Living with chronic pain can make everything harder. Daily tasks, working, personal hygiene, traveling, and so much more. But don’t let the pain get in the way of traveling the world and going on adventures.
Flare-ups can happen at any moment and so traveling can require a little extra planning. Okay, maybe a lot of extra planning!
Here is a list of tips and tricks to help you plan your next trip if you suffer from chronic pain.
1. Pack Lightly
Only pack what you can carry. Find a comfortable tote as a carry-on/purse and check the rest. Make sure your suitcase has wheels and is easy to get around airports.
2. Carry medications & print outs that come with prescriptions
Always make sure to have your medications in your carry-on. Sometimes checked luggage gets lost and you don’t want to be stuck without. Also, make sure to print out the details in-case you get questioned at customs. It will also help you out if you need to speak with a pharmacist in a different country.
3. Don’t plan too many things
You don’t want to overdo yourself on day 1. It is important to make time to rest so you can enjoy the whole trip.
4. Have an “emergency kit”
Include all pain relief pills or gels. Also, include anything else that helps to relieve pain.
5. Bring comfortable walking shoes
It’s better to be comfortable than cute! You don’t want to be walking around and get sore and tired feet. As if people who suffer from chronic pain need more things to worry about.
6. Get travel insurance
If you are going to a foreign country, it is important to get a travel insurance policy. It will help protect against the unexpected and you will not have to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses.
7. Bring a reusable water bottle
It is important to stay hydrated but also have something so you can gulp a pill down with. Traveling can dehydrate the body and make your symptoms worse. Make sure to drink plenty of water!
8. Use a wheelchair
When purchasing your ticket, you can reserve a free wheelchair service. They will wheel you through TSA through to the gate. It can be a great option if your body can’t handle walking or standing still in lines.
9. Pay extra for a direct flight (if possible)
Skip deboarding, walking to a new gate, waiting, and re-boarding. Just budget to fly direct. It will be quicker and take a lot of stress off.
10. Make yourself as comfortable as possible during the flight
Book your ticket early and select a seat that is most comfortable. Some people prefer the window so they can lean up against the side but some prefer the aisle seat so they have easier access to the bathroom. Bring a neck pillow, blanket, and jacket. Also, wear comfortable clothing.