Before you roam, always read up on weather conditions, latest travel news and info about destinations. What you also must thoroughly research is recently-reported infections, diseases and other ailments spread among senior travelers.

For seniors who fear catching illnesses while crammed into trains, planes, buses, taxis, vans and cruise ships, here are some hints on fighting back:

A most effective question a senior traveler can utter is: can you do better than that? Or as a definite statement: I’m sure you can do better than that. Not hostile. Not demanding. Just say it with conviction, backed up by an I-know-the-score smile.

For the past decade, because of the steep rise in oil prices, the wars and unchecked inflation, travel costs have skyrocketed. But recent developments indicate there may be happier days ahead for the senior traveler. Oil prices dropped, and travel prices should follow.

You know the airport check-in routine by heart now. Get there two hours early, then go through security lines, show your driver’s license and boarding pass. Check bags, then take off shoes, lift and put everything into a plastic box and watch it disappear into the x-ray tunnel.

Then, when the guard lets you through the electronic gate after magic wand poking, you hustle over to get your stuff again and hop around trying to put on shoes.

Total awareness at the wheel can be literally a matter of life and death for senior roadies. Additionally, in this day of smartphones, tweeters, twitters and other devices, staying alert gets tougher. Now being at the wheel has more dangers to add to the traditional distractions.

The reality of driving, whether to the local store or across the country, is that safety is a never-ending responsibility. It’s critical for senior drivers who travel long distances and spend many hours behind the wheel. Some suggestions for safe driving include: 

1. Before you go, be sure your car is in excellent condition, including engine, electrical system, brakes and tires. Faulty heating units can cause drowsiness. The interior should be clean and secure from anything that could distract the driver or be propelled around on sudden stops.