There has never been a better time for older Australians to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture in our own backyard. Whether you're planning a short country getaway or a long-term road trip, a little preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Here are our top travel tips to help you stay well on the road.
1. Pack Light and Bring Only the Essentials
It’s a true skill to pack only what you need, but it’s worth the effort. Lugging heavy suitcases around can lead to back strain or other injuries. Plan your outfits based on your activities and remember that you can buy most essentials in any major town. Limited storage space, especially in a caravan or campervan, is another great reason to pack light.
2. Consider Your Mobility When Planning Activities
Be realistic about your physical abilities when planning your itinerary. Challenging hiking trails or activities that require a lot of standing might be difficult if you have stiff joints or limited mobility.
This doesn't mean you have to sit on the sidelines. If you have a dream activity in mind, just be sure to plan for it. Allow for a day of rest before and after a strenuous outing. If you plan to be more active than usual, try increasing your exercise in the weeks leading up to your trip to build up your strength and stamina.
3. A Mobility Aid Can Make Travel More Enjoyable
Don't let mobility concerns hold you back. A travel-friendly mobility aid can be the difference between sitting out an activity and exploring a fascinating new museum or scenic lookout.
Medihub offers a range of portable aids perfect for travellers:
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Folding Lightweight Wheelchairs: These are compact and ideal for sightseeing. They are available in both self-propelled and attendant-propelled models.
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Folding Walking Sticks: For those who only need occasional support, a folding stick is small enough to fit in a handbag or backpack until it's needed.
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Folding Power Wheelchairs: For longer distances, a portable power wheelchair like the Transit+ offers a super lightweight frame that folds in seconds. With a long-range battery, you can explore all day.
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Travel Mobility Scooters: A portable boot scooter can be easily disassembled to fit in a car boot, giving you the freedom to tackle everything from city paths to local markets.
4. Allow Plenty of Time to Relax and Recharge
Holidays are not a race. Resist the temptation to rush from one attraction to the next. A more relaxed pace is often far more enjoyable. Leave unscheduled time in your itinerary to simply read a book, wander through a local town, or enjoy the company of your travel companions.
Ready for your next adventure? Browse Medihub’s range of travel aids and accessories, available through our network of pharmacies and allied health professionals across Australia.