Clouds hiding in the mountain! Or the solitude of the pine forest. Is the joy of travel tied to the age frame? Not at all. However, the body’s capacity decreases with age. So when planning to trek up and down mountain roads with elderly parents, what is in the bag becomes the key to a comfortable trip. Smart packing is the real mantra if you want to get big pleasure in small steps.

Not unless there are seven things?

1. ‘Mini Pharmacy’ and Prescription of Medicines

Keep an extra supply of at least 10 days of medicines that parents take regularly. Carry an inhaler or pain reliever spray. But the most important is the recent prescription from the doctor. Do not forget to keep the doctor’s phone number!

2. Proper footwear and compression socks

A shoe with good grip is a must on rugged mountain roads. The sole of the shoe should have arch support. Many people get swollen feet after sitting in the car for a long time. In that case ‘compression socks’ or socks work like magic to keep blood circulation normal.

3. Folding sticks and hearing aids

Carry a foldable or collapsible walking stick, even if there is little difficulty in walking. This will provide added balance on high-low roads. Also, if the parents are hard of hearing, don’t forget to take extra batteries for the hearing aid.

4. Photocopy of documents and insurance card

Keep at least two photocopies of Aadhaar Card or Voter Card along with the original copy. Travel insurance is very important these days. Keep the insurance card close at hand, especially the one that has emergency medical cover.

5. DRY FOOD & ORS IN SMALL PACKETS

Many times you have to get stuck in jams on mountain roads for a long time. So keep dry fruits, nuts, machana or biscuits in the bag. It is wise to carry ORS or glucose mixed water to keep the body hydrated.

6. Neck pillow and light sheets

Sitting in a car for a long time on hilly winding roads is tiring for the elderly. A memory foam neck pillow and lightweight compact travel blanket will make their trip much more comfortable.

7. Hygiene and sanitization

Along with hand sanitizer, carry toilet seat, sanitizer spray and paper soap for using public toilets. It is very helpful in avoiding the risk of infection in elderly.

Mountains mean uncertainty. So do a ‘trial packing’ two days before the main packing. The bag should not be too heavy. The lighter the visit of the parents, the more their smiles will remain unblemished.