There are extra RV camping tips for seniors to consider before exploring the country. Some medical conditions may require seniors to be more prepared than other RV campers and extra precautions should also be taken to ensure safety and comfortability.
1. Seniors should research RV campgrounds. The only way to ensure every camping stop on your itinerary has all the amenities you need is to find out before you arrive. On-line research is a great jumping of point, but it is best to call RV campgrounds before embarking on your trip. This tip is especially beneficial for discovering if rates are the same, as some websites are not updated with accurate information.
2. Seniors should be sure to take extra prescription medication. Medicine can be lost or left behind during camping trips or you may decide to stay out on the road longer. Keep at least a weeks backup of medication on hand, to be safe. Store it in a separate, but secure, location from other prescriptions.
3. Stock your RV with an extensive first-aid kit. You will want to be prepared for small medical situations, especially if will spend significant time camping or on the road. Items to stock up on include bandages, medical tape, antibiotic cream, antihistamines, pain reliever, anti-diarrheal, antacids, burn cream and eye wash. Also bring along a thermometer.
4. Seniors RV camping abroad won’t be able to rely on Medicare. In almost all situations, Medicare does not cover any medical needs of seniors traveling outside the United States. If you are taking your RV trip overseas, think about purchasing traveler’s medical insurance.
5. Consider purchasing a RV camper surge protector. A surge protector will safeguard your wiring, which is especially important if electricity is needed for medication. Any senior using medical machine that requires electricity, like a nebulizer, or medicine that needs cooling, like insulin, cannot afford to have their RV’s wires fried. This can easily happen in older campsites. There are different types of recreational vehicle surge protectors, so be careful to purchase one with the right amperage.
6. Senior RV campers should plan what to do with mail. An overflowing mailbox is a tip-off to burglarers that you are on an extended vacation. Criminals may be able to discern from your mail that you are senior citizens, which may make them consider your home a more vulnerable and profitable target. Have your mail forwarded, sent to a post office box or picked up by a friend.
7. RV campgrounds should be in seniors’ cell phone coverage areas. Check your cell phone providers coverage map before embarking on your trip. If your RV campground locations are not included, your phone will not work in those locations. Consider switching to a provider who does service the area or set up alternative methods of communication, such as a CB radio or on-line communication.
8. Golf carts will make it easier for seniors to get around large RV campgrounds. The ability to bring a golf cart on your vacation will keep you from being bound to the campsite on days you may feel a little to tired to walk. Check with the facility before driving around, as there are some sites that only allow electric ones or don’t allow any golf carts.
9. Sun protection is especially important for senior RV campers. This does not just include sunscreen, which you should apply before spending any time outdoors. If your RV does not have an awning, bring along some type of shade. Bring along a shade tent or standing umbrella large enough to place a table and chairs under. You don’t want to be RV bound, when you could be enjoying the outdoors.
10. Seniors RV camping should pack for all weather. Packing for one season or climate could find you too hot or cold, depending upon unpredictable weather fluctuations. Not having the appropriate clothing could lead seniors to be ill. One tip for packing for all weather situations is to bring layerable clothing. This way you can add or subtract clothing items without having to change your whole outfit.
Source:
New York Times: Q and A; Medicare Coverage Abroad, by Carl Sommers
