Backpacking and Hiking Trail Etiquette for Smokers

If you’ve never been hiking before, the idea may sound intimidating and physically overwhelming. For smokers especially, hiking can seem like a more intense physical activity than your respiratory system can handle. Yet aside from being a great workout, there are other benefits of hiking that can improve your quality of life. For one, hiking is a great stress reliever, helping you improve your emotional balance and mental health. Hiking is also a great way to spend time with friends and loved ones — having a unified goal on a hike can strengthen relationships and improve your problem-solving skills as a group.

That being said, hiking or backpacking as a smoker will certainly be different compared to a non-smoker’s hiking experience. If you’re interested in trying hiking in the future, this post will be a helpful hiking and backpacking etiquette guide for smokers.

Be considerate and responsible

If the area you plan on hiking through doesn’t have smoking rules or laws, it’s still important to be considerate and responsible as a smoker. When hiking with a partner or a group, for example, be sure to ask if they’re alright with you smoking along the way or at your campsite. Most non-smokers are averse to cigarette smoke and the odor they leave behind, so lighting a cigarette without ensuring they’re okay with it can ruin their hiking experience.

Most importantly, be sure to practice fire safety when smoking on the trail. Littering your cigarette butts can be a fire hazard: leaves or grass can catch fire from their combustible remains, especially if you don’t put them out properly. Additionally, it’s crucial that you dispose of your cigarette butts in the right places to reduce harm to the environment. Cigarette butts aren’t biodegradable and can even endanger wildlife in the area, so keep yours on hand until you reach the nearest trash can.

Switch to smoke-free products

Some places have strict laws against cigarette smoking for hikers and backpackers, so you may have to leave your pack home. However, smoking withdrawal symptoms like headaches and nausea can risk your safety as you hike. To avoid this, consider using alternative nicotine products like pouches and lozenges to cope. The smoke-free nicotine pouches stocked on Prilla go between your gum and upper lip for up to an hour. They’re also spitless and odorless — great for places where the use of traditional tobacco products is frowned upon. Meanwhile, nicotine lozenges are much like regular lozenges. When placed in your mouth, they dissolve in around 20 to 30 minutes, relieving short-term cigarette cravings.

Pouches and lozenges can also be great for hikes because they don’t have the same environmental impact as cigarettes. Most nicotine pouches are sold in tin cans for easy storage and disposal. Some pouch containers even have built-in waste compartments that you can empty and clean out at the end of the day. On the other hand, nicotine lozenges are edible — so you don’t need to worry about how to dispose of them on your hike.

Treat hiking as exercise

Finally, even if you aren’t planning on quitting smoking anytime soon, treating your hiking trip as exercise can significantly improve your experience. On top of improving your mood and well-being and alleviating anxiety and depression, exercise also significantly reduces the mortality of smokers. It’s even considered a smoking cessation alternative, as it helps your cardiovascular and respiratory systems recover from the negative effects of cigarettes.

Additionally, our beginner’s guide to hiking notes that good fitness is essential if you want to enjoy hiking. Treating hiking as exercise can thus help counter the harms of smoking to your body and prepare you for a more pleasant hiking experience. You can also indulge in other sports like football, soccer, and baseball to build a basic level of endurance before your first trek. If you’re not into contact sports, try lighter exercises such as yoga and meditation to be more attuned to your body.

Trail Etiquette for Smokers – Final Thoughts

While hiking and backpacking may not be for everyone, you shouldn’t be deterred just because you smoke cigarettes. Just keep in mind to be courteous to other hikers in your group, especially if they are non-smokers, and to be respectful of the environment you’re hiking in. Bringing smoke-free alternatives to cigarettes can also help you better respect your surroundings and manage withdrawal symptoms that may affect your hiking experience. Most importantly, hiking is a great way to get some physical exercise to keep your body healthy as a smoker.

Top 11 Reasons Why Phuket Is So Popular (And 5 Reasons Why It Isn’t!)

Are you thinking of taking your next holiday to Thailand? Maybe you’ve been wondering why Phuket is so popular. If you want to discover what makes it such a famous holiday destination, you’re in the right spot!

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest island that it actually seems more like an extension of the mainland. Even so, it still has everything you could want when you picture a tropical holiday. The paradise island is a picture-perfect utopia.

