Posted on Friday, 10 March 2017

For most of us, travel continues to hold great allure in our later years – and in some regards may be even more pleasurable.

But there are some aspects of travel we can do without.

Dormitories, hard beds, noisy hotels and even low-cost airlines are some of the aspects of travel that most older people would rather not deal with.

Most of these can be side-stepped at the booking stage, while others require a more hands-on approach. Here we bring you 10 travel accessories that are sure to make your travels easier and more comfortable.

Compression socks

Deep vein thrombosis – it's as undesirable as it sounds. A good pair of compression socks, however, can help alleviate any circulation issues while you're 36,000 feet in the air. In addition, try to move around the cabin regularly, as well as doing some in-seat exercises to keep your circulation going.

More information on DVT and compression socks

Folding cane/walking stick

A regular walking stick is not the most practical of travel accessories – but a folding cane is. Lightweight and compact, the latest canes are ideal for keeping your balance while on holiday.

Folding cane with seat

Not quite as convenient to carry around as a folding walking stick, but most welcome when you need to take the weight off! Ideal for queues or when you want to enjoy a view in comfort (when there aren't any seats around).

Neck pillow

Failing to get some decent sleep – especially on a long-haul flight – can make jetlag even worse. A neck pillow, however, can really help and at the very least will reduce any neck ache.

Day sack

Traditionalists might resist the 'day sack' as too new-fangled, but it may prove to be one of your most useful travel accessories. Pack everything you need for a day of sightseeing into a day sack and you'll be able to use both arms as you move around.

Cross-body bag

Not a fan of day sacks? Have a bad back? Then the cross-body bag could be the perfect alternative. Ideal for a day excursion and easy-to-access.

Lightweight, rolling luggage

Getting your belongings to and from your destination could be one of the most stressful aspects of your trip. But a strong yet lightweight suitcase with wheels could make all the difference. Choose a modestly-sized suitcase and you may be able to use it as hand luggage – thus avoiding those fees!

Attachable glass case

This nifty item enables you to keep your all-important spectacles on your person at all times. Just snap them on to your belt, hand bag or luggage and your glasses will be ready whenever you need them. You'll also be much less likely to lose them!

RFID blocking money belt

Not only does an RFID money belt help keep your most important items (bank cards, passport, money) physically safe, but it also prevents criminals from using illegal devices to take money from your RFID-enabled cards.

Over-65s travel insurance

Not a travel accessory as such – but arguably more important than any other item on this list. Falling ill or getting injured while overseas can be very costly – not to mention stressful. Over-65s travel insurance from starttravel.co.uk gives you real peace of mind that you're protected while overseas. As well as covering you for up to £10m in emergency medical expenses, our policy also covers your personal effects and possessions up to £2,000 and legal expenses up to £25,000. Many other unwanted events are also covered.

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