
Every year, thousands of elder relatives or senior parents, especially individuals over the age of 65 years travel to USA on their own. You, or even if you are helping your parents too, by using the same good judgment make the journey a breeze. Begin with caution and figure out as you travel what feels right to you. Create conditions that are likely to turn out in your favor, and with a little planning, you'll have a safer, smoother, more enjoyable travel to USA.
Note the below essential points:
A little research on the airport that they are flying out of, and the specific flight they will be taking helps your solo traveler to avoid problems. Call the airline to get this information and any other details you need to make travel decisions for your elderly companion. For example, this information helps you choose a seat with a movable armrest near the accessible restroom. Find out if you need medical forms to bring certain medical equipment on the plane. Your parent can travel with a personal wheelchair, or you can use a free wheelchair at the airport. The airlines wheelchair option is ideal for elderly travelers who can walk but have some mobility issues. Some airlines run out of wheelchairs at busy times, so an advanced reservation ensures you get one, even if it’s busy.
All passengers must go through screening at the security checkpoint, but you can get some modifications for your elderly passenger.
Here’s what to expect when taking your carry-on bag through security screening when you fly.
We recommend seniors traveling alone to keep your bag organized to help ease the screening process. Avoid carrying a jam-packed, cluttered, overstuffed bag.
Tips and Essentials - Note Impotant Points
Note the below essential points:
- Firstly, buy them an international calling card that can be used from anywhere along with instructions on how to use them. This is in case for some reason, their transit flight gets delayed or for any other reason they need to reach you on their way to US.
- Secondly, have them carry USD in change to get a cart for their luggage upon arrival in the USA. Having sufficient change ($5) would help them always for any urgent needs.
- Lastly, get wheelchair assistance added to your airline ticket. Most airlines accomadate this request at no additional charge or fees, especially for elder relatives or parents visiting USA
Tips and Essentials - Plan for the Journey to USA
A little research on the airport that they are flying out of, and the specific flight they will be taking helps your solo traveler to avoid problems. Call the airline to get this information and any other details you need to make travel decisions for your elderly companion. For example, this information helps you choose a seat with a movable armrest near the accessible restroom. Find out if you need medical forms to bring certain medical equipment on the plane. Your parent can travel with a personal wheelchair, or you can use a free wheelchair at the airport. The airlines wheelchair option is ideal for elderly travelers who can walk but have some mobility issues. Some airlines run out of wheelchairs at busy times, so an advanced reservation ensures you get one, even if it’s busy.
Tips and Essentials - Prepare for Security Check
All passengers must go through screening at the security checkpoint, but you can get some modifications for your elderly passenger.
Here’s what to expect when taking your carry-on bag through security screening when you fly.
- Electronics - You will be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin separately for screening.
- Food Items - Listen to the instructions of the airport security screening staff. In most cases, food or snacks such as fruit, health bars, and sandwiches can stay inside your carry-on bag. There are special instructions for liquids, gels, and aerosols and medically necessary items.
- Packing Foods - If you are preparing food for your flight, be aware that how and what you pack can impact the screening process. Be sure that you check for prohibited items and remember to follow the no carryon liquid rule.
We recommend seniors traveling alone to keep your bag organized to help ease the screening process. Avoid carrying a jam-packed, cluttered, overstuffed bag.
Tips and Essentials - Pack these Items Handy
There are plenty of things that can go wrong at the airport. So it is very important that you take care of all points to ensure that when you are traveling alone at the age of 65+ you will have a drama free experience.
These airport tips for senior travelers make their travel easier:
- Book a non-stop direct flight to your destination in the U.S.
- Carry your medications with you.
- Keep a list of emergency contacts on you.
- Wear one of the most comfortable dresses with easy access to your mobile.
- Wear comfortable shoes that can be removed for confoty during long flight.
- Drink plenty of water and pack some snacks, if you have dietery restrictions.
- Invest a small amount to upgrade your assigned seats with plenty of leg room.
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