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Traveling with a Chronic Condition
Trips need advance planning. This is so you can be comfortable and lower your risk that your health condition gets worse while you are away. Traveling can be a challenge, but it can be done. Pace yourself. Schedule even more rest than usual. And use this checklist to create a smart travel plan for a safe and enjoyable trip. Bon voyage!
Talk with your healthcare providers
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See your healthcare provider at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.
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Get written instructions for how to handle problems while you are away.
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If you are crossing time zones, ask how to take your medicines on schedule.
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Ask about your specific travel concerns. Take notes or ask a loved one to do it.
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Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your routine vaccines. You may need additional vaccines depending on where you are traveling. Ask your healthcare provider which vaccines you need.
Plan ahead
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Try to travel off-season, when there are fewer people. Fewer crowds can mean less stress for you.
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Think about what times of day you feel your best and when you need to take medicine.
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If you will be flying, call the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) helpline (855-787-2227) at least 72 hours before your flight. The TSA can give information on how to prepare for airport security screening with respect to a particular disability or medical condition.
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If your condition is unstable, bring a letter from your healthcare provider explaining the typical treatment plan . This will be helpful if you need to make a visit to an emergency room.
Prevent medicine mishaps
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Do you have enough medicine? Do you have extra for any unplanned delays? Take enough medicine for your length of stay and travel time, and at least 3 extra days of medicine for emergency delays.
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Pack your medicines in your carry-on luggage. Keep them in their original containers.
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Bring extra written prescriptions. This is in case of emergency or in case your medicines get lost.
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If you're traveling internationally, check with the embassy of the destination country about your medicines. Some medicines (like narcotics and psychotropic medicines) may not be allowed in the country.
Pack wisely
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Pack light and take only what is really needed.
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Carry your healthcare providers’ contact information. Carry a list of medicines and a brief health history with you at all times. Give a copy to a person traveling with you.
Health insurance
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Check if your health insurance covers medical care during travel. If not, consider getting a travel insurance policy that covers healthcare and emergency evacuation.
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Bring a copy of your health insurance’s out-of-area care policy and your health or travel insurance cards.
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Have a plan to get care during your travels, in case you need it.
Oxygen
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Get the prescription for your oxygen needs in writing.
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Make a plan for getting oxygen at your destination.
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Arrange for supplemental oxygen in advance with your airline. Ask about costs, paperwork, and layovers.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Rita Sather RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2023
© 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.