CONSIDER ACCESSIBILITY McClelland encourages travelers with accessibility needs to do their research on destinations regarding elevation, whether a city has a lot of hills or cobblestones

and if a hotel has elevator access. “Over the years, we’ve seen lots of people pick a destination or program that’s beyond their physical limitations, which can make the trip not very

enjoyable for them and for those they’re traveling with,” she says. BRING A BUDGET AND FLEXIBILITY TO THE PLANNING TABLE Though inflation may be starting to cool, travel prices are still

higher than they were before the pandemic. The latest AARP travel survey found about half of respondents said they will spend more on travel this year. “The important thing is to pick a

might suggest Slovenia, a country with mesmerizing mountain scenery and outdoor recreation but without Switzerland’s price tag. Traveling outside the high season usually translates to lower

hotel prices, cheaper flights and fewer crowds. “If you’re open-minded and flexible, you could be pleasantly surprised,” O’Shaughnessy says. MANAGE THE MINUTIA Even when the tickets are

booked, important decisions trail in the wake, from buying travel insurance to researching vaccines to up-to-date passport and visa eligibility. In 2025, the new European Travel Information

and Authorization System (ETIAS) will require passport holders from more than 60 visa-exempt countries to apply for approval to enter 30 European countries. Having an adviser help corral the

small details while offering expert guidance on bigger choices can leave you more time for the fun stuff, such as shopping for the vacation wardrobe. “I’m a seasoned traveler, so I know the

ropes, but I like using a travel planner simply because that piece takes time,” Graves says. “I’d rather spend mine doing something else.”