Retirement is the perfect time to explore new destinations, and the adventure starts long before you board the plane. By preparing well, you can make the most of your overseas travels.

Wendy and John, residents of a Ryman Village love the freedom of locking up their apartment and heading off to discover the world. Here are their top tips for smooth travelling:

Create a thoughtful itinerary

Planning your travel itinerary is a great way to ensure you get the most out of your trip. Start by pinpointing the key destinations and activities that interest you. Then, balance your days by including a variety of experiences without overloading your schedule. Make sure to factor in travel times between locations and leave room for breaks to avoid overly long or tiring days. 

Look for destinations that are easily accessible with good transport options and comfortable accommodations. Consider downloading helpful apps for maps, translations, and emergency services in advance, so you can access them even without an internet connection. 

Finally, build in some flexibility. Unexpected changes like bad weather or closures do happen, so having a plan B can make all the difference. Sometimes the best memories come from unplanned experiences. 

Confirm what your travel insurance covers 

Travel insurance is important for international trips but be sure to choose the right policy. Read the fine print to ensure you’re covered for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and possible evacuations. 

Make sure your policy covers any pre-existing health conditions. Be upfront with the insurer about your medical history, as some policies cover conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, while others may offer limited or no coverage. 

Keep in mind that some travel insurers require you to pay in advance for initial medical expenses like GP visits before you can claim reimbursement. 

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Check and copy important documents 

Ensure your passport is up to date and that you have plenty of time to renew it if necessary. It’s also wise to keep photocopies or digital copies of your passport, travel insurance, and any bookings or reservations. Losing these vital documents while overseas can be a headache, but having copies will make replacing them far easier. Store copies separately from the originals for extra peace of mind. 

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Consult your doctor 

Before heading overseas, it’s wise to have a health check-up with your doctor. This allows you to discuss any pre-existing conditions that may need to be managed while you’re travelling and ensure that your vaccinations are up to date. If you're on prescription medications, ask for enough to cover the duration of your trip and get a doctor’s note for customs. Also, check with your doctor about any health risks at your destination, as you may need additional vaccinations. 

Let your bank know you’re going overseas 

To avoid any issues with your cards while abroad, inform your bank about your travel plans. If you use your card in a location far from home without notifying them, your bank may flag the activity as suspicious and freeze your account or decline transactions. Some cards also require activation for international use or may have restrictions, depending on the country you're visiting. 

Notifying your bank ahead of time will ensure your card works seamlessly throughout your travels. 

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Activate international roaming 

Before you jet off, check with your mobile provider about international roaming. When activated, your phone will automatically connect to a local network in the country you're visiting. While roaming, you can make calls, send texts, and use mobile data just like you would at home. 

However, keep in mind that roaming charges, especially for data, can be significantly higher than domestic rates. Be sure to check with your provider for roaming rates in your destination country, as these can vary. 

Pack light and smart 

When it comes to packing, try to travel as light as possible. No one wants to drag heavy luggage through airports, into trains, or down cobbled streets. Start with a list of essentials, then trim it down as needed. It’s also handy to keep the list on your phone in case your luggage goes missing and you need to describe its contents. 

Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched for various activities and weather conditions. Comfortable shoes are a must – walking tours and sightseeing can rack up the steps, so be prepared! Don’t forget a windproof raincoat or jacket, a small first-aid kit, and spare glasses or contacts. If you forget something, most places have shops where you can pick up what you need. 

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Plan for a comfortable flight 

When booking your flight, you might prefer an aisle seat for easy access to the bathroom and to stretch your legs without disturbing others. If possible, choose seats with extra legroom, like those near the bulkhead. Bring a refillable water bottle (make sure it's empty before security) and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while avoiding too much caffeine and alcohol. 

Wear loose, breathable clothing that won’t restrict circulation and comfortable shoes. Compression socks can help with circulation and prevent swelling or deep vein thrombosis. Since plane temperatures can fluctuate from hot to cold, layering is a good idea. 

Keep your prescription medications in your carry-on luggage, just in case your checked-in bag arrives later. Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs can help to block out noise. Other useful items are moisturiser and lip balm, and you may want to bring a good book, although there are usually plenty of in-flight entertainment options to choose from. You might also want to pack an eye mask and a neck pillow to help you rest better, particularly if it’s an overnight flight.  

A portable power bank is a handy tool, especially if your flight doesn't have convenient charging ports. Just remember to pack it in your carry-on, as power banks should not go in checked baggage. 

Reach out to the airline for assistance  

If you're feeling anxious or need any special accommodations, don't hesitate to contact your airline ahead of time. They can assist with seating preferences, boarding help, or any other requests to make your flight more comfortable. 

Now, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your travels.  

At Ryman, our residents love exploring the world just as much as you do. For more travel tips and inspiring stories, visit our blog.