But what else makes Phuket so popular? Is it somewhere you should be taking your next holiday and what about the bad stuff?

In this post, we’ll talk about why Phuket is so popular and why it isn’t, all so you can work out if it’s the right place for you!

Why Is Phuket So Popular?

Phuket is known across the world as a popular holiday destination, but why? It’s actually quite an easy question to answer. I bet you’ve all seen pictures of the island featuring white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and a very happy individual bearing a cocktail of some sort.

The beautiful shorelines around Phuket

The beautiful shorelines around Phuket

This is exactly what Phuket is. It’s a sunny paradise, an idyllic escape, a place of dreams and a place which is still amazingly very affordable for tourists; the second reason why it’s so popular and what makes it an attractive holiday spot! 

In truth, there are many reasons why Phuket is so popular, the latest was an ingenious idea to put it back on the map after a devastating couple of years.  

In 2022 the country opened up a unique scheme, known as the Sandbox Scheme, which encouraged tourists to visit Thailand while being confined to the island; promoting travel and quickly re-establishing Phuket as Thailand’s most popular tourist destination!

In truth, we contributed to this number (which reached over 2.5 million) as Phuket was where we chose to enter Thailand after we’d spent a budget-friendly 5-days in Singapore. Unbeknown to us, we actually caught covid in Singapore!

What Happened You Ask?

Nothing too noteworthy but it did mean we had to change our plan. The plan was to stay the 7 days before travelling around the country. However, after testing positive on our second test and an additional 10 days of quarantine, we ended up staying in Phuket longer. 

The result was more time to explore the island which turned into a blessing. Phuket is a breathtaking island which caters to both nature lovers and party people. The landscape is stunning, the sun is always shining, the water warm and the food delicious. 

There’s not much not to like about Phuket, but to make sure you don’t visit with unrealistic expectations we’re going to provide 5 reasons why Phuket isn’t so popular as well as 11 reasons why it is!

11 Reasons Why Phuket Is So Loved

Firstly, let’s dive into more detail about the reasons why Phuket is so loved. I’ve mentioned some above but there are more. Keep reading to find out all the reasons Phuket is so popular, and why it isn’t!

1. The Sunshine

Aerial view of Phuket with its many beaches

Aerial view of Phuket with its many beaches

The main thing which draws the crowds to Phuket is the weather. The sunshine, to be precise, is always warm and welcoming. Thailand has a year-round tropical climate which means it’s sunny, all the time. 

If you’re a sun worshipper and looking for that sunkissed holiday glow, you’ll love Phuket! 

2. The Beaches

Follow up those sunny days with incredible beaches and you’ll feel like you’re in heaven. As it goes, Phuket is full of beaches; it’s an island after all! Some are busier while others are secluded but whichever beach you choose they are famous for its pristine waters, white sand and stunning scenery.

3. The Culture

We love Thai culture! It’s one of the country’s biggest draws and attracts many tourists who, like us, appreciate the rich culture. You’ll find Thai heritage and Buddhism deeply ingrained in their society. Phuket is most famous for a 45-meter marble-covered Buddha statue, known as Phuket Big Buddha. 

There are many temples, both new and ancient, which can be explored while visiting Phuket. You’ll find plenty of museums and even tours offering day excursions to local villages where you can spend the day learning about traditional practices.

4. The Hospitality

Did you know that Thailand is known as the land of smiles? Thai people are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality. Visiting A foreign country with such a different culture can sometimes feel overwhelming, but in Thailand, the locals are so friendly that it can make you feel welcome and at home.

This is another reason why Thailand is so popular, because who wants to go somewhere and not feel welcome? From experience, I can tell you it’s not nice!

5. The Landscape

It’s just like what you’ll see on a postcard, I kid you not, Phuket has an amazing landscape! There are mountains and forests to rice paddies and waterfalls. 

The most famous is the Karst landforms which you’ll find dotted along the coast and are popular for visiting during day excursions while island hopping around the tropical beaches, these make for magnificent photos. 

Phuket"s Karst Limestone Tower

Phuket”s Karst Limestone Tower

If you’re a lover of nature and wildlife you’ll love exploring the natural beauty of Phuket, and even Thailand!

