travel aid assistance

Our Annual conference is the not to be missed three days of the year for social service and airport program professionals. From coast-to coast attendees gather to expand their network, enhance their organizations knowledge and find solutions and resources they need. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned professional, TAI 2024 has educational and networking opportunities just for you!

Please mark your calendars for September 17-20 and join us at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Ontario, California.

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2024 HOST

WE ARE ONE TRAVELERS AID working together...

...to reunite families and distressed travelers

...to alleviate hunger

...to end human trafficking

... to provide shelter for families in transition

...to assist travelers

A Helping Hand Along the Way

Travelers Aid International is an international network of social service agencies, airports and train stations representing a safety net to individuals of all abilities to connect with a support system or place.

TAI is committed to uplifting the human experience, using the skills and talents of a diverse group of volunteers and staff. Our programs share a combined passion and desire to create a culture of caring and support. We succeed when a family living on the streets gets a roof over their head, when a young woman escapes from a sex trafficking ring, when a hungry child can stop wondering where his or her next meal will come from, or when a traveler unable to navigate the airport alone receives a friendly guide. This ongoing challenge to seek a better life for those in need continues to motivate us — and we will always strive to be “A Helping Hand Along the Way.”

TAI 2023 Soars in Philadelphia!

Beginning with sweeping sunset views from the Pyramid Club at the opening reception both new and current members and staff connected and enjoyed some friendly icebreaker competitions and Philly-inspired appetizers!

Over the next two days, attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and delved into sessions and panels led by experts in volunteer management, grant writing, social enterprise, aviation, food insecurity, harm prevention, solutions to end generational poverty, homelessness, optimizing online presence for non-profits, human trafficking, guided tours and more!

Our Mission and Vision

The Travelers Aid International mission is to aid people in transit who are in distress, through our direct services and through services provided by our member organizations.

Our History

Beginning in the 1880s, spurred in part by organizations like the YWCA, Travelers Aid programs were formed in major U.S. cities specifically to provide protection for women and girls traveling alone.

Peruse past issues of our Journeys newsletter, get up-to-date member and volunteer news, and stayed tuned for details of our 2023 Annual Conference, coming up September 27-29 in Philadelphia, and learn about additional TAI updates.

Travelers Aid in the News…

Travelers Aid Highlighted in Bloomberg

Travelers Aid Gets ‘Helping Hand’ Shout-out

Travelers Aid Airport Programs Director Shares Passion for Volunteer Programs

Beginning in the 1880s, spurred in part by organizations like the YWCA, Travelers Aid programs were formed in major U.S. cities specifically to provide protection for women and girls who traveled alone.

Peruse the most recent issues of our Journeys newsletter, get up-to-date member and volunteer news, see details as soon as they become available about our 2021 annual conference, set for May 12-14 at the TWA Hotel at New York’s JFK Airport, and learn about any COVID-19 updates.

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Update May 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

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What the Department of State Can and Can't Do in a Crisis

Lost or Stolen Passports Abroad

Help for U.S. Citizen Victims of Crime

U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad

Ways to Locate your Loved One in a Crisis Abroad

Arrest or Detention of a U.S. Citizen Abroad

Crimes Against Minors Abroad

Emergency Financial Assistance for U.S. Citizens Abroad

Protecting Yourself from Scams

International Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery at Sea

Forced Marriage

Information for U.S. Citizens about a U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuation

Crisis and Disasters Abroad

What financial help can I get abroad?

• Contacting Home:  If you need financial assistance while abroad, start first by asking family, friends, or your employer if they can help . The American Citizen Services team at the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate  can help you reach them, if necessary.
• Lost Credit Cards:  Report lost or stolen cards to your credit card company. Ask them to send a replacement card via express delivery, if available. Your credit card company may also be able to verify your account to your hotel, airline, doctor, or hospital. This may mean you can check out of your hotel and get new airline tickets or other emergency services. If you need a replacement credit card, you may need to present proof of identity such as a passport in order to get it. Ask about the benefits your credit card company provides you overseas before you travel abroad. This includes raising credit limits in case of emergency.
• Wiring Money Directly:  Your loved ones of employer can use a commercial money transfer service, such as  Western Union  or  MoneyGram , to wire money overseas. You will need to present proof of identity such as a passport to collect the money. See our information about  replacement of lost or stolen U.S. passports abroad . Also, be wary of  International Financial Scams !
• Banks:  Your loved ones or employer may also be able to deposit funds into your existing bank account. This allows you to use an ATM card to access funds quickly.
• You can call the nearest embassy or consulate or the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Overseas Citizens Services at (888) 407-4747. From abroad, call +1 202-501-4444. We may be able to help U.S. citizens abroad who need money, through two options:
• Sending Money through the U.S. Department of State:  Family or friends may send funds via the U.S. Department of State to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. See  Sending Money Overseas to a U.S. Citizen . The U.S. Department of State charges a $30.00 fee to create an account and transfer funds. If the account is open for more than a year, they charge the fee each year.
• Repatriation Loans: In some cases, the U.S. government may be able to issue a loan to a destitute U.S. citizen seeking to return to the United States. This loan may cover transportation expenses, short-term food, lodging, and fees. It also covers medical expenses, if needed, to stabilize the U.S. citizen for return to the United States. Your passport will be limited at the time the loan is issued and you will not be eligible for a new full-validity passport until you repay the loan. These loans are very case-specific. The Embassy or Consulate can explain their requirements and limits when you apply.

What help is available for U.S. citizens with medical emergencies abroad?

Consult the nearest U.S.  embassy or consulate’s website  for a list of hospitals and doctors. Your hotel concierge may also be a good resource. The availability and quality of medical services can vary greatly. Read the Health Information section in our  country information  pages.

Eligible U.S. citizens who are not returning to the United States may get an EMDA II loan. They can use it for emergency medical, dietary, and other aid. Your U.S. passport will be limited when the loan is issued. You will not get a new passport until the loan is fully paid. These loans are very case-specific. The Embassy or Consulate can explain their requirements or limits when you apply for the loan.

Destitute U.S. citizens in need of help overseas should contact the nearest  U.S. embassy or consulate . Or they can contact the U.S. Department of State, Office of Overseas Citizens Services, at (888) 407-4747 (or from overseas +1 202-501-4444). They can get more information about other options and eligibility requirements.

The information above is provided for general information only and may not be applicable in a particular case. You should ask private legal counsel about interpreting specific U.S. or foreign laws.

This site is managed by the U.S. Department of State. External links to other Internet sites and listings of private entities on this page are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as the U.S. Department of State or U.S. government endorsement of the entity, its views, the products or services it provides, or the accuracy of information contained therein. The order in which links appear has no significance, and the listings or links may be removed at any time at the discretion of the Department.

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If your passport has been lost or stolen while you are abroad, you will have to replace the passport before returning to the United States. Learn more , and contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance.

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Special assistance

Accessible travel.

We're dedicated to providing a positive travel experience for all customers. You can request special assistance when making or managing your reservation online or call us if you have special requests. A coordinator will contact you before your trip to make sure everything’s ready.

Request special assistance online

When you book or manage your trip online, choose 'Add special assistance' on the passenger details page. There you can:

• Request wheelchair service
• State if you're traveling with your own mobility device
• Request individual assistance if you have a hearing, vision, cognitive or developmental disability
• State if you’re traveling with a service animal. Keep in mind, notice and approval is required at least 48 hours before your flight.
• Book a trip
• Find your trip
• Service animals

Send your request online

Submit a special assistance request

Call Special Assistance

To make accessibility arrangements, call us for help.

Contact Special Assistance

Wheelchair assistance at the airport

Wheelchair service is available if you need it:

• To and from your gate
• Between gates for connecting flights
• To baggage claim

We recommend that you request wheelchair assistance in advance, by selecting 'Add special assistance' when booking or managing your trip online.

You can also let a team member at the airport know on the day of travel that you need wheelchair assistance.

Request special assistance

Hearing assistance

Let a gate agent or flight attendant know if you need help hearing important flight updates. Also, open captioning for safety videos is available.

