How to Travel Light and Nifty When You’re Over 50

One of my biggest passions is travel, and if I could, I’d do it all year long. But traveling can be taxing for those of us over 50. We have to maneuver through crowded airports, squeeze ourselves into seats like sardines, and haul our luggage from planes into trains, buses, and automobiles. The actual “travel” part of traveling is what takes a toll on our heads, shoulders, knees, and toes. Still, nothing is more thrilling than getting on a plane and taking off to a fabulous destination.  That’s why it’s best to travel light.

It’s not always easy if you’re a female

We like to dress to impress, especially if we’re traveling on a group tour or cruise. The more we stuff in our bags, the more it’s a pain in the neck… literally. That’s why I’ve put together my recommended list of travel accessories and essentials to travel light, so you can enjoy your trip and still be in style.

Carry a cross-body bag

Certain items spell out “tourist” and can be prey to pickpockets. Backpacks, Fannie packs, passport holders, and other “designated travel gear” are easy to spot. As women, most of us carry some type of purse, but for travel, we need something sturdy and preferably structured. A well-designed cross-body bag with RFID security will give the most control.

In the interest of traveling light, it is best to find a bag that is medium in size. If it is too small, it’s easy to lose things, and if it’s too large, it’s too heavy to carry. Items you may want to have could include your phone, wallet, documents, a small digital camera, a small umbrella, and some snacks. I also prefer a bag with a holder for a water bottle to stay hydrated. The most important feature I look for in a bag is a secure fastener so it doesn’t pop open unexpectedly, making it easy prey to thieves.

Travelon makes anti-theft bags with multiple compartments that zip up securely. They are also lightweight.

You can also travel safely carrying a non-travel-designated bag that looks stylish. Kate Spade has chic cross-body bags that don’t scream “tourist.”

Another cool item to help keep track of what is in your purse is to insert a purse organizer, especially if you are carrying a tote bag. This felt purse organizer insert can take your stuff from one purse to another so you won’t forget anything.

If possible, only bring a carry-on bag

I like to travel as light as humanly possible and always try to limit myself to a carry-on bag along with a second personal item bag for my purse, laptop, and toiletries. That way, there is less to schlep when you are trying to get on a train or subway, and you can easily transfer your belongings to the next hotel. I only take basic “capsule wardrobe” items that mix and match in a neutral color palette.

A spinner suitcase has 4 wheels, rather than 2, making it easier to maneuver in different directions. Away makes excellent carry-on and checked luggage. A good size for carry-on is its 14.4″L x 9″W x 21.7″H case that is allowable on most International and domestic flights

Always check your airline’s required carry-on bag dimensions for storage in the overhead bin.

Away also has a lovely personal item bag with a trolley strap for all your flight essentials and a laptop.

For more travel carry-on essentials, click here.

What about winter clothes?

I’ve taken several European trips in November and December when the weather was chilly. I recommend it as many cities and towns are dressed up for the holidays. However, it’s not as easy to travel light when it’s freezing outside and you need a warm coat.

One thing I NEVER do is pack bulky sweaters or wool coats. One fat sweater will fill up an entire suitcase? Instead, I bring a nylon down jacket that will squish into a small bag if needed. For extra warmth, baselayer tops and bottoms are wonderful because they don’t take up space in your luggage, but more importantly, don’t add bulk to your figure when you are having photos taken.

When it’s cold, it’s all about your jacket

I love Columbia outerwear and wear one of their down jackets during the winter. The important thing is you don’t want to look like the Pillsbury Doughboy. Choose one that doesn’t add weight to your figure.

Find Columbia insulated jackets on Amazon here.

If the weather is rainy, take a waterproof jacket with you. Rather than look like a tourist in a plastic poncho, bring along a lightweight rain jacket that folds up compactly instead.

See waterproof jackets from Columbia on Amazon here.

Travel tip – Carry your coat on the plane so you can use it as a pillow to snuggle up in. Airplanes are notoriously chilly.

You may also enjoy: 10 Winter Travel Tips for Baby Boomers

Use packing cubes to organize your suitcase

Eagle Creek has a large selection of packing cubes so you can separate items in your luggage and make them easier to find. They come in a variety of colors and sizes.  They’re also perfect for storing dirty or wet clothes

Visit the Eagle Creek store on Amazon here

To travel light make your clothing options simple

My travel uniform is often a pair of comfortable black or navy pants and a black or navy top. I wear dark colors because they hide most of my bulges in photos. I also like to choose a fabric that’s easy to rinse out and dry.  I might also bring along a reversible jacket to give some color to my “uniform”, which is two jackets in one, or a pretty silk infinity scarf so I don’t have to worry about tying it.

If you’re traveling from city to city, there is no reason to make multiple outfit changes because no one has seen you before. A small collection of clothing you can mix and match that is no iron, is easy to pack, and saves a ton of space, does the trick. It’s also a good idea to pack a simple dark-colored travel dress that can be accessorized for either a casual or more formal occasion.

Make sure your shoes are comfortable

Traveling usually means lots of walking, which is healthy, so a pair of sturdy walking shoes is a must. To prevent getting blisters, wear durable socks to protect your skin. Your feet will thank you, and you’ll have much more fun.

You may also want to pack a pair of flat loafers, ballet slippers, or sandals, depending on the weather and your location. Leave your stilettos at home to avoid any accidents that could ruin your vacation.

Read my post about the best comfortable shoes to wear for people over 50.

A packing tip – Take no more than three pairs of shoes and fill the insides with your socks or undies to save space in your suitcase.

How do you travel light? Please leave a comment below.