{"id":2023,"date":"2014-12-02T07:00:46","date_gmt":"2014-12-02T13:00:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.senioradvisor.com\/blog\/?p=2023"},"modified":"2017-04-20T15:03:02","modified_gmt":"2017-04-20T20:03:02","slug":"older-drivers-7-tips-for-the-perfect-road-trip","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/d30braiqprupoq.cloudfront.net\/blog\/2014\/12\/older-drivers-7-tips-for-the-perfect-road-trip\/","title":{"rendered":"Road Trip Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"

Road Trip Tips<\/h1>\n

7 Tips for Older Drivers<\/h2>\n

\"Road<\/p>\n

Travel and road trips are a great way to see new sights, visit with family and friends, and get some well-deserved rest and relaxation. If you\u2019re retired, a wonderful perk is the ability to pick up and go when you want.<\/p>\n

For seniors, especially those with health conditions, it\u2019s a good idea to invest a little time in planning before you hit the road. With planning, you can take advantage of senior travel deals to stretch your budget.<\/p>\n

In honor of National Older Drivers Safety Awareness Week, we present seven tips for the perfect road trip.<\/p>\n

1. Decide where you’re going<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re a AAA member, your local branch offers free travel guides with details on lodging with AAA rates and senior discounts. You can also check AAA or AARP online, or travel sites that won\u2019t cost you a thing such as TripAdvisor and Frommers. Another resource is your local library\u2019s travel section. Don\u2019t forget to ask family and friends for tips when selecting a destination.<\/p>\n

If budget and senior travel discounts are a priority, destinations you might consider are Las Vegas, Nevada, Washington, DC, and New Orleans, Louisiana to name a few.<\/p>\n

2. Create an itinerary and plan your route<\/h2>\n

Once you\u2019ve selected a destination and booked a room, build an itinerary to give to family, friends, or petsitters, if you\u2019re leaving your furry friend at home. Include your cell phone number if applicable, as well as any traveling companions\u2019 numbers.<\/p>\n

Pick up maps at your AAA or bookstores, or plan your route online and print and take it with you.
\nIf you don\u2019t have your own computer, you might be able to access one at a local library or a mailing service center for a fee.<\/p>\n

3. Get a tune up and pack smart<\/h2>\n

Check your vehicle\u2019s fluid levels and tire pressure before you leave, or have your local shop or dealership do it\u2014some will do it free of charge. Bring road service or auto insurance cards and phone numbers in case you need them.<\/p>\n

Build an emergency kit that includes jumper cables, a first aid kit, bottled water, snacks, and a few days of extra medication for you or companions. If you\u2019re traveling with a pet, include a kit for them as well. Bring medical bracelets, health insurance cards, and consider putting an index card in your wallet that lists health conditions, medications, and emergency contacts.<\/p>\n

4. Drive safely<\/h2>\n

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration<\/span><\/a>, \u201cThere were 35 million licensed older drivers in 2011\u2014a 21-percent increase from 2002.\u201d Those that are more at risk include seniors ages 80 to 84 and male drivers 65 and over.<\/p>\n

As we age, we experience physical and cognitive changes that affect our driving abilities, but you can help stay safe by practicing a few rules of the road. AAA recommends the following<\/span><\/a>:<\/p>\n