6. The Islands

Even though Phuket is an island, it does feel more like part of the mainland only because it’s pretty big. However, if you want to visit smaller islands, where you can walk from one side to the other there are plenty just off Phuket’s coast. 

The most popular islands to visit are Phi Phi Island, Banana Island and the ‘James Bond Islands’, expect more stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

That said, our all-time favourite island in Thailand is the small island of Koh Mook. You can reach it from Phuket although you’ll need to change boats at Koh Lanta. Plan 3 nights at least!

7. The Affordability

Thailand is known for its affordable prices, making it a popular destination for budget-conscious travellers. The affordability of food, accommodation and transport makes a holiday to Phuket that much more appealing.

That said, it can also get expensive! If you’re choosing a luxurious holiday, eating out at top-end restaurants and taking daily excursions the price of your holiday is going to spike. However, compared to the same holiday in the Caribbean, it will be much cheaper!

8. The Accommodation

Phuket offers a huge selection of accommodations from budget hotels to luxury resorts. It’s got something for everyone, to suit everyone’s travel style. What’s even better is that even the top-rated hotels can still be affordable. 

Overall, you’ll get much more for your money in Phuket than say in New York or London. The fact you can stay in some accommodations which might have otherwise been a dream is another reason why Phuket is so popular.

We stayed in Phuket Town which can be slightly more affordable than staying by the beaches. If you don’t mind travelling to the beach on the local bus and are looking for an affordable and cultural location in Phuket, then Phuket Town has some of the best hotels!

9. The Cuisine

I’ve briefly mentioned how affordable the food is but it’s also delicious. Thai cuisine is one of our favourites and is world-renowned for its bold flavours, fresh ingredients and unique combinations making it a major draw for foodies. 

In Phuket, you will notice loads of markets and food street stalls. Don’t shy away from trying that food at these, not only are they delicious but also extremely affordable! 

One of our favourite local food markets was in Phuket Town. We would walk past it every morning and evening and always grab something whether we knew what it was or not, 9/10 times it was very tasty! 

10. The Markets

The large markets in Phuket are not only great for food lovers but also great for anyone looking for anything! They are full of stalls selling a wide variety of products such as fresh produce, souvenirs to clothing and electronics.

You’ll find knock-off designer brands and food stalls and they are the go-to place for gift buying. For yourself or others, you’ll find everything at the markets in Phuket!

We visited the Weekend Market just outside the old town which sells a huge selection of products and Thai delicacies. It’s where we tried deep-fried insects, just because when you’re in Thailand this is what you do right? Toasted up with seasoning and kaffir lime leaves, they weren’t that bad but still not that great…

11. The Night Life

If you love a night-time tipple and dancing until the sun comes up, Phuket is for you. It’s world-known as being a party island and there are areas which live up to this reputation – Patong. 

You’ll find a vibrant nightlife scene with bustling night markets, music blaring from speakers along the roadside and countless bars and clubs to explore. 

That said, you can still experience a quieter, calmer Phuket away from the nighttime escalades if you choose. Just stay away from Patong! 

This is why Phuket attracts such a variety of tourists; it’s great for party-goers but is also perfect for families, nature enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed holiday.

5 Reasons Why Phuket Isnt Loved So Much

So now you know all the reasons why Phuket is so popular what about the reasons for not visiting?

1. Higher Prices

I know I said how affordable Phuket is for most tourists, but when compared to the rest of Thailand it’s actually more expensive. Thailand is an affordable country overall but because Phuket is such a popular holiday destination within Thailand the prices are hiked up, particularly in terms of accommodation and food.

If you’re looking for a truly budget-friendly holiday experience, Phuket might not be the right place for you. Due to this reason, many people choose to skip Phuket, and instead head to other areas within the country.

2. Touristy Atmosphere

Another reason Phuket isn’t so popular is that some people find it to be too touristy. Many of the attractions and activities are geared towards tourists rather than offering an authentic cultural experience. Especially if you’re staying along the beaches it’s possible to miss out on the culture.

We stayed in Phuket Town and loved the mix of cultures in the old town. For us, it made our experience in Phuket more authentic. We visited temples, and museums and walked around the old town’s streets immersing ourselves in the lovely Sino-Portugese architecture. 

3. Environmental Issues

With increased tourism comes the issue of environmental degradation. Phuket has experienced its fair share of environmental issues, such as pollution and overdevelopment, which can be a turn-off for some visitors.

