(A version of this article by Colorado-based writer Judy Christie originally appeared in the June 2022 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)

For months you have dreamed of adventures ahead, and now comes the happy task of putting together travel logistics:

Plan Your Destination

“I’m a huge proponent of travel. I really value experiences over things and feel like everyone should get out of their comfort zone a bit,” said Lila Quintiliani, program director, Financial and Benefits Education/Counseling at MOAA.

“Take the time to research your destination, compare prices. … Things don’t have to be completely scheduled, but you should have a rough idea of what you want to do and see.”

Money Tips

Create a travel budget with meals, transportation (flights, gas, rental cars, public transport, ride shares), lodging (resort fees, parking fees), admission fees, gratuities. Also, you may want to notify your banks and credit card companies that you are traveling.

Do the math. Airfare + car rental + gas at your destination could cost more than driving your own vehicle. Car rental prices are extra high now, so check on prices as your trip draws closer. Consider gas taxes in states you’ll visit. Some states have been doing temporary gas tax holidays.

[RELATED: MOAA's Military State Report Card and Tax Guide]

Ask for a military discount. Some airlines, such as JetBlue and Southwest, offer discounts, but you must ask for them. Museums and national parks are discounted or free for servicemembers and military retirees.

Consider travel insurance. This can cover trip cancellation due to illness, trip interruption, delays, and medevac. See if your credit card offers insurance.

[RELATED: MOAA Members Can Save on Emergency Assistance Plus]

Understand medical coverage. If you are on Medicare and travel overseas, coverage is through TRICARE Select, and you must satisfy deductibles/cost shares. You may have to pay up front and get reimbursed.

If you’re taking a cruise or going to a remote location, TRICARE covers evacuation if needed.  

Check Out These Apps

Cheapest gas? Look at the popular GasBuddy app (free).

Federal and state park activities: Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder app (free) is a virtual guidebook to every U.S. federal and state park and 50,000+ local parks.

Gearing Up

“The outdoors is for everyone. It doesn’t matter what your ability or skill level,” said Jaime Overmyer, Wilderness Program director, Breckenridge (Colo.) Outdoor Education Center, including the Heroic Military Program for wounded vets and their families. “You can go anywhere. Do the proper research, and find the resources you need. Get out there and try it.”

Her tips for outdoor travel:

Stay fueled. Carry a day pack with a reusable water bottle. Include high-protein snacks such as beef jerky, since candy only provides bursts of energy.

Wear at least 30 SPF sunblock. Keep sun off your head and face with a hat. Protect your eyes with sunglasses or a shade hat.

Dress in layers and carry a rain jacket. Choose clothing with quick-dry material — not 100% cotton. Wear appropriate footwear, with proper support for walking. Don’t break in boots on a hike.

Guides and Apps

AllTrails: Hike, Bike & Run app (free for basic; $29.99 a year, pro model) has more than 200,000 trail maps, including trails good for dogs and kids.

Peakfinder: This app ($4.99) works offine and can identify more than 850,000 peaks, from Mount Everest to hills you see while driving. Also, this is a quick way to check elevation.

What’s that plant? The PlantSnap app ($3.99) identifies more than 600,000 types of plants.

Get Ready for the Road

Be prepared for common vehicle breakdowns, said Lt. Col. Walt Brinker, USA (Ret), MOAA Life Member and author of Roadside Survival: Low-Tech Solutions to Automobile Breakdowns who has done 2,000+ roadside assists.

His car safety tips:

• Always have a spare tire, even a donut. Pack tools such as a compact jack and lug wrench. Ensure correct pressure in all tires and that the spare is not flat or low.
• Keep an eye on the gas gauge. Refill at a quarter tank.
• Replace weak batteries. Carry 20-foot-long jumper cables in case the battery dies.
• Don’t ignore the check-engine light.

For more vehicle help from Brinker, visit RoadsideSurvival.com.

On-the-Road Resources

For car and motorcycle trips: National Geographic Guide to Scenic Highways and Byways: The 300 Best Drives in the U.S.

Handy for the car: Spiral-bound Rand McNally 2022 EasyFinder Midsize Road Atlas.

Need a bathroom?: Flush app (free) shows where to find 200,000 public restrooms.

Treat yourself: Roadfood: An Eater’s Guide to More Than 1,000 of the Best Local Hot Spots and Hidden Gems Across America, by Jane and Michael Stern.