6 Travel Items Smart Seniors Should Always Buy Before Retirement
Written by
Cara Danielle Brown
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Approaching retirement and ready to finally see the world? As we age, traveling may not be as easy or fast-paced. So what’s one to do?
Well, instead of stressing about aging and its inevitable drawbacks when it comes to travel, just prepare accordingly. Here are a few travel items smart seniors should purchase prior to taking flight.
Also see 15 secrets from travel insiders that will save you a lot of money.
High-Quality, Lightweight Luggage
Invest in some high-quality, lightweight luggage — particularly four-wheel spinners, said Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago. Lightweight spinners ease pressure on joints and make transit far less challenging.
Further, “light” does not mean fragile. High-quality models use advanced materials like polycarbonate and other durable fabrics to withstand lots of wear without weighing down your luggage.
Schwab likes Away, which offers medium-sized suitcases for $345.
Compression Socks
“Elevated pressure compression socks are effective to aid circulation on extended flights” by gently squeezing the legs, according to Dean Rotchin, founder and CEO of BlackJet Aviation Charters. This is particularly important to help alleviate swelling, pain or fluid buildup that can accumulate after sitting for long periods.
Bombas sells a three-pack for $120.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Rotchin also recommended investing in comfortable and supportive walking shoes to avoid muscle exhaustion and foot pain. Since feet support the entire body, proper footwear helps take pressure off hips, back and knee joints, ensuring you can spend maximum time on vacation touring your favorite locations.
Per Atlantic Health, quality footwear typically has six key traits: a snug fit that’s not too tight, proper arch support, cushioning to absorb impact, a stable heel structure, a wide and high toe-box, and a soft, breathable fabric.
Brooks is a podiatrist favorite, with prices ranging between $65 and $275.
Power Bank With Multiple USB Ports
Nowadays, travelers will inevitably need to charge any one of their various devices. That’s why Johan Siggesson, travel expert and owner of Johan Siggesson Photography, suggested purchasing a portable power bank.
“Primarily for safety, you will want to stay in touch with your family and have access to a navigation device,” Siggesson said. You’ll also want to make sure your camera is juiced up. No one wants a dead battery while posing on the Great Wall of China.
The Omni 40+ is a compact and robust option that retails for $399. There are also many more affordable options at popular retailers.
Compression Packing Cubes
Steven Vigor, travel advisor and CEO of Revigorate, advised seniors to look into compression packing cubes. Not only do they help keep you organized, but the two-zipper system helps reduce volume to maximize space inside your luggage. They also make finding things much easier.
Eagle Creek offers a three-pack for $59 on Amazon.
Medication Organizer
Adhering to your typical health regimens tends to go out the window while traveling. That’s why Stephen Bleeker, founder and CEO of Assurance Home Care, advised buying a well-designed pill organizer to help stay consistent with daily medications. “Maintaining medication routines is so important, even when traveling, and these organizers help keep you on track and promote routine,” Bleeker said.
The foldable Aozita pill organizer holds one week of pills and is just under $10 on Amazon.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
More From GOBankingRates