4. Overcrowding

Overcrowding at Maya Bay near Phuket

Overcrowding at Maya Bay near Phuket

Linked to the environmental impacts above the issue of overcrowding can be a problem. Phuket can be very crowded, especially during peak season, which can detract from the overall experience.

It’s difficult to escape the crowds in places such as Phuket but you can choose to stay at less populated beaches and visit during the quieter periods. But, if you’re someone who prefers a more quiet and tranquil holiday you’re more likely to not enjoy visiting Phuket.

5. Party Scene

Bangla Road, Phuket

Bangla Road, Phuket

While the nightlife in Phuket might be popular with some of you, the rest of you may find the party scene to be too loud, raucous, and overwhelming. It’s famous for a reason and it’s not to everyone’s taste!

However, you can choose to stay away from the party scene. Jack and I enjoyed a more peaceful escape in Phuket as we aren’t big drinkers and although we enjoyed a few nights out it was never the main focus of our time in Phuket. 

Why Is Phuket So Popular For Tourists?

Overall, we enjoyed our time in Phuket. As tourists, we felt that it catered to all our needs and was a good place to start our travel through Thailand. Immersing yourself in a new culture can be overwhelming to begin with and if it’s your first time overseas, Phuket makes for a great spot to visit.

It’s got a good mix of west meets east and since it’s been a tourist hot spot for decades the tourism infrastructure is well-established. This means that travelling to Phuket and taking excursions and tours is very simple helping to make your holiday experience easy and hassle-free.

In terms of natural beauty, cuisine and cultural attractions Phuket has it all and although it might not be the ideal destination for some travellers you’ll find it hard to not find something you enjoy in Phuket. 

With all this in mind and alongside the stunning beaches and the tropical atmosphere, affordability and kindness of the local Thai community Phuket has become a very popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

When Did Phuket Become So Popular?

Interestingly, Phuket’s emergence as a popular tourist destination can be traced back as far as the latter half of the 20th century. In the 1960s and 70s, backpackers began flocking to the island to enjoy the natural beauty and hospitality that Phuket is now so popular for. 

As tourism grew, hotels and resorts began to open, and in the early ’70s, an international airport was built, making Phuket much more accessible to tourists.

Phuket’s popularity was increased even more by its appearance in several Hollywood films, including “The Man with the Golden Gun” and “The Beach,” which helped to attract even more visitors. 

These days, Phuket has become a resort destination and has a reputation for being safe and hospitable, making it a popular destination for families and solo travellers alike.

Why Are There So Many Westerners In Phuket?

This is a good question! Well, we would say that there are many Westerners in Phuket for several reasons. Firstly, Phuket is a well-known tourist destination that offers beautiful beaches, warm weather, and a wide range of activities that appeal to Western travellers. It is paradise after all! 

The island also has many amenities and conveniences that cater to Western tastes, including restaurants serving international cuisine and Western-style hotels and resorts. Due to this, there is a large expat community, providing a sense of familiarity and a home away from home. 

Another reason is because of the island’s location, it makes for a popular stopover for travellers wanting to explore the rest of Southeast Asia.

On top of that, the cost of living in Phuket is relatively low compared to Western countries, making it an attractive destination for long-term stays. Many Westerners come to Phuket to retire and work remotely and so you’ll find that there are many Westerners in Phuket.

Conclusion: Why Is Phuket So Popular?

Phuket is so popular for many reasons but the main ones come down to affordability, landscape and friendliness of the locals. With such a combination, it’s no wonder Phuket is a much-loved holiday destination.

Hopefully, you have found this article useful in helping you determine if Phuket is somewhere you would like to visit. If it’s you’re first time heading to Asia it’s an excellent place to start your travels. 

If it’s not, it’s still somewhere which can be enjoyed by all types of travellers. Since you can find incredible deals, it’s a great place to visit for a relaxing holiday in the sun too.