If you don’t need assistance at the airport, we still ask that you let us know if you’re deaf or hard of hearing so that we can make sure you receive an in-flight safety briefing and any important flight updates.

Vision assistance

If you need help checking in or getting to your gate, please tell a ticket counter agent. You can also request a courtesy wheelchair, arm assistance or directions when you book or at the airport. Also, braille safety cards are available on board your flight.

If you don’t need assistance at the airport, we still ask that you let us know if you’re blind or have low vision so that we can make sure you receive an in-flight safety briefing and any important flight updates.

Cognitive and developmental assistance

We can help customers with cognitive and developmental disabilities get on and off the plane and get to a connecting flight.

When deciding whether your loved one should travel alone, consider:

• Will they need continuous care or help with personal care?
• Are they able to understand and respond to the safety briefing and any instructions from the flight crew?
• If their flight is canceled or delayed, will they be able to spend a night in the airport or a hotel unsupervised?

Customers who need personal or continuous care or who are unable to follow safety instructions must travel with a safety assistant.

Special seating

We’ll do our best to secure the most comfortable and usable seats based on your needs. Please choose seats when you book or call Reservations for help booking the best seat for your needs, especially if you:

• Plan to travel with a safety assistant or someone to help you during the flight
• Can’t move over a fixed armrest
• Are traveling with a service animal
• Have a fixed or immobilized leg
• Need extra space

Customers who need special assistance can ask to board early at the gate.

Extra space during travel

If a customer needs extra space outside a single seat to travel safely, another seat is required. We encourage customers to address all seating needs when booking.

• When you call to book, Reservations will make sure you get 2 adjacent seats at the same rate.
• If you didn’t book an extra seat in advance, ask an airport agent to find out if 2 adjacent seats are available.
• You may be offered a seat in a higher class of service that may provide more space; in this case, you’ll be responsible for the fare difference.
• If accommodations can’t be made on your original flight, you can buy seats on a different flight at the same price as your original seats.

Information for senior travelers

Here are some tips to make your trip easier:

• Early boarding is available if you need more time or assistance boarding. You must identify yourself to the gate agent to request early boarding.
• Wheelchair assistance is available to help with long distances at the airport.
• If you have vision or hearing limitations, let a team member know in the airport or on the plane so that we can make sure you receive inflight safety instructions.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) site has more information on airport assistance.

TSA passenger support information Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a law that makes it illegal for airlines to discriminate against passengers because of their disability. The Department of Transportation is responsible for enforcing the ACAA, which applies to all flights to, from, or within the United States.

To get a copy of the ACAA regulations (Part 382), you can:

• Call the hotline for air travelers with disabilities at 800-778-4838 or 800-455-9880 (TTY)
• Call the Aviation Consumer Protection Division at 202-366-2220 or 202-366-0511 (TTY)
• Write to the: Office of Aviation Consumer Protection 1200 New Jersey Ave, SE Washington, DC 20590 United States
• Visit the Aviation Consumer Protection Division website

Aviation Consumer Protection Division Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

• Video with audio description Opens a video on another site in a new window that may not meet accessibilty guidelines.
• Video without audio description Opens a video on another site in a new window that may not meet accessibilty guidelines.

Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights

This Bill of Rights describes the fundamental rights of air travelers with disabilities under the Air Carrier Access Act and its implementing regulation, 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 382.

Read the Bill of Rights Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

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• Traveling during pregnancy
• Special meals and nut allergies

Travelers Aid Emergency Assistance Agency

BIG DAY OF GIVING

MAY 2, 2024

Please use this link below to donate:

Search | GivingEdge (bigdayofgiving.org)

TAEAA has been serving the Sacramento community since 1896. In 1978, under the direction of Mrs. Elnor F Tillson, the agency changed from its traditional focus of Travelers Aid services to providing services for area individuals and families in crisis. Under the continued leadership of Wanda F Williams, our sole purpose is to assist low and moderate-income earners and working poor individuals and families, with 24-hour crisis intervention. TAEAA, seeks to fill the gap in services to those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Mission Statement

Travelers Aid Emergency Assistance Agency's mission is to provide human services throughout the greater Sacramento Area to individuals and families, especially to those where minor dependent children and other protected populations are at risk. Our definitive goal is to stabilize individuals and/or the family unit, and return them back into the mainstream of a self-sufficient, healthy and productive environment.

Board Member

Bertha King

Kendra lewis, velma sykes, wanda f williams.

Executive Director

Programs Offered

Rental assistance.

For the prevention of eviction and homelessness.

“This year marks our 125th anniversary! One hundred-twenty five years of dedication and commitment to service. Our staff and board members significantly contributed to the rich history of Travelers Aid- Emergency Assistance Agency (Travelers Aid Society). As we look to the future, we demand from all a greater commitment to service. In addition, we must work harder at fundraising to meet the increased needs of our agency. We must reach out beyond our borders and embrace many needed resources. We wish to express the entire staffs' sincere thanks to all that have made our agency a success. However, we must not accept this success as the end, but really the beginning. This beginning must reflect the changes in our community. The dreams and needs of the people we serve must be heard and understood. We look forward to the future with great expectations”

-Wanda F. Williams

Get involved.

Be the Change

Make a Donation

Show Your Support

Want to join our efforts but not sure where to start? Make a Donation and take advantage of this incredible opportunity to lend your support. It’s a great way to contribute to our cause, and every little bit counts towards paving the path for a better tomorrow.

Make your contribution to Travelers Aid Emergency Assistance Agency today.

Contact Travelers Aid Emergency Assistance Agency

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Customer Service and travel assistance

Customer Service

FlyChicago Customer Experience Survey  Phone: O'Hare Intl.: (800) 832-6352  Email: [email protected]   Address: Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA)  Customer Service  P.O. Box 66142 Chicago, IL 60666​

Volunteers stand ready to assist passengers throughout O'Hare International Airport. This assistance includes: staffing information desks, welcoming military service members, and helping confused and vulnerable travelers.

Travelers Aid

Travelers Aid Chicago is a social service agency inside O'Hare that provides information, crisis intervention, emergency provisions and support to passengers during travel. Travelers can contact the staff by phone or email for information about air travel at O'Hare. Information desks inside O'Hare are staffed with Travelers Aid volunteers who provide information to passengers. 

Travelers Aid Chicago includes:

- Services for passengers with cognitive or developmental disabilities, mental health needs, physical disabilities, illnesses, trauma anxiety  - Refugees, fugitives, repatriation cases and more.

Travelers Aid Chicago also assist with crisis intervention including, but not limited to: displaced passengers, lost passports and/or identification, emergency supplies such as clothing, diapers, etc.

Main Office Location:  Terminal 2, Post-security next to the ORD Family Lounge  Office Hours : Monday-Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm |   Saturday-Sunday 1​0am - 9:00pm

Info Desk Location: Terminal 1 | Gate B6, Terminal 1 | Gate C18, Terminal 2 | Gate F4, Terminal 3 | Gate K2, Terminal 5 | inside Security at Gate M15, Outside Security at Upper-Level Lobby, and in the Lower Level Lobby.  Info Desk Hours:  Monday-Friday 8:00am - 8:00pm / Saturday-Sunday 10am-9:00pm​

For further information, contact Travelers Aid Chicago at (773) 894-2427 or by email at [email protected]

Lost and Found

If you have forgotten an item near the ticket counters, gate areas. inside the aircraft or didn't get you checked baggage or is damaged, please contact your airline . On the other hand, if you have lost an item within the airport grounds, contact one of this areas:

• TSA Checkpoints / Security Lines:   www.tsa.gov/form/lost-and-found ​
• On the Airport Transit System (ATS):  contact O'Hare ATS at (773) 601-1817
• Parking facilities:  contact Standard Parking at (773) 686-7532 (Keys Only. All other items lost in parking lots are turned over to Chicago Police (773) 686-2385).
• Food service locations:  call (773) 377-7804
• Retail service locations : call (773) 894-3900.
• Terminal 5 Customs Area:  contact U.S. Customs at (773) 686-3157​
• Public areas of the terminal and the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF):  call Chicago Police at (773) 686-2385​​​​​​ or (773) 462-9515.

