Traveling is such a wonderful way to entertain yourself, break up the boredom in one’s life and enjoy the company of your family or friends. Taking the trip also helps your make new friends who can become pen pals or travel companions.

In planning your trip there are numerous things that should be added to your travel list of DO NOT FORGETS.  No one wants to spoil the trip by forgetting an important item.   Your list of DO NOT FORGETS should include the following:

• Make sure you have all your medicines poured and placed in your carry on.  Always be sure to take at least 5 days additional medicine in case your return trip becomes delayed or extended.  You do not want to worry because you didn’t take enough medicine. Do make a list of your prescription information which will allow you to order more medicine if needed.
• Make you sure you include antacids, antibiotic lotions, cortisone lotion, bandaids, sun tan lotion, and any other personal items that you use regularly.
• Make sure that wherever you are going does not require you to have any special vaccinations.  Even modern countries can have outbreaks of disease occasionally.
• Make sure that your jewelry is costume and not heirlooms.  You don’t want to lose anything special which would put a damper on your trip.
• Make sure that you have a copy of the most recent medical record, your advance directives, power of attorney for medical and financial matters. This is important if you become ill while away.
• Make sure that your walking shoes are the most comfortable you can buy. Sore feet are not a good experience on vacation.
• Make sure that you consider your safety when planning side trips.  Take into your consideration your health limitations and be realistic about what you can accomplice. Breaking bones on your trip can be quite detrimental to the continuation of your trip.
• Make sure you have an extra pair of prescription glasses and sunglasses.  Losing eyeglasses or misplacing them while traveling is quite common. Numerous pairs of contact lenses are also necessary
• Make a list of your emergency numbers, your medicines, your hotel etc. and place in your wallet. You may need them.
• Make sure your passport stays in your room or in the hotel safe when touring.
• Make sure your wallet is kept in your front pocket or in an safe place when it can not be taken easily.
• Make sure your clothing is climate appropriate and allows for ease of movement and comfort.
• Make sure you bring a sun hat. If your head is not covered with much hair make sure it is covered with a hat.
• Make sure if you have serious allergies that you carry a card or wear a bracelet. Make sure you carry whatever medicine your doctor orders for an allergic reaction and keep it on you at all times.  Make sure you always inform your waiter of any food allergies and question what is contained in fancy foods.
• Make sure while on vacation you leave your computer at home and your blackberry.  Vacation is not an extension of work.
• Make sure you leave unnecessary credit cards at home.  Make sure you have the numbers of the card companies kept in your room.  If they are stolen or lost you can then report them immediately.

This is your seasoned traveler signing over and out.    Be sure to continue to look for more travel ideas for seniors in the future.