Why Is Cycling Such a Good Way to Discover a New Place

The wind blowing in your hair under your helmet, feeling the sun on your back, even the dull ache that you get in your legs the next day after a good workout, there’s nothing quite like cycling – especially when it comes to exploring somewhere new. Whether you’re travelling alone or with other people, cycling offers a unique way to discover a new destination. Here are 5 reasons why:

Cycling is excellent exercise – and good for your physical health

It’s widely known that cycling is great for your health. Not only does it strengthen your immune system, help you build muscle, and skyrocket your lung health, but cycling is also a great way to improve your overall fitness and care for your heart; studies show that just 30 minutes of cycling a day – which could be beginning to explore somewhere new – will quickly start to benefit your cardiovascular system and keep your heart healthy. Cycling is also a low-impact exercise, which means that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.

You’ll see things you wouldn’t have if you’d travelled by car

Have you ever travelled somewhere new but instead spent hours stuck behind other vehicles on the road? By cycling, you can see way more of a new destination and take in a wild array of different environments and jaw-dropping landscapes. Not to mention miss standstill traffic! Given how many countries have smooth tarmac roads that are perfect to cycle on, or reams of quiet countryside roads apt for travelling on two wheels, this form of transport truly lends itself to exploring somewhere new. Some places even have their own traffic-free cycle paths for travellers and locals to enjoy.

You’re more in contact with nature – which is good for your mental health

Disconnecting from the outside world and exploring your natural environment has been proven to boost your mental health; a study by the YMCA discovered that people who had a physically active lifestyle had a well-being score 32 per cent higher than individuals that were inactive. Indeed, cycling mixes physical exercise with being outdoors and exploring new views.

Cycling solo is a great way to process any worries without the chatter of daily life while riding with a group broadens your social circle and encourages you to connect with people outside a screen. It’s also a great way to soak up the sun and get some much-needed Vitamin D, so deficient in today’s world. For a true retreat into nature, consider cycling holidays – the best way to escape your 9-5 but still remain social with the family and friends that join you.

Cycling helps you immerse yourself in the history and culture of a country

While travelling by bus or car will get you to all the best landmarks and cities, travelling by bike will help you truly immerse yourself in the local culture – sometimes the best way to explore a new place is by doing the routes in between the big landmarks! This is where you can witness the local life and the truly authentic version of the culture you want to explore. Cycling will give you a unique perspective of the place you’re visiting, giving you the opportunity to experience sounds, sights and even smells that you wouldn’t perceive by car.

Cycling is budget and environmentally friendly

Aside from the initial cost of the bike (which can easily be offset by buying second-hand or paying gradually and tax-free through a Cycle to Work scheme), cycling is free. This makes it a great budget option for exploring a new city… When cycling you won’t need to pay for gas, parking, or public transportation, which can add up quickly!

As well as being a cheap way to discover a new place, it’s also an environmentally friendly option, too. Studies have shown that cycling produces zero carbon pollution, which means you’ll also be doing your bit for congestion-related emissions nearby!

You might be able to meet new people

One of the best things about travelling – especially for those looking for enriching and memorable experiences – is meeting new people along the way. Cycling is a great way to meet new people while on vacation, as there are countless cycling groups all over the world. When you go to a new place, it can be as easy as finding someone wearing some professional-looking cycling gear and asking them for tips or suggestions to cycle in the area. This can be a fun way to make new friends and learn more about the place you’re visiting.

Perfect for all ages and abilities, and super easy to fit into your daily schedule, cycling boasts a large range of benefits. One of the biggest? Being a healthy, budget-friendly, and eye-opening way to discover a new destination.

6 Must-See Waterfront Destinations in the Balkans

The Balkan region, located in south-eastern Europe, offers a wealth of potential holiday destinations.

Rich in history, culture, and with a sunny summer climate, there are countless reasons why a holiday to the Balkans could be a great choice for this summer. Cheaper than most of Northern Europe, there is plenty of scope for everything from a quick weekend getaway to a two-week vacation.

If you’d like to visit the area but are undecided on exactly where to go, the following guide will talk you through three must-see waterfront destinations in the Balkans that you should consider.

Dalmatian Islands

Hvar Island, one of the beautiful Dalmatian Islands

Hvar Island, one of the beautiful Dalmatian Islands

If you’re up for an adventure, the Dalmatian Islands could be the perfect location for you.

Located south of the Croatian coastline, there are many islands for you to visit and explore, the most famous being Hvar. With beautiful towns to discover, you won’t be short of things to do during your days on these islands. There is also plenty to do in the evenings, with a host of restaurants and lively piazzas to enjoy.