Medical Services

Passengers will find a First Aid Clinic in Terminal 2, at ticketing level. Service hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. On weekends and holidays, from 9:00am to 5:00pm. 

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How to get emergency assistance if you are in a foreign country

Find out what emergency help you can get from the U.S. Department of State if you are a U.S. citizen abroad.

If you are a U.S. citizen who needs assistance outside the U.S., find and contact the nearest U.S. embassy for help with:

• Foreign crises and natural disasters
• Lost or stolen passports
• Medical emergencies
• Crime or arrest
• Missing persons
• Parental child abductions
• Death abroad
• Call 1-888-407-4747 if you are concerned about a family member outside the U.S.

Read answers to frequently asked questions about how the Department of State can and cannot help U.S. citizens in a foreign crisis.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

Your Elderly Travel Assistance Questions—Answered

Do you have questions about elderly travel assistance? This post has the answers.

Published on September 26th, 2023 in Travel Assistance

Many things in life become more difficult as you get older, and travel is no exception.

If you or a loved one still has the desire (or need) to travel but are struggling with the logistics, you may want to look into elderly travel assistance.

In this post we aim to answer any and all questions you may have about how to engage travel assistance. We’ll cover some general travel assistance topics, but also dive into the specific solutions and options you have for getting help while you travel.

Let’s begin.

What is elderly travel assistance?

Elderly travel assistance refers to various services and support provided to senior citizens or elderly individuals when they travel. The purpose is to ensure their safety, comfort, and convenience during their journeys, considering their specific needs and potential limitations associated with age.

As you’ll see in the next section, this type of assistance can be planned in advance, or activated in response to a medical emergency .

What are examples of elderly travel assistance?

The scope of elderly travel assistance varies by situation, but some common examples include:

Specialized transportation

This is the act of providing transportation options that are accessible and accommodating for elderly individuals. It may include wheelchair-accessible vehicles, shuttle services to and from airports or train stations, or special arrangements for those with mobility issues.

Accommodation assistance

Travel companies or services may provide help with finding and booking accommodations that are suitable for elderly individuals, such as rooms with grab bars, easy access showers, or ground-floor rooms.

• Medical support

Some travel assistance programs may offer access to medical professionals or emergency medical transportation services if hospitalized during the trip. This is one of the more commonly engaged services of Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) .

Travel companionship

For elderly individuals who may feel more comfortable traveling with someone else, some programs might arrange for a travel companion to accompany them during their journey if traveling solo.

Priority services

In certain situations, elderly travelers may be given priority when it comes to boarding, security checks, or other aspects of the travel process to reduce stress and waiting times.

Information and guidance

Providing elderly travelers with essential information about their journey, such as gate changes, flight delays, or other important updates, can help them stay informed and confident during their travels.

How to tell if you or a loved one needs travel assistance?

This is a deeply personal question. Some elderly people may actively seek help when they travel, but we all know friends and family who sometimes object to any type of special treatment.

That said, anybody with any of the following characteristics may be a good fit for travel assistance:

• Mobility limitations : Difficulty walking long distances, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of vehicles.
• Pre-existing medical conditions : This could include chronic illnesses, mobility-related issues, or conditions that may require access to medical facilities during a journey.
• Cognitive impairments : For individuals with cognitive impairments, having a travel companion or dedicated travel assistant can be helpful.
• Advanced age : Elderly individuals, in particular, may benefit from travel assistance due to age-related limitations.
• Previous travel difficulties : If the person has encountered challenges during previous travels, such as missed connections or struggling with luggage.
• Fear of traveling : Some individuals may experience anxiety or fear while traveling, which can be mitigated with the support and guidance of travel assistance services.
• Special needs : Individuals with special needs, such as those requiring dietary accommodations or accessible accommodations.
• Long-distance travel : For long-haul or international flights.
• Traveling alone : If the person is traveling alone and might feel more secure or comfortable with assistance.

If you’re not sure or are on the cusp of needing travel assistance, you may want to consider a proactive approach by purchasing travel assistance from EA+.

Do airlines provide elderly travel assistance?

Yes, many commercial airlines offer elderly travel assistance to support and cater to the needs of senior citizens or elderly passengers. Airlines recognize that elderly travelers may require special attention and accommodations during their journeys, and they aim to make the travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

These services, typically free of charge, can include:

• Priority boarding
• Wheelchair assistance
• Special seating arrangements
• Assistance with luggage
• In-flight assistance

You will want to contact the individual airline in advance to inquire about any of these services.

How do you buy elderly travel assistance?

There are many companies that provide travel assistance for seniors, younger adults, and families. They each have their own scope of services, advantages, and costs.

If you’re looking for medical support services while you (or a loved one) travels, here are a few reputable companies that you may want to research:

• Emergency Assistance Plus
• Medjet Assist
• Air Rescue Card
• Good Sam Travel Assist

Note : These companies focus on medical support services for their members.

Additionally, you might want to check out this related post: How to Find Medical Travel Assistance

When comparing services, you’ll want to note any restrictions that may affect your ability to activate services. In terms of restrictions, EA+ has:

• No age restrictions
• No pre-existing condition exclusions or medical exams for any age
• No limit on trip duration
• No limit on annual trip volume
• No limit on distance from home to activate services, except for Washington residents who must be 100 miles from home.

How much does elderly travel assistance cost?

The price and cost structure of travel assistance varies by the company you choose, therefore you’ll have to do your own research to find specific costs.

EA+ offers two annual membership options, each with a flat-rate with all services included:

• EA+ Essential : $209
• EA+ Premier : $279

The rates above are for an individual membership, and this is where EA+ differs from many competitors from a cost perspective—with EA+ it’s only $60 more to protect your spouse or dependents with a family plan.

You can learn more about travel assistance plans and costs on our membership page .

How can you get elderly travel assistance in foreign countries?

For seniors traveling abroad, having access to travel assistance can be the difference between an inconvenience and a disaster.

It’s important to note that in order to access travel assistance while abroad (and also domestically), you typically need to be enrolled in a plan prior to traveling.

Activating travel assistance services is as easy as dialing a phone number (or signing up online). As an EA+ member, once you contact EA+ for assistance, our experienced team will ensure you and your loved ones are properly cared for when a medical emergency arises while away from home.

How does elderly travel assistance work?

Many travel assistance companies, including EA+, use an annual membership model. Once you pay your annual fee and become a member, you’re entitled to the services you’ve agreed to for that year.

Note : Be sure to check your membership for restrictions on things like trip duration, distance traveled, age and medical conditions, etc.

Once you’re an active EA+ member, obtaining travel assistance is incredibly simple. The graphic below explains the process and you can learn more on our website .

If you’re planning a trip and think you may require this service, please feel free to reach out to the team at EA+ with any questions or concerns. For more information on services and costs, please feel free to check out our website or call us at: 1-866-863-4460 .

Safe Travels Start Here

Should a medical emergency derail your travel, Emergency Assistance Plus® (EA+®) has you protected no matter where you are.

Related resources

Expanded Evacuation

EA+ Explained

Our evacuation experts work with local governments and security analysts to find the best way to evacuate you from dangerous situations.

Extended Family

Extend critical EA+ privileges to additional family members traveling with you with Emergency Assistance Plus Extended Family add on

Life-Changing Travel Assistance

If a medical emergency occurs while you’re traveling—either domestically or abroad—you want to know that you and your loved ones are well-protected. Emergency Assistance Plus not only offers that protection but the peace of mind to explore the world with confidence.

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Travelers Aid San Diego

Getting help.

• Reservations

April 18, 2009: Travelers Aid Springtime Soiree

September 2, 2008: “Travelers Aid Day”

A Travelers Aid Volunteer Hard at Work

A Night in White 2005

A Travelers Aid Volunteer Helps a Visitor at the Airport

A Night in White 2010

PAST EVENTS

Sail into Summer 2019

Sip of Summer 2018

An Evening with Gatsby 2017

A Night in White & A Day on the Greens 2016

Centennial Golf Classic 2015

A Night in White 2014

A Night in White 2013

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If you are stranded, fleeing an abusive situation, or without any resources, Travelers Aid may be able to help. In an emergency, it’s always best to call 911. Please note: we are only able to provide transportation assistance to those who are physically in San Diego, and clients may be asked to contribute towards the price of their tickets.    

