Planning a Summer Trip? Start Here.
Summer is a popular time for senior travel. Beach towns, national parks, historical sites, grandkids’ houses. The options are endless. But planning a safe trip takes more than just picking a destination and packing a bag.
Finding accessible transportation, managing medications across time zones, staying cool in the heat, avoiding scams. These are real concerns. And they’re the difference between a vacation you enjoy and one that stresses you out. We’ve put together a set of travel tips for seniors to help you plan a summer trip that’s actually fun, from the moment you leave home to the moment you get back.
If you’re new to GoGo, welcome! Learn more about GoGo Rides here to get started.
Before You Leave: Preparation Checklist
Talk to Your Doctor First
This is the CDC’s top recommendation for older travelers. Schedule a checkup 4–6 weeks before your trip, especially if you’re flying internationally. Ask about destination-specific vaccines, how to adjust medication schedules if you’re crossing time zones, and whether your health conditions require extra precautions.
Get Your Medications in Order
One of the most important travel tips for senior citizens: pack all prescriptions in your carry-on bag, not your checked luggage. Keep medications in their original labeled bottles (it makes customs easier). Bring a written list of every medication, the dosage, and your doctor’s contact info. Make two copies. One goes with you, the other stays in your suitcase.
Need a refill before your trip? GoGo Prescription Delivery can get your meds to your door so you’re stocked up and ready to go.
Consider Travel Insurance
Here’s something a lot of people skip: Medicare doesn’t cover healthcare costs outside the U.S. If you’re traveling internationally, a travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies can save you from a financial disaster. Even for domestic trips, travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency evacuations.
Protect Your Home While You’re Away
Stop your mail, ask a neighbor to check on your house, and put lights on timers so the place doesn’t look empty. Share your itinerary with a family member or friend so someone always knows where you are.
On the Road: Staying Safe and Comfortable
Use GoGo Rides at Your Destination
Dealing with unfamiliar roads, busy streets, and confusing public transit can drain the fun out of any trip. That’s where GoGoGrandparent comes in. You call a friendly operator, tell us where you are and where you’re going, and a vetted driver handles the rest. No smartphone app needed.
GoGo works in all 50 states, plus parts of Canada and Australia. So whether you’re visiting family in Michigan or sightseeing in California, you get the same service. Same number. Same care.
Why GoGo Rides Are Built for Senior Travelers
- Vetted drivers: All drivers are screened in advance. We save and log all interactions.
- Real-time monitoring: GoGoGuardians watch your ride from pickup to drop-off and step in if something seems off.
- Family notifications: Share trip details with loved ones so they always know you’re safe.
- Accessibility: We screen vehicles for wheelchairs, canes, and other mobility equipment.
- Advance scheduling: Book rides ahead of time for planned excursions, or request one on-demand when you’re ready.
Learn what makes GoGo safer than traditional rideshare.
Know the TSA Rules for Seniors
Good news for air travelers: TSA PreCheck for seniors is worth looking into. Passengers 75 and older can keep their shoes, light jackets, and belts on during screening. TSA PreCheck ($78 for 5 years) gets you into a faster line with fewer hassles. Apply online at tsa.gov.
Also: keep medications and medical devices in your carry-on. TSA allows liquid medications over 3.4 ounces if you declare them at the checkpoint.
Summer-Specific Travel Tips for Seniors
Beat the Heat
If you’re traveling somewhere hot, pack light and breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. Plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings, and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat (10am–4pm). For more detailed advice, see our summer safety tips for seniors.
Stay Hydrated (Especially While Flying)
Airplane cabins are notoriously dry. The National Research Council notes that cabin humidity can drop below 20%, which increases dehydration risk. Bring a large refillable water bottle and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Skip the coffee and alcohol on the plane.
Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Sitting still for hours on a plane or long car ride raises the risk of blood clots, especially for older adults. Wear compression stockings, stretch your legs every hour, and walk the aisle when you can. If you’re driving, take rest stops every 90 minutes.
Take Advantage of Senior Discounts
Hotels, rental cars, restaurants, museums, national parks. Many offer senior discounts starting at age 50 or 62. The America the Beautiful Senior Pass ($20/year or $80 lifetime) gets you free entry to over 2,000 federal recreation sites. Always ask, because most discounts aren’t advertised.
Travel Confidently With GoGoGrandparent
GoGoGrandparent takes the transportation stress out of senior travel. Safe rides in all 50 states. Prescription delivery before you leave. Grocery delivery when you get home. It’s a single service that covers the logistics so you can focus on the fun parts.
Register now to get started. Your next summer adventure is waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe for Seniors to Travel in the Summer?
Yes, with preparation. Talk to your doctor before traveling, pack medications in your carry-on, stay hydrated, avoid peak heat hours, and use accessible transportation like GoGoGrandparent. The CDC recommends scheduling a pre-travel health visit 4–6 weeks before departure.
Does GoGoGrandparent Work Outside My Home State?
Yes. GoGo Rides operates in all 50 U.S. states, plus parts of Canada and Australia. You use the same phone number and get the same quality service no matter where you’re vacationing.
Do Seniors Get TSA PreCheck Benefits?
Travelers 75 and older can keep their shoes, light jackets, and belts on during TSA screening. For even faster processing, apply for TSA PreCheck ($78 for 5 years) at tsa.gov.
What Should Seniors Pack for a Summer Trip?
Essentials include all medications in original bottles (in your carry-on), a written medication list, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, comfortable non-slip shoes, compression socks for flights, a refillable water bottle, copies of your ID and insurance, and emergency contact info.
Does Medicare Cover Medical Emergencies Abroad?
No. Original Medicare does not cover healthcare costs outside the United States. If you’re traveling internationally, purchase a travel insurance policy that includes medical emergency coverage. Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer limited overseas coverage, so check your plan.