If you are unsure about which island is best for you or aren’t confident about your navigation skills, you could consider booking a walking holiday in Croatia. This will allow you to take a guided tour of both mainland Croatia and a range of islands too. This could be ideal if you are travelling alone and looking to meet like-minded people.

Don’t worry if you are looking for something slower-paced, the Dalmatian Islands are home to some incredible beaches, ideal for fully switching off.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Even though some might have not heard of Dubrovnik, many will probably recognise it by the resemblance between this stunning town and King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.

Dubrovnik is a medieval town famous for its clear blue sea and ancient city walls, one of its most popular attractions. Tourists can wander the old town, rich in history and breathtaking views, where restaurants and local shops overlook the narrow streets.

Piran, Slovenia

Piran, Slovenia

Piran, Slovenia

If you’re looking for somewhere to immerse yourself in culture, you should think about a trip to Piran this summer.

Located in southwestern Slovenia, Piran is famous for both its beautiful Venetian architecture and its pier. There is much more than that on offer though, with Piran also having a maritime museum, an aquarium, a theatre, and several galleries. Not only is there lots to explore but most of it can be done on foot, with cars not allowed within the old city area.

If you aren’t up for staying in one place, Piran is just 1.5 hours from Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana, and 2.5 hours from Venice, meaning there is potential to make this a multi-destination trip.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is one of the most visited locations in Slovenia and for good reason.

Lake Bled is often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Tourists can walk around the lake in 1-2 hours, taking in the stunning views and photogenic landscape. In the warmer seasons, people can also swim in this lake or explore by boat, paddleboard or kayak.

As a popular destination for tourists who visit Slovenia, Lake Bled is home to many restaurants and hotels that are located on the very edge of the lake. One example is Vila Bled, which guarantees direct access to the lake and overlooks Bled Island, a small and picturesque island that rises from the lake.

The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro

If you’re wanting to embrace nature on your holiday, Montenegro is an excellent choice.

Bordering Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, and the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro boasts a combination of gorgeous beaches and mountains. Home to five national parks, you certainly don’t need to worry about finding walking trails or picnic spots to suit you! The most beautiful waterfront place in Montegro is the Bay of Kotor, often called Europe’s southernmost fjord.

If your feet become tired after lots of exploring, you could hop on a train from Bijelo Polje to Stari Bar. Despite only being 250km in length, this route will take you from mountain to coast, with stunning views along the way.

Skopelos, Greece

Skopelos, Greece

Skopelos, Greece

Skopelos rose to fame in 2008 thanks to Mamma Mia!, the ABBA-inspired musical. This small island is the ideal retreat for anyone who is looking for a relaxing Mediterranean holiday.

Skopelos offers a number of peaceful beaches with the opportunity to swim in the clearest of seas. Scuba diving, stand-up paddling and kayaking are just some of the activities that are made available to tourists. Hiking is another popular activity when the temperature allows it; old footpaths on the island can lead to unexpected places like secluded beaches and hilltops, which provide breathtaking views of the island and surrounding sea.

To ensure you have a great hiking experience in Skopelos, be sure to get the AllTrails app before you go. The app has reviews from other hikers to keep you up to date on the latest trail conditions. You can filter by trail difficulty, length, and suitability and download trail maps to help keep you on track even when you’re offline.

Traveling With Elderly Parents: How to Make the Most Out of Your Trip!

Post-pandemic, families are giving priority to travel. So, if you have decided to travel with your older parents for a change, certain traveling tips can make it a pleasant experience for you. All you need is to plan your trip carefully if you are traveling with older parents who may not be as energetic and healthy as you. 

So, if you are thinking about traveling to the beach, hill station, another city abroad, etc., proper planning and research on the destination can make your trip enjoyable and safe. The most important factors are choosing the location, considering its weather conditions and kind of crowd. Also, check if a good medical facility is available and readily accessible in that location.

With this in mind, here are some tips to help your elderly parents travel comfortably and make the most of your trip.

Choose Travel Time Thoughtfully

If you haven’t already chosen a location and a schedule for your trip with your elderly parents, consider it. It should be as simple as possible to achieve your goal irrespective of the place and align with your budget, time, activity limits, and trip preferences.

