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
-
See your healthcare provider at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.
-
Get written instructions for how to handle problems while you are away.
-
If you are crossing time zones, ask how to take your medicines on schedule.
-
Ask about your specific travel concerns. Take notes or ask a loved one to do it.
-
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
-
Try to travel off-season, when there are fewer people. Fewer crowds can mean less
stress for you.
-
Think about what times of day you feel your best and when you need to take medicine.
-
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.
-
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
-
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.
-
Pack your medicines in your carry-on luggage. Keep them in their original containers.
-
Bring extra written prescriptions. This is in case of emergency or in case your medicines
get lost.
-
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
-
Pack light and take only what is really needed.
-
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
-
Check if your health insurance covers medical care during travel. If not, consider
getting a travel insurance policy that covers healthcare and emergency evacuation.
-
Bring a copy of your health insurance’s out-of-area care policy and your health or
travel insurance cards.
-
Have a plan to get care during your travels, in case you need it.
Oxygen
-
Get the prescription for your oxygen needs in writing.
-
Make a plan for getting oxygen at your destination.
-
Arrange for supplemental oxygen in advance with your airline. Ask about costs, paperwork,
and layovers.
Steer clear of smokers
Prepare for an emergency