access to all the advertised deals and will offer other perks too. You’ll get more time to decide and pay, and your trip plan will take into account things like transit times and convenient flight times. You’ll also have someone in your corner if something goes wrong – travel agents are always standing by to sort out snags for you.
- Take only what you need
Lugging around luggage – no fun! Optimise your packing to minimise your load: on your bed, lay out everything you might need. Decide on must-haves – smart but comfortable shoes, formal, easy-care outfits, mix-and-match tops and bottoms, toiletries and medication. Pack those, and put the rest away. You’ll hardly ever regret packing less.
- Nab the best seats
On a long flight pick an aisle or window seat. Choose morning flights for less turbulence, and seats over the wings for a smoother ride. If you don’t get air-sick, sit at the front of the plane where the air is cooler and fresher.
- Comfort in flight
There’s plenty you can do to make a long-haul flight easier:
- Exercise before you board, to reduce stress, boost immunity and help you sleep better.
- Drink water and avoid alcohol to reduce jetlag.
- Take an empty bottle through security so you can keep refilling it on the flight.
- Avoid fizzy drinks. Changes in altitude can painfully expand the gas in your digestive system.
- Wear layers, so you can adjust to the changes in temperature. A coat with plenty of pockets will also help you keep warm during flight, and give you places to store handy things like glasses and a pen.
- Bring something to read, download music on your phone, and bring favourite tea bags – flight attendants will happily supply the hot water.
- Use your carry-on as a foot rest and roll up a jersey for lumbar support.
- Recline your seat when you can – it’s better for your neck.
- Invest in a great neck pillow – they’re worth it!
- Take walks around the plane. This will reduce jetlag, and your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- Choosing accommodation
Choose accommodation that’s within easy reach of the things you want to do and see. Let your hosts know you’re 50+ for the best service – ground floor rooms, easy-access facilities, special tours and more. Again, a travel agent will sort all this out for you.
- Plan for stop overs
If you’re flying long-haul, plan to stay a few nights in a stopover. You’ll get to see a bonus city – Singapore, Hong Kong and Dubai are top picks – and make the flights far less arduous.
- Get travel insurance sorted
Organise travel insurance that starts from the moment you confirm your travel. This will cover accidents or illness, minimise delays while you’re away and mean you’re not out of pocket if you’re too unwell to fly. It’s totally worth it.
Above all, have fun!
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