As chronic illness sufferers, travel can feel daunting and challenging. Since I’ve had more pain, mobility issues, and been on more medications, traveling has looked different than it used to. And after our beach vacation last year, this next vacation will look a little different too. I know there are some who have put off vacations due to their chronic illnesses, but for some of us, wanderlust won’t wait! Here are some chronic illness travel hacks for the epic adventures we want to have.
Pre-Trip:
First things first, check with your doctor. Schedule a pre-travel check up with your doctor and discuss your medications, what you can do when you have a flare up, and any other contingency plans. Be sure to research and discuss any vaccinations you may need or any health risks you may need to be aware of.
Research your destination is the next step, especially if you have any accessibility needs. How will you get around the area, or is it all inclusive? Based on the area, what type of shoes will work best for you? What will the weather be like? How will the weather affect your condition? All of this information will help you understand what to pack.
Now it’s time to start thinking about your packing list. What medications, including any “rescue” medications do you need to pack? Are there other medical supplies or equipment you need to bring, like your cane, a wheelchair, heating pads, etc.? Anywhere I go, I will definitely be taking my cane, a fan (or two), and my heating pad. I will also be taking a sweater and probably a throw blanket for comfort.
When I go on vacation, I usually have one or two things I really want to do, but I like to keep things flexible. The point of vacation for me is relaxation. But if you have a bigger itinerary and plan to do more, be sure to fit in some down time. It’s important for your body. Pace yourself and be willing to be flexible. It’s vacation after all.
Managing Your Health During Travel:
How do you manage your health while you are traveling? It’s important to have a plan ahead of time. The biggest thing is to maintain as regular a routine as you can, especially with your medication and sleep schedule and to listen to your body so you can take breaks as needed.
Every other year, we take a vacation to the beach. It’s the most relaxing and calming vacation we take. In the past, time in the sun was never much of an issue. Last year, I began to notice that I was much less heat tolerant than I used to be. One of our kids, his girlfriend, and our grandbaby came to spend a couple of days with us. We chose to go play putt putt to do something fun together. Halfway through the game, I began to feel unsteady and began to get a headache. I decided it was best if I went inside and took a break. I had to miss out on the last half of the game, but if I hadn’t gone inside, I would have fallen down or fainted. The next day, the same thing happened when we spent time on the beach and were walking back to the condo. I’ve learned that I need to drink even more water than I already was, and that I need to be in the shade as often as I can. I will be wearing a hat more and sitting under an umbrella on the beach so I always have shade.
Knowing these things about myself ahead of time will make me more prepared for future vacations. I want to enjoy my vacation and the things I went there to do. I know you want the same, after all, why would we bother to go through all the trouble if we didn’t want to enjoy it. Being prepared ahead of time will help you enjoy the time you spend with your loved ones in the beautiful locations that you choose.
Embrace the Adventure!
While chronic illness may add an extra layer of planning, it doesn’t have to stop you from exploring the world. By following these travel hacks and prioritizing your well-being, you can embark on adventures that create lasting memories. Remember, the most important souvenir you bring back is the joy of experiencing new places and cultures – and the knowledge that you conquered your travel fears. So, pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and get ready for your next epic adventure!
BONUS:
Check out this list of travel sites that can help with travel for those with chronic illnesses
- Anywhere Everywhere Travel is run by my friend Chelsea McClintock. She specializes in creating the vacation of your dreams and will be able to help you with any accessibility needs.
- Positively Chronic Travel has some great resources for those of us with invisible illnesses
- The Medic Alert Foundation has some great tips and resources for those with chronic illnesses