Don’t ideally travel to a place where you have a large list of things you want to check off your bucket list. Some will be difficult to see and fulfill, especially when traveling with older parents. Your experience won’t ultimately live up to your initial motivation for taking your parents on a trip.

Instead, choose a location that will improve the activities you already like doing together with your older parents. For instance, if you enjoy taking walks and sipping tea together, consider renting a homestay resort with scenic views and access to neighboring walking paths.

Plan a Pre-Trip Doctor Visit

Ensure a smooth trip with your senior parents

Ensure a smooth trip with your older parents

A check-up with your older parent’s doctor is necessary to ensure they are physically capable of handling the rigors of a long vehicle journey or flight and all your planned location has to offer. Confirm the medications they need to bring, any food restrictions they need to follow, and any other issues or suggestions you want them to be aware of. Planning a pre-trip doctor visit is especially important if your elderly parents already suffer from any major health issues. 

Consider the Safety and Comfort of your Older Parents

Nowadays, flying is very different from what it formerly was. Longer airport queues result from increased security procedures intended to keep passengers safe. Make sure everyone gets there at least two hours before the departure. Always reserve a nonstop, direct flight to your destination if possible.

Ask your parents to carry their documents and money belt to keep essential papers or money hidden. These are excellent security precautions to keep cash and identity safe and away from thieves. When traveling, don’t compromise on comfort. Consider investing in a travel cushion, a c-shaped inflatable pillow that supports the neck and head when traveling.

Taking Medication

An adult’s daily routine frequently includes taking medication. When traveling, it’s critical to keep emergency medication at hand. Pack any prescription drugs and beverages you need for their health before proceeding through the security checkpoint. Remind your parents to take their medication during the flight. Senior citizens with major illnesses must carry their medicines as they may not be readily available at their destination.

Be Mindful of Mobility

Be mindful of mobility when traveling with senior parents

Be mindful of mobility when traveling with older parents

You should be cautious about their mobility throughout the vacation if your elderly loved one utilizes a wheelchair or walker to go around. Do they have trouble navigating small spaces and stairwells, for instance? Make plans to relocate the assistive equipment while boarding a connecting flight if you plan to travel by air.

Talk to Travel Representatives About Your Safety

It’s crucial to talk with the management once you’ve selected a reliable airline and reserved a hotel or resort for your getaway. You might need to seek specific services and accommodations to guarantee your older parent’s safety and well-being throughout the family trip. Speak with staff in advance if you want to book appointments and purchase tickets for certain tourist sites and excursions in the city you’ll be visiting.

With your elderly parent present, you may review the attractions and choose which ones to reserve for the trip. By checking in advance, you can be sure that your elderly parent will be secure and at ease, throughout any outings your family plans to take. Using the internet as a research and shopping resource is a wonderful idea for all tourists, particularly older travelers.

Conduct Periodic Health Checks During the Trip

If they are taking medicine for high blood pressure, be mindful of any physical issues and watch for any elevated blood pressure symptoms. Be sure to include time for mom or dad to continue their workouts and therapy while traveling if they have recently recovered from a physical injury or surgery.

For Elderly Parents, Take Proper Measures for Incontinence Issues

If your elderly parents have incontinence issues, their clothes may get soiled if proper measures are not taken. So, to handle such problems efficiently, it is important to carry good-quality and high-absorbency adult diapers for men and women. These products can be a savior for your parents during traveling. Moreover, it can also save them from embarrassment in public places. It will also prevent incontinence accidents, and they no longer have to worry about getting their clothes soiled. Quality diapers are discreet and provide safety and comfort without hampering the fun of your trip. Also, carry comfortable clothing so that wearing diapers does not cause discomfort.

Plan For the Unexpected

Maintain a list of emergency phone numbers on your phone, and always have a paper copy with you. Verifying the location of other facilities that may be required, such as bathrooms and places to stop for food, drinks, or other necessities, such as the nearest hospital to where you will be staying, is also helpful. If your family member gets lost and needs to contact you, ensure they have an identity card with your name and mobile number.

Traveling with Older Parents – Final Thoughts

For many, organizing and participating in a fun-filled family trip might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You want your parents to be secure and at ease during the journey. Hence, consider these helpful suggestions to ensure your older parent is ready and cared for throughout the family trip.