It could be a screaming baby, a yakker next to you, aisle noises and/or loud engine sounds. If it’s grossly overwhelming, you can ask the attendant to move you to another seat. Or you can solve the problem by blocking out the pain in the ears. Before your next flight, check for the latest in portable noise-reducing earphones and electronic video and sound devices.

For upcoming seasonal wandering plans you’re sure to notice that this year’s prices, as usual, have gone up for airfare, hotels, restaurants and just about everything else. There’s at least one way to fight the inflated charges, and it will cost you just $16 for an annual AARP membership.

The result is that by flashing your AARP card, prices go lower with discounts from, for example, American Airlines, Best Western Hotels, Carnival Cruises, Hertz, Greyhound and many, many more. As an AARP member, always check for senior discounts when making travel plans. For more info, go to www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-2018

Of course, the greedy oil cartels are always profiting from supply and demand. Once more, this season they’ll once again do their annual robbery price gouging on American motorists.

What can a senior roadie do to give the thieves as little as possible? A few tips. If you’re considering a new car, do some research about buying a semi- or all-electric model. They cost more when you buy them, but fuel savings add up quickly to make up for it.

While on a long drive, use your smartphone to seek out gas stations ahead with the cheapest rates. Also, whenever possible, car pool your trips. And, of course, if you’re in good senior shape, bike or hike to nearby destinations.

In your travel bag, always carry a small plastic slanted doorstop. When you lock yourself into your hotel room at night or other time when you need privacy, wedge it securely under the inside bottom of the door. It provides maximum safety beyond the internal chain or external locks that could be forced open from the hallway.