1. Remember, you're not as young as you used to be. That doesn't mean you can't have a good time on your trip. It does mean that you have to pace yourself. Don't try to crowd a week's worth of sightseeing into one day. In fact, try to organize each day so that you have some time to rest.

2. Now, where you are going? If you are driving to an unfamiliar area, get a map and study it carefully before you leave. Internet companies provide online maps and driving instructions. After you become familiar with the directions, write them down. If you are traveling with your spouse or a companion, let your passenger read the directions to you as you drive. That will simplify your trip.

3. Treat yourself right. As we grow older, creature comforts become ever more important while we are traveling. A major gripe is the rock-like pillows that are furnished at so many hotels. When taking a motor trip, bring your pillows from home. It makes a big difference as to how well you sleep.

4. Preparedness is next to godliness. Remember when we could throw a few things into a suitcase and jump on the next plane to wherever. Not anymore. These days, We find that whether travel is a pleasure or a pain can depend on how well or poorly we prepare.

Before departing, Take a small notebook and write down all of the information you will need, including flight numbers, departure and arrival times; hotel names, addresses, phone numbers and reservation confirmation numbers; and taxi companies' phone numbers. Having a little book handy cuts down on the separate pieces of paper you have to carry in your pocket.

5. Let there be light. Pack a flashlight. In fact, if you are driving, take two big flashlights to keep in the trunk for roadside emergencies. Then, take a smaller flashlight to use when you walk to and from your car at night. It also will be useful in your hotel room if you get out of bed at night. Better yet, bring along a small night light that you can plug into the bathroom socket. That way, you can find your way around your room at night without stumbling or awakening your spouse. 6. Pack lightly. Heavy suitcases can strain your back. . Retirees should use luggage with wheels that roll easily. Luggage handlers are available at most airports, but many moderate-priced hotels no longer have bellhops who will carry your bags.

7. Time flies when you're having fun. Conversely, long, boring trips can be no fun. One way to make time pass quickly is to listen to tape-recorded books as we drive. The narrative doesn't interfere with the driving, and it is infinitely more interesting than listening to the radio.

On long plane trips, of course, airlines usually show movies. And senior-citizen bus tours usually try to entertain their passengers by showing videos.

8. Stay in touch. Let's face it: You want to get away, but you don't really want to be out of touch. If your family or friends need to talk to you, you want to be available. A cellular phone will help keep you in touch. It also would come in handy in the event of a roadside emergency. There are dozens of cell-phone companies and calling plans, and it may take some time to figure out what's best for you. But it's worth the effort.

9. Have pharmacy, will travel. One of our clients says she likes to travel but hates "all that stuff you have to take with you." By that, she means all the medications she has to take every day - plus the other stuff she might need in an emergency. If you're going away for a couple of weeks, make sure you have an adequate supply of your pills. One way to manage your pills is to use one of those plastic boxes that help you organize a 30-day supply of medications.

10. Laugh a lot. When you travel, you are sure to spend time with other people. There may be family members, friends or strangers you meet on a plane, train, ship or bus. In those situations, humor can go a long way to break the ice and create a pleasant social atmosphere. As you pack for your trip, take along a few good stories to get the ball rolling.