If you need to visit our case manager’s office, the address is:

St. Vincent de Paul Village 1501 Imperial Avenue San Diego, CA 92101

Travelers Aid complies with all aspects of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act in all of its programs (see below).  It is the policy of Travelers Aid to guarantee that all clients receive equal benefits of programs and services provided regardless of race, color, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, physical handicap, religion or medical condition.  Travelers Aid also follows all Equal Employment Opportunity laws with regard to discrimination based on the above criteria.

Material support for some Travelers Aid programs is provided by:

Downtown San Diego Lion’s Club & Lion’s Welfare Foundation

SenioRide is supported by SANDAG as part of the TransNet Senior Mini-Grant program.

Notification of Title VI

Travelers Aid Society of San Diego operates all of its programs without regard to gender, disability, race, color, sexual orientation, and national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and other applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination on publicly funded projects.  Any person who believes they have been aggrieved by any unlawful discriminatory practice may file a complaint with Travelers Aid.

• Public Rights Under Title VI: English /  Spanish
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• Title VI Complaint Form: English / Spanish

For languages other than English and Spanish, Travelers Aid will make accommodations in the form of telephonic translation and/or translation software. If information is needed in another language, contact (619) 295-8393.

For persons who are hearing impaired, please use the free California Relay Services (711).

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Top Tips for Senior Travel: Planning Ahead, Packing Wisely, & Services to Help

Posted: May 12, 2024 | Last updated: May 12, 2024

Travel hacks for seniors

Travel always comes with its fair share of obstacles, but traveling poses unique challenges for elderly loved ones. To help ensure a safe trip for a senior loved one, you can help them gather documents, prepare for TSA, book a safe place to stay, and pack wisely. You can also account for their health conditions or disabilities, so your elderly loved one can focus on the fun and have a smooth trip.

1. Gather important documents

When traveling with an elderly loved one, it’s crucial to prepare as much as you can. It can be helpful for your senior loved one if you can gather some essential documentation before their next adventure:

• Valid form of identification . This could include a driver’s license, state-issued personal ID card, passport, or another government-issued document.
• Important medical information . Ask your senior loved one’s doctor for a note outlining their health conditions, current medications, regularly used medical equipment, and doctor’s contact information. This could come in handy during an emergency.
• Travel health insurance card . For seniors planning to travel abroad, remember Medicare and several private insurance companies don’t provide health insurance coverage outside the U.S. Investing in travel health insurance may be wise for emergency situations.

2. Plan with time in mind

Try to estimate how much time each step will take to make it to your flight on time by considering the following:

• How far is the airport from your home?
• How far is the walk from your drop-off point to the terminal?
• How much medical and mobility equipment is there to carry?
• Will you be close to a restroom?
• Do you need to dedicate some time to using the restroom?

Reviewing the map of your airport can help you tremendously. When you plan for frequent stops, handle any mobility or medical equipment, and adjust to new surroundings, you can help reduce some of the unique stress that comes with air travel for seniors.

3. Account for accessibility needs

If your loved one has a disability that requires special equipment or assistance when traveling, you’ll want to make sure you consider everything that comes with it.

Learn about airline accessibility policies and notify the airline of any special equipment

If you or a senior loved one intends to travel with any special equipment or mobility devices, the call with the booking agent is the ideal time to discuss the necessities of your senior traveler. The booking agent can answer questions regarding the airline’s approved in-flight usage devices, accessibility to these devices while onboard, and more.

You can also call the airline’s customer service line instead. Doing so allows you to discuss your loved one’s equipment needs and to learn more about what forms of assistance the airline offers, and what accommodations are available.

Air travel assistance for seniors

Many airlines employ gate agents to arrange transportation assistance between connecting gates. This service is available to anyone in need, but is especially helpful for unaccompanied elders. Each airline is required to provide this assistance promptly and is never allowed to leave a passenger in a wheelchair unattended for more than 30 minutes. Airlines must also make pre-boarding available to passengers who need extra time to board. If you wish to take advantage of this, be sure to advise the gate agent in advance.

On the plane, flight attendants assist with storing and retrieving items in overhead bins, including carry-on luggage and medical assistive devices, and help with opening any snacks, meals, or beverages. In-flight assistance does not include assistance with eating, personal hygiene, or the use of medical equipment. Passengers who require help with any of the above should travel with a ticketed passenger who can help them.

4. Be prepared for pre-flight screenings

As part of the TSA’s security and safety measures, all travelers must undergo pre-flight screenings. The TSA has established a special set of procedures for screening people with disabilities and their mobility aids, devices, and other medically necessary supplies. When planning how to approach TSA for seniors, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Call TSA Cares hotline

Calling the  TSA Cares hotline  with any questions regarding screening policies, procedures, and what to expect at the security checkpoint is an excellent way to ensure you’re up to speed with any new TSA rules for elderly travelers. If you need assistance getting your loved one through TSA, you can request a passenger support specialist at that time. All that they ask is that you call 72 hours before traveling.

Security screening for seniors with disabilities or medical conditions

For travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or who are 75 or older, some of the screening procedures may look different. [01] For instance, travelers with medical devices that are unsafe to go through the metal detectors will need to alert the TSA agent assisting them. The agent will then utilize alternative methods, such as hand-wanded scanning, to screen appropriately.

TSA officers have to screen mobility devices like canes, walkers, and wheelchairs. It is important to let the agents know if your loved one is unable to stand or walk on their own so they can screen them appropriately. If a pat-down screening is needed, they have the option to request that it be done in a private area.

Senior travelers who are 75 or older are eligible for some forms of expedited screening. [02] Jackets and shoes can remain on during the screening process, but if the alarm sounds, shoes may need to be removed. If additional screening methods are necessary for travelers 75 and older and they are unable to remain standing, the option to request a seat during this portion of the screening is available to them.

Print out a TSA notification card

When communicating the need for an alternative screening procedure to your TSA agent, having a  TSA notification card  can be helpful. This card does not exempt you from security screenings, but it is a free resource if you wish to print one off to accompany any other medical documentation used to describe your travel companion’s conditions.

Lastly, you’ll want to be conscious of how you pack your medications and other medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on. The TSA requests that you inform the TSA officer that you have medically necessary goods prior to your screening so they can proceed accordingly. If you’re flying with TSA Precheck, some additional exemptions apply. Learn more about the  TSA’s special procedures  when screening medications, medically necessary equipment, and 3-1-1 liquid exemptions so you can pack them appropriately.

5. Book an accessible place to stay

Whether you’re booking an Airbnb or a room at a hotel, there are a few accessibility-related features you’ll want to look for. Ask the following questions to help ensure the accommodations meet your senior’s travel needs:

• Are there parking spots available that are close to the entrance? Do they need to be reserved?
• Is the room close to an elevator? Is there one available during the time you wish to book?
• Is the bathroom spacious enough for a person who uses a wheelchair?
• What height is the bed? Is this the appropriate height for transfers?
• Does the space have any rooms with roll-in showers available? What about grab bars?
• Is there step-free access to the bathroom, bedroom, and common areas?

6. Plan a safe and enjoyable itinerary

Travel safety tips for seniors are essential, but it’s also important to help your loved one relax and enjoy their vacation. To help them thoroughly enjoy their trip, use these tips:

• Create a balanced schedule. Sightseeing can get tiring if it involves a lot of walking, so be sure to plan activities that allow them to rest in between.
• Ask about senior discounts. Some places like airlines, museums, and restaurants, offer discount rates for seniors. Discounts can save seniors money and help them splurge on the most important activities.
• Find accessible transportation options. If your senior loved one doesn’t drive, see what public transportation services are available to help them travel safely.

7. Pack wisely

When traveling with seniors, strategically packing personal items and carry-on baggage can not only help set a positive tone for your travels, but is a vital step in assuring they have the medications and devices necessary to stay healthy on your adventure ahead.

