Safety and Security Tips for Older Travellers
For many, reaching pensionable age is nothing to feel down about. In fact, there are lots of enjoyable things to do with all that free time - not least of which is, you guessed it, to take more holidays!
But there's no denying that taking a sojourn across Europe - or somewhere even more challenging such as the Asian sub-continent - is a different kettle of fish to going on a similar jaunt in your 20s.
Safety and security are priorities for all travellers, but even more so for more mature adventurers - who tend to pop up on the radar of thieves and tricksters more readily.
Luckily, there are a raft of common-sense ways to mitigate or minimise these risks.
1. Get covered
OK - you knew this would be on the list somewhere! It is a genuine must-have for all travellers - but especially when you're older. You're more likely to need insurance as you age, which is why it can cost a bit more. Our immune systems become less effective as we mature and we can become less steady and agile on our feet. That means we're more susceptible to illnesses and accidents.
2. Hotel security
Don't advertise the fact you're not in by leaving the 'please clean room' sign on the door. Indeed, the 'do not disturb' sign could offer more security. Ask for a room in a busy part of the hotel, where the extra footfall will help deter thieves. That said, ground floor rooms may be less secure in some hotels as thieves can sometimes access them more easily.
3. Buy some good shoes
Shoes with heels - even low ones - can make you less steady and more likely to sprain an ankle, or lose your footing altogether. Choose a pair of comfortable flat shoes - durable enough to handle all those walking tours.
4. Don't advertise those costly belongings
Thieves are on the lookout for jewellery, watches, expensive cameras, smart-phones - indeed anything of value. Avoid wearing/waving these items around in busy places. It's also a good idea to swap your handbag for a day backpack - which will be much harder to pinch. Thieves on motorcycles operate in some countries - and they can grab your belongings very quickly. While it might be tough to leave your smart-phone/tablet at home, you might consider leaving expensive jewellery at home in the UK. If you do pack such items, keep them locked in your hotel safe where possible.
5. Take care of your medicine
Make sure you bring enough for the duration of your trip. Pack any related documentation to show to any quizzical customs officials - and to show chemists should you run out/lose your meds. Research the equivalent medicines in your destination country and note the names down.
6. Exercise caution at mealtimes
Our stomachs tend to get more sensitive as we age, so it's a good idea to avoid certain foods while overseas. Side-stepping salads is prudent since they may be washed in the local tap water - which can harbour bacteria. Avoid very spicy foods - as they can play havoc with your digestive system. Also be aware of any interactions with your meds. For example, those on ACE inhibitors should avoid bananas. Grapefruit juice is another one to watch, since it can interact with some medicines - often by increasing absorption of some drugs.
7. Keep the folks back home informed
Travelling solo? It's a good idea to draft an itinerary - and keep to it. Give a copy to your nearest and dearest and keep them up to date with your progress. Stay in touch by phone, email, SMS - or whichever medium you prefer. Doing this should mean the alarm is raised quickly if something goes wrong.
Need over-60s travel insurance? Find out about starttravel.co.uk's range of travel policies for older travellers.
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