Retired, Rewired, and Ready to Roll

Traveling in your later years is a bit like fine wine, it gets better with age, mostly because you finally have the time, the wisdom, and the unapologetic confidence to advocate for what you want.

Whether you travel to learn something new, meet new people or connect more deeply with those you already love, travel gives you something to look forward to now that the holidays have passed. And travel gives you great stories to share at your next social event. You don't have to go far, but then again, why not push yourself out of your comfort zone, experience something new, and challenge yourself?

Travel can also be a great way to stay fit. Whether you are walking through local markets, visiting a museum, combing beaches, climbing a new summit or just rushing through airport corridors, travel keeps you moving. You can plan to use the hotel gym or walk to a neighborhood restaurant and experience the destination like you're a local. Either way, you are up, off the sofa and burning extra calories, so you can stop at the decadent bakery in the morning without guilt!

Pack smart by starting with lightweight, durable luggage with easy glide wheels. Optimize your travel wardrobe, accessories and toiletries to keep luggage to a minimum. Focus on comfortable clothes and shoes, that you can dress up or down, layer to adjust to cool weather or excessive air conditioning and remember you're not going to see most of these people again so keep it simple. Consider challenging yourself to fit your whole trip into your carryon luggage so you have a great story to tell before you even leave the house.

Make a list of all your essential documents, medications, vitamins and first aid needs. Be sure to have enough for your entire trip and keep all essentials handy in your carryon luggage.

Get comfortable with technology now so you can ease your experience when you're on the road later. Travel devices and apps can help with boarding passes, activity plans, directions, translations and tracking your bags and important items. Be sure to charge everything up before you leave the house and bring everything you need to stay connected for your entire trip.

You finally have the time and almost nothing to lose. With a little planning, patience and a good sense of humor, the world can become your playground. So start checking off that travel destination bucket list ... BFore Aging in Place.