The general rule of thumb when packing personal items and carry-on baggage is to pack anything you’d need immediately if your checked baggage is lost. For elderly travelers, you’ll want to prioritize medications, important medical documents, personal care supplies, and a change of clothes.

It’s important to note that the limit of one carry-on item does not apply to medical supplies, equipment, mobility aids, and assistive devices. However, if some of your equipment is stored elsewhere on the plane and out of your reach, it’s a good idea to keep items that you might need after takeoff in the baggage that will be stored above you.

Depending on the length of your flight or the needs of your travel companion, some extra items you may consider packing are snacks that meet their dietary needs, a cover-up for when it gets chilly, neck pillows and sleeping masks for added comfort, and some form of entertainment, like a  senior-friendly tablet or playing cards.

8. Find a travel companion

If you’re worried about your senior loved one traveling alone, you can find a travel companion for your loved one using a  home care agency . If your senior is already receiving home care, ask them if a traveling caregiver can accompany them on their trip.

Travel companions can help ensure your senior loved one’s safety by helping with the following:

• Transportation to the airport
• Carrying and transporting luggage
• Airport check-in and ticketing
• Security screenings
• Custom forms
• Navigating ground transportation
• Companionship
• Personal care needs

9. Check in with elderly loved ones periodically

Whether you’re traveling with your elderly parents, or they’re traveling alone, be sure to check in with them periodically:

• Call once or twice a day, or knock on their door, to make sure everything is okay.
• Remind them to take their medications on time.
• Make sure they’re staying consistent with any stretching or exercises that are a part of their regular routine.
• Remind them to stay cautious of their belongings and avoid dangerous areas.

10. Take extra precautions for seniors with dementia

If you are traveling with a loved one who has dementia, you may also want to consider the following tips:

• If you can’t book a direct flight, try to avoid scheduling flights that require tight connections. You want to give your loved one time to adjust to their surroundings without the additional stress of a time crunch.
• Stress and overstimulation can often lead to  wandering . Developing  dementia-focused communication tactics  is key to de-escalating in situations where you recognize the early signs of anxiety and agitation.
• If you haven’t already used one before traveling, you may want to consider some form of  GPS tracking device for seniors .
• If your loved one tends to become tired or more agitated at a certain point in the day, avoid traveling at this time.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help when traveling with elderly loved ones. Navigating an airport requires a lot of attention to detail, and the level of activity can be overwhelming. You can have peace of mind knowing that when needed, airport, airline, and TSA staff are all trained to assist you along the way.

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The 9 most common regrets of the elderly & dying.

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Artificially Intelligent Help for Planning Your Summer Vacation

Travel-focused A.I. bots and more eco-friendly transportation options in online maps and search tools can help you quickly organize your seasonal getaway.

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By J. D. Biersdorfer

J.D. Biersdorfer has been using smartphone apps for travel since the summer of 2007.

The summer travel season starts in just a few weeks, but if you are looking for software that goes beyond simply booking flights and hotels, you’re in luck. Search engines enhanced by artificial intelligence can help with your research and outline full itineraries. Certain older apps have recently been updated to suggest more eco-friendly travel options. And keeping it all organized on your phone is easier than ever. Here’s an overview.

Using an A.I. Travel Agent

General-purpose A.I.-powered search tools and chatbots like Google’s Gemini spin up a list of things to do on your vacation when asked, but A.I. bots that are fine-tuned for travel queries are often more comprehensive. These bots scout destinations, plan itineraries, search for accommodations and flights, map out road trips and do more — grabbing a lot of information at once and saving you all that time-consuming web trawling.

Give the software your specifics — like destination, length of stay, interests — and see what it suggests. Many A.I. helpers are free to use if you sign up for an account, but some charge a subscription fee for premium services; your app store has specifics.

Layla , formerly Roam Around, is one of the free vacation-oriented A.I. helpers you can find online, and it has teamed up with travel sites that include Skyscanner , Get Your Guide and Booking.com . If you prefer land-based car and camper journeys, Roadtrippers (free trial; $60 year) includes real-time traffic and air-quality information along with route planning. And old stalwarts like Tripadvisor and Expedia are now using A.I.-generated vacation builders.

But as others have also noted, while A.I. travel planners have much potential, many are still works in progress and usually display disclaimers admitting so.

A.I. bots have been known to offer generic advice like “enjoy lunch at a local restaurant,” suggest activities that are out of season or too far apart, repeatedly recommend the same restaurant, consistently steer you to their advertisers or point you to locations that have closed. If you ask different bots the same question, you may get nearly identical suggestions, all scraped from the same tourism websites.

Still, A.I. travel apps are improving as they learn, and can be useful for the trip research and coordination phase. Just be sure to double-check the bot’s work before you commit to a plan.

Finding Earth-Friendly Options

There’s no shortage of apps for booking transportation to your destination. But if you want to keep the environment in mind, recent updates to Google’s Maps and Search apps now suggest routes and methods that lower your personal impact on the planet.

Google for the past few years has been pointing people to flights with lower carbon emissions , alternative train routes , fuel-efficient driving directions and eco-friendly hotels . It is now expanding its walking, biking and public transit suggestions alongside car routes in several major cities and adding more electric-vehicle charging information. Google Flights shows jet emissions estimates . Google Search has a “consider taking the train” nudge with rail routes and prices under certain flight results.

Apple’s Maps app also shows mass transit , walking and cycling options for getting around town, along with charge-friendly routes for electric vehicles . However, the default apps on your phone are not the only aids. Third-party software for directions and sustainable travel abound.

For example, Citymapper, which covers most major cities in the United States, Europe and Asia, includes environmental impact statistics on some trips. Its directions often include accessibility options that avoid stairways , along with routes for the fastest, cheapest or easiest way to get where you’re going; Citymapper is free with in-app purchases.

Other apps available for those seeking environmentally minded vacations include Bikemap for community-sourced cycling routes around the world, HappyCow for vegan and vegetarian travelers and Tap Hydration and Water Stations to locate sources for refilling reusable water bottles.

Keeping Organized

If you don’t already have software for consolidating your trip information, your phone’s default apps can help. Electronic boarding passes, hotel reservations and advance tickets can be quickly added to the digital wallet on your phone; a pragmatic paper backup tucked in your bag is insurance. Google and Apple offer to automatically add reservations and events from email and messages to your calendar .

Free services like TripIt (and its phone apps ), TripCase (also with Android or iOS apps) and Wanderlog automatically put all your travel information in one place, typically by scanning the information in your confirmation emails. TripIt Pro , a $50-a-year subscription version, adds more features like seat, fare and airline-points trackers, as well as international travel tools and regional risk alerts like those for extreme weather that can affect airline schedules and public safety .

A.I. bots and travel apps will continue to evolve and, hopefully, make vacation planning even easier in the future. Just don’t forget to occasionally put the phone down and enjoy your time off once you get there.

J.D. Biersdorfer has been writing about consumer technology for The Times since 1998. She also creates the weekly interactive literary quiz for the Book Review and occasionally contributes reviews. More about J. D. Biersdorfer

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American and Chinese diplomats plan to meet in Geneva to begin what amounts to the first, tentative arms control talks  over the use of A.I.

Wayve, a London maker of A.I. systems for autonomous vehicles, said that it had raised $1 billion , an illustration of investor optimism about A.I.’s ability to reshape industries.

The Age of A.I.

A new category of apps promises to relieve parents of drudgery, with an assist from A.I.  But a family’s grunt work is more human, and valuable, than it seems.

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Much as ChatGPT generates poetry, a new A.I. system devises blueprints for microscopic mechanisms  that can edit your DNA.

Which A.I. system writes the best computer code or generates the most realistic image? Right now, there’s no easy way to answer those questions, our technology columnist writes .

More From Forbes

Is travel insurance refundable here’s everything you need to know.

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Sometimes, travel insurance is refundable. Here's when you can get your money back.

Peter Hoagland always checks to see if his travel insurance is refundable. That's because anything can happen between the time you book your vacation and when you leave — and because travel insurance isn't always refundable.

