Are You Fit for Travel?

Having traveled to London and various other European cities several times, one of the things I adore—and a favorite insight I like to share about travel—is that life overseas can differ significantly from life in the U.S., particularly due to the amount of walking involved. I've noticed that many people I've seen on vacation, as well as those I know, might not experience the kind of magical trips I've had, simply because it's physically different from our usual way of living.

To begin, consider that once you land (and are a little tired from the flight), you may need to walk great lengths from your airplane's gate to the passport control area or take a bus or train to another terminal. If you're not prepared for this, you may be able to request airport transportation. Are you prepared to walk multiple flights of stairs, with a fast-moving crowd in busy subway underground stations? Locals often walk fast, whether heading to the office or shopping, many people are just going through their day. Does your hotel have elevators large enough for you and your luggage? Are you able to lift your luggage to place in the overhead bins?

Here are a few tips that may help you decide where, and how, you want to travel. Planning ahead for such an experience will pay off in a more relaxed and enjoyable vacation.

Do's:

• Travel light. If possible, take hand luggage including a small roller and bag or backpack only. If you plan to DIY your transportation you will find it much easier to navigate subways, trains, and buses and sidewalks. Bring a packable bag if you do want to shop and bring more things home than fit in your roller.

• Get fit for your trip. In numerous European cities, walking is the ideal way to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the sights. Many historical landmarks are situated on vast properties, which means you might spend several hours on your feet, walking up hills and climbing numerous flights of stairs. If you aren't accustomed to walking at home, begin a few months before your trip to build up to the level you anticipate needing on your vacation. Check with sites to understand the ground details. My husband and I walked 26,000 steps (approximately 12 miles) in a single day in London! However, we encountered amazing sights with every step

• Practice with your packed bag. Can you lift it overhead, if necessary? Can you walk a block or more with it and everything else you want to carry with you?

• Make sure your carry on is allowed. European airlines size requirements are smaller than US airlines.

• Bring comfortable shoes. Nothing is worse than logging a few thousand steps and getting a blister. I pack my most comfortable running shoes and maybe one other pair for an evening out.

• If you know you will need assistance with getting around, consider booking door-to-door transportation.

• Consider travel insurance, especially for international travel, luxury train trips, skiing, or cruises. Check your own credit card insurance, but many travel insurance policies cover things your credit cards or health insurance won't cover.

• Consider a river cruise that visits multiple European city centers without the need to unpack, repack and move to a new location.

Don'ts

• Don't wait to consider transportation, location challenges, or bring assistive devices.

• Don't forget to pack basic medical supplies like band-aids, antibiotic ointment, pain medication, etc.

• Don't forget to ask traveling companions if they have a plan for all of the above.