Top 15 Essential Safety Gadgets for Senior Adventurers

My aunt has been navigating the world solo for as long as I can recall, with her first independent expedition at 18 years of age leading her across the ocean to London. Since then, she has amassed 45 years’ worth of passport stamps, checking off places like Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Thailand, Bhutan, Morocco, and even Kenya on her travel agenda. Her most-frequented country? France, to which she travels at least once annually, frequently by herself, and has been blogging about for a decade. One solo journey to France had her away from her home in Toronto for 10 weeks, so it goes without saying she is well-versed in the significance of traveling with trustworthy equipment. 

As a proud “cautious individual,” my 65-year-old aunt consistently emphasizes the importance of practical travel accessories equipped with anti-theft features — indeed, she revealed to me that she has been utilizing a money belt since the ‘80s. As new items and advancements emerge in the market and her solo journeys persist, she has built an impressive collection of safety gadgets and accessories. Ranging from a decoy wallet to her preferred anti-theft travel bag, here are the 13 Amazon travel essentials she suggests for fellow senior solo explorers, whether they are setting off on a month-long adventure or a brief weekend escape. 

Pacsafe TravelSafe Portable Safe

One of my aunt’s preferred travel gear brands is Pacsafe due to its extensive selection of highly-rated products featuring anti-theft technology. She possesses two sizes of the Pacsafe portable safe, which she utilizes to store her valuables while on the move. For added security, she secures it to a fixed object in her accommodations. This safe is virtually impossible to slash into because of the stainless steel wire mesh integrated into the fabric, and it folds flat, making it convenient to transport. 

Baggallini Anti-theft Travel Backpack

Being hands-free is essential for my aunt, and she always brings along an anti-theft backpack composed of slash-resistant material. This lightweight backpack serves as an ideal daypack as it is spacious enough to carry necessities like a water bottle, a light jacket, and any small items acquired during a day of sightseeing. It also includes a concealed back pocket with RFID-blocking card slots for extra safeguarding.   

Apple AirTag 4-pack

Although my aunt concedes that she doesn’t frequently check her luggage, when she does, she always employs an Apple AirTag just in case her luggage gets misplaced. Upon reaching her destination, she’ll place one AirTag in the suitcase left behind and another for the day bag she’s carrying for total peace of mind while on the move.   

Venture 4th Travel Money Belt

An essential in her travel accessory collection since the early ‘80s, a money belt remains a prized item on my aunt’s packing list as it ensures the safety of belongings such as her credit card, cash, and passport. Opting for a breathable belt that effectively wicks away moisture is crucial to prevent sweat from wrinkling her cash or vital documents (a lesson my aunt mentioned she learned the hard way during a trip to Greece). 

Travelambo Minimalist Slim Wallet

I had never thought about traveling with a decoy wallet until my aunt informed me that she carries one with her whenever she travels. She generally stashes approximately 5 Euros in a simple wallet that she could hand over if she were to be robbed, while her actual wallet remains secure. This authentic leather wallet is budget-friendly and won’t add any unnecessary bulk to your daypack or handbag. 

Vargo Titanium Emergency Whistle

An essential low-tech safety tool that my aunt never voyages without is a reliable safety whistle. As a dedicated runner who trains (and competes) during her travels, she appreciates that it occupies minimal space in her luggage, is affordable, and provides her peace of mind during outdoor activities. This titanium whistle weighs about the same as a paper clip and is remarkably sturdy. 

Vadoo Sling Bag

My aunt prefers to keep her belongings close to her at all times, which is why she opts for a crossbody bag along with a backpack while traveling. She favors this Amazon-favored sling bag for its lightweight and adjustable design that smoothly hugs her body for comfort on the airplane. This bag also includes five handy pockets for maximum on-the-go organization. 

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch 

When my aunt kayaked through the Gorges del l’Ardèche in France, she wanted to capture photos with her phone but didn’t wish to take the risk of it getting wet — or worse, plunging into the water. From running in the rain to aquatic adventures, this waterproof phone pouch has transformed into an unexpected safety accessory she never departs without. Keeping your phone dry is not merely smart but vital since it likely serves as your hub for crucial travel documents, itineraries, and more.  

Anker Power Bank

There’s hardly anything as nerve-wracking as being alone in an unfamiliar country with a dead phone. To prevent this predicament, my aunt consistently travels with a portable power bank like this compact version from Anker. It’s small enough to fit in a bag or pocket without adding extra weight, and it can recharge two devices at once.

Gostwo Compact RFID-blocking Wallet

A must-have for my aunt while traveling is a wallet equipped with RFID-blocking technology to prevent her sensitive information from being inadvertently stolen by digital thieves. This compact choice accommodates six cards, cash, and coins, and is available in a variety of colors. Additionally, it’s extremely sleek and stylish enough to complement her everyday handbag. 

Forge TSA-approved Cable Luggage Locks

My aunt understands that all it takes is a simple pin to unlock a TSA-approved lock, yet she utilizes them on her luggage to discourage potential thieves while her bag is being transported or merely resting beside her as she waits to board the flight. These highly-rated TSA-approved locks are straightforward to set and are created with 100 percent zinc alloy for remarkable durability. 

She’s Birdie The

Original Personal Safety Alarm

A protective instrument that my aunt has thoughtfully contemplated acquiring is a personal safety alarm. She perceives herself as quite alert but confesses she has become more careful as she ages. This editor-favored and top-selling safety alarm is popular among solo explorers for its portable, lightweight, and user-friendly design; it produces a loud siren and blinking strobe light to manage potentially threatening scenarios. 

Emdmak Door Stop Alarm 2-pack

Resting in an unfamiliar environment is challenging even for the most experienced travelers, which is why incorporating an additional level of protection, such as a door alarm, can aid in ensuring a restful sleep no matter where you stay. My aunt has thought about bringing this security gadget with her since they are easy to pack and serve as a superb deterrent. Moreover, this door alarm offers three sensitivity settings and produces a piercing sound that will effectively frighten away an intruder. 

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