During the pandemic, he discovered that the hard way. He had to cancel a trip and asked for his money back from the insurance company. It refused.

"Since then, I always read the fine print on the policy," he says.

The refundability of travel insurance has always been an open question. Some countries and U.S. states regulate refundability. Travel insurance companies put refundability details in the fine print of the policy. And, as Hoagland found out, there are always exceptions.

Like the pandemic, when refund policies were all over the map. Some insurance companies adhered to their published policies. Others offered a credit that could be reused within a year, which was minimally useful because the pandemic was still happening a year later. Others quietly gave their customers a refund.

Hoagland says he fought for his money. Eventually, he contacted a manager at his travel insurance company.

"That produced a quick result," he says. "I got my money back."

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But let's face it: Getting a refund for travel insurance can be difficult. There are times when insurance is always refundable because it's required by law. There are times when it's sometimes refundable. And there are times when it's almost never refundable. But even then, there may be a way to recover some — or all — of the value of your policy.

Getting a refund for travel insurance can be a challenge

If you have a travel insurance policy and would like to get a refund, it might be easier said than done, say experts.

"While travel insurance is regulated like auto and home insurance, it’s often less standardized," says Stuart Winchester, CEO of Marble, a digital wallet for your insurance. "So first off, it’s important to check the fine print of your specific policy. Don’t assume it’s like the last one you got."

Even when you have something in writing, a refund can require some serious negotiating skills.

"Getting a refund for travel insurance can be complicated and frustrating," says Peter Hamdy, the managing director of a tour operator in Auckland, New Zealand. He's asked for a refund on policies numerous times and says that despite what travel insurance companies may tell you, there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to getting a refund on your policy.

"Some situations can warrant a refund," he says. "It depends on your policy."

What does a typical refundability clause look like? For example, the World Explorer Guardian from Insured Nomads notes that it's refundable only during the 10-day review period from the date of delivery or 15 days from the date of delivery if mailed, provided you have not already departed on your trip and you have not incurred any claimable losses during that time. If you depart on your trip before the expiration of the review period, the review period ends and the policy can't be refunded.

"We go a bit further with our World Explorer Travel Medical plans," notes Andrew Jernigan, CEO of Insured Nomads. "If no claims have been filed then we can refund the unused portion of the policy if you cut your trip short.”

When can you get a refund for travel insurance?

Here are the most common cases where travel insurance can be refunded:

• If you cancel during the "free look" period required by the government. Most states require what's called a "free look" period of anywhere from 10 to 14 days. "During this period, travelers can review the purchase and make sure it fits their needs," explains James Nuttall, general manager of Insubuy . "If it does not, they can cancel it for any reason and get a full refund, no questions asked, so long as you haven’t departed yet.
• If you cancel during the travel insurance company grace period. Many insurance companies also have a grace period for refunds (usually, they are the same as the "free look" although some grace periods can be longer). "If you’re outside your grace period, which typically lasts one to two weeks after signing, you’re contractually obliged to pay your premiums," says David Ciccarelli, CEO of the vacation rental site Lake . "Still, it doesn’t hurt to ask your company for a refund or alternative options if you’re outside your grace window. You might not get a yes, but it could lead to some cost savings or better solutions."
• When someone else cancels your trip. "For instance, if your cruise is canceled due to low river tide, you are not at fault and would typically receive a full refund or credit for a future sailing, thus eliminating the need for the travel insurance policy," explains Rhonda Abedsalam vice president of travel insurance for AXA Assistance US.
• If you die. Typically, the policy would be refunded to your next of kin. Generally, you can also ask for a refund if your travel companion dies before your trip.

Remember, it depends on where you buy your insurance

The refundability of your insurance can depend on where you purchased it. Commercial policies bought from a cruise or tour company are generally canceled and refunded if you cancel the trip far enough in advance of your departure date.

"The travel insurance cancellation provisions are generally tied to the cancellation provisions for the cruise or tour," explains Dan Skilken, president of TripInsurance.com . "After you have paid the last deposits on the cruise and are close enough to departure that they will not provide a refund on the cruise, they generally will also not provide a refund on the travel insurance. But if you cancel early enough to get all or most of your deposit back, you will also get your travel insurance premium refunded."

If you’ve purchased retail travel insurance from a third-party provider or comparison website, you can often get a refund if you can show receipts proving that you received a full refund of all trip deposits and have not had any cancellation penalties or taken any travel credits when you canceled your trip.

That's because retail travel insurance is sold for a specific traveler and for a specific trip. If you have proof of a complete refund and have not received travel credits, then you no longer have what's called an "insurable interest" in the trip. The insurance company must cancel and refund your premium in full, says Skilken.

Insider tip: If the insurance company refuses, just tell them you have proof that you no longer have an insurable interest in the trip. You have to have an insurable interest in a trip to own a travel insurance policy.

Your agent may be able to help you get a refund

You may also be able to lean on the agent who sold you the policy. For example, all policies on Squaremouth come with a money-back guarantee.

"The purpose of this benefit is to give travelers extra time to review their policy documentation to be sure it’s the best policy for their coverage needs," says spokeswoman Jenna Hummer. At Squaremouth, the money-back period typically lasts between 10 and 14 days, which is in line with the mandated "free look" period.

However, I have also seen agents negotiate with travel insurance companies for a more generous refund period in case of extenuating circumstances. There's no guarantee that you'll get it, but it's worth asking — and one reason to work with a third party.

Agents can also help you avoid this problem. Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency, notes that American Airlines Vacation Packages offers a predeparture protection insurance plan, which allows cancellation for any reason before the outbound departing flight time. Other restrictions apply, she adds.

"More flexibility will often cost you more," she says. "But having the flexibility is a great way to sleep well at night."

Can't get a refund? Look for other kinds of flexibility from your travel insurance company

Even if your travel insurance company says no to a refund, it doesn't necessarily mean you've lost the value of your policy.

"If a travel supplier changes or cancels your trip, you should be able to change your travel insurance policy to match the new dates of your trip or even cover a new trip, sometimes up to two years into the future," says Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA .

Pro tip: Be sure to change the dates of your travel insurance policy before the departure date of your current itinerary. You can do that online or by calling your agent. Once the policy's effective date has passed, making any changes or initiating a refund or credit becomes much more difficult.

Don't forget to do your due diligence

Bottom line: Travel insurance is refundable under certain circumstances. But knowing when can require research.

"It's important for consumers to carefully read their policy upon receipt to understand the specific terms offered by their insurance provider," says Robert Gallagher, president of the US Travel Insurance Association.

The more you know, the likelier you are to get the refund you want when your plans change.

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How the Wells Fargo Active Cash can help with summer travel costs

How to earn the wells fargo active cash welcome bonus, how to apply for the wells fargo active cash, what to do with your welcome bonus, alternatives to the wells fargo active cash, the bottom line, want extra money for summer travel this card has a fast pay out.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash isn't a travel rewards card, but it could still help boost your vacation budget.

Holly Johnson

Contributor

Holly Johnson is a credit card expert and writer who covers rewards and loyalty programs, budgeting, and all things personal finance. In addition to writing for publications like Bankrate, CreditCards.com, Forbes Advisor and Investopedia, Johnson owns Club Thrifty and is the co-author of "Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You'll Love."

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit cards. Previously, she covered personal finance topics as a writer and editor at The Penny Hoarder. She is passionate about helping people make the best money decisions for themselves and their families. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and has been a writer and editor for publications including the New York Post, Women's Running magazine and Soap Opera Digest. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her husband, daughter and a very needy dog.

Evan Zimmer

Staff Writer

Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

Key takeaways

• The Wells Fargo Active Cash has a welcome bonus that’s relatively easy to earn in a short period of time.
• An introductory APR period also allows you time to pay for summer travel purchases.
• Travel-specific credit cards may offer more benefits and perks for long-term credit use.

With this year’s summer travel season only months away, there’s not a lot of time left to save for your trips. Luckily, you can still increase your vacation fund by applying for the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card . It lets you earn a $200 cash rewards welcome bonus after you spend just $500 in purchases within three months of account opening.

