Senior Holiday Travel Tips: Stay Safe and Stress-Free

Hi there, friends! I’m Kevin, the owner of All-Star Medical. While I may not be a senior myself, I’ve dedicated over 15 years to serving seniors and individuals with limited mobility. I’ve learned a thing or two about making travel more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll share my insights and tips to help you plan safe and stress-free trips, whether you’re embarking on a summer vacation, a winter getaway, or a holiday adventure. No matter the season, I’ve got information to make your travels as enjoyable as possible. We’ll cover everything from airline travel and road trip planning to portable mobility options. And of course, I’ll be sharing some of All-Star Medical’s top-quality products that can help make your travels comfortable. 

Airline Travel Tips

Air travel can be a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination, even for those who use a power mobility aid. It’s important to plan ahead and take steps to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.

• Booking:
  • Consider direct flights to minimize layovers and fatigue.
  • Book seats in the front or near the exit for easier boarding and disembarking.
  • If you’re traveling with a power wheelchair or mobility scooter, ensure that your device’s battery is airline-approved.
  • Contact the airline to confirm ask about the procedures for boarding with and storing your mobility aid.
• Packing:
  • Use a suitcase with wheels to make navigating the airport easier.
  • Use a daily pill organizer for essential medications rather than packing the bottles. 
  • Safely pack any medical equipment and include the power cords.
  • Ensure that any liquids you pack meet the TSA requirements here.
  • Consider using a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry program for expedited security.
• Airport Experience:
  • When you first arrive, request assistance at the check-in counter for boarding, baggage, and navigation.
  • Allow extra time for security and check-in procedures.
  • If you have a long flight, you can stop into one of the shops near the gate to get a healthy snack and water. 
• In-Flight Comfort:
  • Bring a neck pillow and compression socks for comfort. 
  • If you are able to, get up and walk around the cabin periodically to prevent stiffness.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Road Trip Tips

Road trips offer a unique sense of freedom and adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a short weekend getaway or a cross-country journey, planning ahead can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Planning:
  • Research routes and plan rest stops and hotel reservations in advance.
  • Use your phone or car’s navigation system to enter your destination address. 
  • Take your car to have the fluids and tires checked and perform any maintenance needed. 
  • Check the weather forecast for your route routinely and adjust plans as needed. 
• Packing:
  • Pack essentials like snacks, water, medications, and entertainment.
  • Bring a first-aid kit and emergency supplies.
  • Keep items like water, snacks, your phone and charger within reach. 
  • If the area is subject to inclement weather, include a 24 hour kit with food, water, flashlight, extra blankets, road flares or other other means to signal help. 
• Driving Safety:
  • Take breaks every couple of hours to rest and stretch.
  • Get a bluetooth speaker, if your car isn’t equipped with one, so you can safely use your phone. Image of bluetooth car speaker
  • Avoid driving during peak hours or in adverse weather conditions.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and follow traffic laws.

Portable Mobility Options

If you’re considering a power mobility device or have concerns about your mobility for upcoming trips, now is the perfect time to invest in one. Portable scooters and power wheelchairs are not only great for home and community use but are also ideal for travel. Image of woman carrying folded wheelchair to the trunk. Bringing your own power mobility aid, such as a folding scooter or power wheelchair, can provide you with security, accessibility, and peace of mind while traveling. These devices can provide the support and independence you need to explore new places and enjoy your adventures.

• Folding Scooters and Power Wheelchairs:

Folding mobility scooters and folding power wheelchairs are the perfect solution for those adventurous individuals who struggle with balance or endurance but aren’t ready to stop exploring. Both options easily fold up for easy storage in home or transport in the car, airplane, or cruise ship. There are even models that fold on their own with the push of a button. Like the Majestic IQ-7000 wheelchair and the MOJO Auto-Fold mobility scooter. Because they are designed to be portable, folding scooters and wheelchairs are lightweight and aren’t meant to be used off road. They also generally have a shorter battery life than full size models however, they still enough power to get you through a day of shopping or exploring. 

• Portable Power Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters:

“Portable” and “Folding” may seem like the same thing but it’s important to know that when it comes to power mobility, there is a difference. Portable power wheelchairs  and portable mobility scooters do include folding models, but also include models that can break down into smaller pieces for easy transportation.

The BuzzAbout Power Wheelchair is a full size option with a weight rating of 300lbs. When it is assembled, it weighs 155 lbs but, in just a matter of minutes, you can break it into 4 parts and stow it in the trunk of the car.

If you are looking for a portable mobility scooter then the GoGo EliteTraveller 2 is a perfect example. It has an impressively tight turning radius and is sturdy enough to support 300 lbs for all day use. Like the BuzzAbout, it also breaks down into 4 lightweight parts (not including the storage basket), that will fit in the trunk or back seat when you are ready to go. 

Start Your Journey at All-Star Medical

Remember, with a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy safe and stress-free travel. All-Star Medical is committed to helping you stay mobile and independent, no matter where your travels take you. 

We offer a wide range of mobility products, including power mobility devices, walkers, and rollators. And if you are shopping online, we offer free shipping on orders of $50 or more, to anywhere in the continental United States.

Or if you are in the Nashville area, visit one of our locations to try out our power mobility options and find the perfect fit for your needs. Our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring your satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you stay active and independent.