So long as you can pay off your balance on time and in full every month, the Active Cash card is among the best credit cards to help you cover the last-minute costs of summer travel. Here’s what to consider before applying.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash is among easier-to-earn credit card welcome bonuses. A welcome bonus pays out extra rewards beyond what you earn with the card for normal spending once you reach a specified spending threshold set by the credit card issuer.

With its low $500 spending requirement in the first three months of account opening, you could likely earn that by putting a month of your grocery and gas spending on the card. Once you’ve met that requirement, you’ll have an extra $200 in cash rewards to put toward any upcoming trips. 

And the welcome bonus isn’t the only way the Active Cash card can help you save on summer travel. It’s also one of the best flat-rate rewards cards , letting you earn 2% cash rewards on purchases -- including your hotel, airfare, rental car or any other travel expense. Plus, there’s no annual fee.

New cardholders can also benefit from the card’s introductory APR offer for purchases and balance transfers, which is ideal for debt consolidation or paying down large purchases, like plane tickets.

The intro 0% APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers lasts for 15 months from account opening (then 20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable). If you’re making a big purchase, plan out your payment schedule ahead of time so you can avoid incurring interest charges when the intro APR period ends.

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Making a plan before you apply for a card can help ensure you earn the welcome bonus without falling into credit card debt:

• Plan your spending based on your budget . Knowing which purchases you can put on your card ahead of time can help you avoid overspending to reach the bonus. 
• Use your card for regular spending and bills . Charge all your regular expenses to your card to earn the bonus faster. Consider using plastic to pay for subscriptions and insurance premiums in addition to everyday expenses like groceries and gas. But watch out for credit card convenience fees that can add to your bill.
• Closely track your spending on the card . Missing the spending requirement by even $1 would cause you to miss out on the bonus offer.
• Wait for the bonus points to show up in your account . Most credit card welcome offers show up in your account after your next statement closing date. However, some bonuses can take six to eight weeks to show up in your account.

Before applying, it’s a smart idea to make sure the Wells Fargo Active Cash is a good fit for you. 

• Check for prequalification. Finding out if you prequalify can give you an idea of your approval chances without damaging your credit score.
• Calculate if you can earn the bonus with regular spending. To earn the bonus, you’ll need to spend $500 within three months of account opening. That works out to $167 in purchases every month for three consecutive months. Although it’s a relatively low threshold, avoid overspending to reach it.
• Make sure the card is a good fit for the long term. While the Active Cash’s welcome bonus may be attractive, you shouldn’t get a credit card simply for its welcome bonus. Applying for a credit card requires a hard inquiry that may temporarily hurt your score , so it’s important that you can get long-term value from the card’s other features, too. 
• Read the fine print. It helps to know exactly how much time you have to meet the spending requirement. Typically, the timeline to earn a bonus starts on the day you get approved for a card instead of the day it arrives in the mail. 
• Submit your application. If you think the card offers the right benefits for you, you can apply for the new credit card and wait for it to arrive in the mail. Some credit cards also offer virtual card numbers that let you use them before the physical credit card arrives at your home.

How to spend your welcome bonus is a personal decision. Because the Active Cash is a cash-rewards credit card, you can redeem rewards for statement credits, gift cards or cash redemption at an ATM (available in $20 increments when you use your Wells Fargo ATM or debit card). 

The Active Cash isn’t a travel card. While it earns rewards for your travel purchases, it’s missing a lot of things that come standard with travel cards, including point transfers and travel-centric perks and protections. 

If you want to earn travel-specific rewards like points or miles, the best travel credit cards typically offer additional perks and travel protections, although some charge an annual fee. However, unlike the Active Cash, many don’t charge foreign transaction fees , which could make them better options if you’re planning to travel internationally.

Some of the best credit cards with welcome bonuses offer larger payouts (and taller spending requirements) than what’s offered by the Active Cash.

Pursuing a credit card welcome bonus makes sense any time of the year, but it can be especially helpful when you have big expenses like summer travel plans coming up. 

Not only can upcoming expenses help you reach the bonus’s spending threshold, but you can also use rewards to cover part or all of your purchases in order to reduce your credit card bill.

Just remember to only charge purchases you can afford to pay off when the statement balance is due each month. If you wind up carrying debt in pursuit of a credit card welcome bonus, the interest charges you’re responsible for will likely wipe out the value of the bonus you earn.

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How travel 'bucket lists' help cancer patients handle life and death

In the 2007 film  The Bucket List  Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman play two main characters who respond to their terminal cancer diagnoses by rejecting experimental treatment. Instead, they go on a range of energetic, overseas escapades.

Since then, the term “bucket list” – a list of experiences or achievements to complete before you “kick the bucket” or die – has become common.

You can read articles listing the seven cities  you must visit before you die or  the 100  Australian bucket-list travel experiences.

But there is a more serious side to the idea behind bucket lists. One of the key forms of suffering at the end of life  is regret  for things left unsaid or undone. So bucket lists can serve as a form of insurance against this potential regret.

The bucket-list search for adventure, memories and meaning takes on a life of its own with a diagnosis of life-limiting illness.

In a  study  published this week, 54 people living with cancer, and 28 of their friends and family said a key bucket list item was travel.

Why is travel so important?

There are lots of reasons why travel plays such a central role in our ideas about a ‘life well-lived’. Travel is often linked to important  life transitions : the youthful gap year, the journey to self-discovery in the 2010 film  Eat Pray Love , or the popular figure of the ‘ grey nomad ’.

The significance of travel is not merely in the destination, nor even in the journey. For many people, planning the travel is just as important. A cancer diagnosis affects people’s sense of control over their future, throwing into question their ability to write their own life story or plan their travel dreams.

Mark, the recently retired husband of a woman with cancer, spoke about their stalled travel plans:

“We’re just in that part of our lives where we were going to jump in the caravan and do the big trip and all this sort of thing, and now [our plans are] on blocks in the shed.”

For others, a cancer diagnosis brought an urgent need to ‘tick things off’ their bucket list. Asha, a woman living with breast cancer, had always been driven to ‘get things done’ but the cancer diagnosis made this worse:

“So, I had to do all the travel, I had to empty my bucket list now, which has kind of driven my partner round the bend.”

People’s travel dreams ranged from whale watching in Queensland to seeing polar bears in the Arctic, and from driving a caravan across the Nullarbor Plain to skiing in Switzerland.

Whale watching in Queensland featured in some study participant's bucket lists.

Nadia, 38, said travelling with her family had made important memories and given her a sense of vitality, despite her health struggles. Being diagnosed with cancer had given her the chance to live her life at a younger age, rather than waiting for retirement:

“In the last three years, I think I’ve lived more than a lot of 80-year-olds.”

But travel is expensive

Of course, travel is expensive. It’s not by chance Nicholson’s character in The Bucket List is a billionaire.

Some people empty their savings, assuming they would no longer need to provide for aged care or retirement. Others had used insurance payouts or charity to make their bucket-list dreams come true.

“We’ve actually bought a new car and [had been] talking about getting a new caravan… But I’ve got to work. It’d be nice if there was a little money tree out the back but never mind,” said Jim, a 60-year-old whose wife had been diagnosed with cancer.

Not everyone’s bucket list items were expensive. Some chose to spend more time with loved ones, take up a new hobby or get a pet.

Our study showed making plans to tick items off a list can give people a sense of self-determination and hope for the future. It was a way of exerting control in the face of an illness that can leave people feeling powerless. 

“This disease is not going to control me. I am not going to sit still and do nothing. I want to go travel,” explained Asha.

Something we ‘ought’ to do?

Bucket lists are also a symptom of a broader culture that emphasises conspicuous  consumption  and  productivity , even into the end of life.

Indeed, people said travelling can be exhausting, expensive and stressful, especially when they’re also living with the symptoms and side effects of treatment. Nevertheless, they felt travel was something they “ ought ” to do.

Travel can be deeply meaningful, as our study found. But a life well-lived need not be extravagant or adventurous. Finding what is meaningful is a deeply personal journey.

Names of study participants mentioned in this article are pseudonyms.

Professor Alex Broom is Director of the Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies. He is recognised as an international leader in sociology, with a specific interest in health, illness, and care.  

Dr  Katherine Kenny  is Deputy Director of the Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies, ARC DECRA Senior Research Fellow, and SOAR Prize recipient in the School of Social and Political Sciences at The University of Sydney.

Dr  Leah Williams Veazey  is ARC DECRA Research Fellow in the Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies in the School of Social and Political Sciences.  

This story was first published in  The Conversation . Hero Photo: Adobe Stock Image

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Mississippi State architecture students receive travel awards for international research

Contact: Christie McNeal

STARKVILLE, Miss.—A junior architecture student at Mississippi State will get a chance to broaden her global perspective with help from a $20,000 Aydelott Travel Award.

Yuria J. Sloane of Charleston, South Carolina, plans to travel this summer to Bolivia, Japan, New Zealand and Norway to research the use of architecture as a tool of oppression and liberation for indigenous communities. Her itinerary includes studies of architect Freddy Mamani's El Cholets in El Alto, Bolivia; the Okinawa Prefectural Museum by Ishimoto Architectural and Engineering Firm in Naha, Okinawa; architecture firm Tennent Brown’s Te Wharehou o Waikaremoana in Te Urewera, New Zealand; and architects Christian Sunby’s and Stein Halvorsen’s Sameting in Karasjok, Norway.

“Receiving this award has been eye opening to the possibilities of architectural work outside of traditional practice,” Sloane said. “I have never had an opportunity presented that allowed me to research something so personally important to me. It has inspired me to possibly follow a research-focused path during my schooling and beyond.”

Assistant Professor Silvina Lopez Barrera will advise Sloane in her research.

“Being of an indigenous group myself, I have found myself drawn to buildings with deep cultural motivations,” Sloane said. “When we think about modern examples of indigenous architecture, we cannot ignore the social elements that surround them and their ability to have a platform in the architecture industry. I settled on my topic because I think it is important to look at how architecture was used to harm and can now be used to repair.”

The $2.4 million endowment—established by late Memphis architect Alfred Lewis Aydelott and his wife Hope Galloway Aydelott—provides an award each year to four architecture students currently enrolled in the professional architecture degree programs at Mississippi State, as well as the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville; Auburn University; and the University of Tennessee.

Additionally, rising senior architecture major Anna Rives Gully of Starkville is receiving a $4,750 Trussell Travel Award sponsored by MSU School of Architecture alumnus Ted T. Porter to support her research on Daniel Libeskind’s Jewish Museum in Berlin, Germany. She will be specifically looking into how the building addresses and fits into the societal context of Berlin, defined by World War II and the Holocaust. Gully will further her contextual understanding of World War II in Europe through additional travels to Austria and Prague.

“The Aydelott and Trussell Travel Awards provide amazing opportunities for our students to experience architecture throughout the world,” said School of Architecture Director and F.L. Crane Professor Karen Cordes Spence. “We are extremely fortunate to have this support for students and are grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Aydelott and Mr. Porter for making this possible.”

MSU’s School of Architecture offers the state’s only professional architecture degree accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. Learn more at  www.caad.msstate.edu . Explore similar opportunities available to current architecture students at caad.msstate.edu/current-students/architecture/fellowships-awards .

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Human-sounding AI can plan, help book your travel. But can you trust it?

It wasn’t so long ago that travelers planned trips without the internet.

“Back in the day, our parents used to go to these travel agents and really kind of express what they were looking for and what kind of vacation they wanted,” said Saad Saeed, co-founder and CEO of Layla, an AI travel planner whose website launched this year. “Slowly, we kind of acclimatized ourselves to start using these search boxes, clicks, these forms and filters.”

Artificial intelligence-driven tools like Layla can now turn back the clock on that experience, engaging with users almost like humans to customize travel plans with lightning speed plus all the resources of the web. But does AI actually make travel planning easier and can it compare to human expertise? 

Yes and no. Here’s why.

Can AI actually understand us?

It can try. 

“What are you personally looking for in this trip and what do you want out of it?” asked Saeed. “Do you want to reconnect with your partner, for example, or do you want to just feel some adventure and thrill?” 

A human travel agent may ask a series of questions to understand a client’s needs. So can generative AI , which picks up on keywords. Mindtrip, an AI planner launched publicly on May 1, has an actual travel quiz that asks users to rank priorities like “Is your ideal vacation day an exhilarating adventure or a relaxing break?” using sliding scales.

“What we get at the end of that quiz, using the AI, is a really customized description,” explained  Mindtrip Founder and CEO Andy Moss. That then informs what the AI suggests to the traveler. 

Informed suggestions can save users time in narrowing down destinations and experiences, as well as  introduce places users may never have discovered on their own.

AI travel planning is here: How to use it to plan your next vacation and what you should know first

Can AI fully replace humans?

No. Layla may sound human, using conversational phrases like “I've got three cozy nests that won't make your wallet cry.”

“She has a personality. We try to make her funny and so on, where it's really that friend that can get to know you and then recommend you the perfect stuff,” Saeed said.

But part of Layla’s expertise comes from the real-life experiences of some 1,600 travel content creators  the Berlin-based platform has partnered with. Their videos and insights can give users a richer picture of what to expect.

Mindtrip also leans on human expertise, having tapped a limited group of travel influencers for curated content with plans to eventually open it up so anyone can share their travel itineraries and experiences with the public.

Story continues below.

Is AI a threat to privacy?

With all the rapid advancements in AI in just the past year, some users are wary of its safety .

“Data privacy is definitely one of our biggest concerns, and we ensure that none of the personal identifiable information ever reaches basically the model providers. That will all stay with us,” Layla’s Saeed said. “None of their personally identifiable data can ever be basically used to profile them or basically go into any of these systems, which are training these different models.”

Booz Allen Hamilton, the nation’s largest provider of AI to the federal government , focuses heavily on ethical and  secure AI, as well as adhering to the government’s policies on data collection. 

“We collect as little information as we can in order to provide a secure transaction,” said Booz Allen Hamilton Senior Vice President Will Healy, who heads up their recreation work, including Recreaton.gov , the government’s central travel planning site for public lands like national parks. “We don't save your searches. We don't save your credit card data. We're very careful about the data that we store.”

Yoon Kim, an assistant professor in MIT’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory , isn’t too worried about security in the initial brainstorming stages of travel planning with AI.

“I don't see, at this point, how AI-generated advice is spiritually different from travel guide articles that you might read on certain websites,” he said. “Travel planning is one really nice use case of these models, as narrow as it is, because it's a scenario in which you want to be given ideas but you don't actually need to commit to them.” 

What’s next for AI? 

Things could be different, though, if AI is used beyond trip planning. Deloitte sees AI being woven into all parts of travel.

“There is an opportunity for a real engine – I'm going to just use a generic term, engine – that allows you to search and pull it all together and to sort based off of your personal reasons for prioritization and then not stopping at ‘hey give me a list’ or ‘here's what to do,’ but ‘OK, now go create my itinerary, help me book it, track it all the way through that travel process,” said Matt Soderberg, principal, U.S. airlines leader for Deloitte. 

Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report, released in early April, identifies seven stages where AI can intersect with a trip, from personalized recommendations based on past travel, online purchases and tendencies to day-of issues to a post-travel pulse, where travelers may be asked about their experience and start thinking about future trips. 

“When you solve across all of those, that's going to be the Holy Grail,” Soderberg said. “The difficulty is that doesn't all sit in one place. And so how do you get the right information and the right data to bring all of that together for a single experience for the consumer? And who's going to own that?”

Layla and Mindtrip, among others, already offer booking through partners like Booking.com. “It's all about making things actionable,” Moss said.

But for now, if issues come up mid-trip, AI tools can’t fix them like humans can. Humans still have to get involved.

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Things to Do in Lobnya, Russia - Lobnya Attractions

Things to do in lobnya.

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• Temple of the Divine Savior
• Temple-Chapel of St. Matrona
• Palace of Sports Lobnya
• Lobnya Park of Culture and Recreation
• Lake Kiovo Natural Monument of Federal Significance