Traveling is such a love language for me. I thrive on new adventures and am always seeking to discover new corners of the world. Traveling with a chronic illness can seem like a challenge. Don’t let it stop you from frolicking across all of the 7 continents and seeing the wonders of the world. It is true that traveling with chronic illness can be daunting, but it is absolutely possible! In fact, I argue that it is necessary. It is so easy to get into a pattern of self-pity and discouragement when struggling with health issues. In my experience, traveling breaks this pattern. It frees your mind from focusing inward and forces you to focus outward. You have the chance to learn about another culture and become amazed at the food, people, and nature.
Here are a few tips I have as begin planning for your next trip:
Two words: aisle seat
If your travel includes hopping on a plane, do your best to select an aisle seat when purchasing your ticket. While the window seat can be appealing with a view of take-off and landing, the aisle seat is truly the best. There is nothing more awkward than stepping over your other two seatmates multiple times throughout the flight to go to the restroom.
Minimize stress
Any kind of travel, whether for work or vacation, can be stressful, both physically and mentally. Since stress is a leading trigger for a flare-up, it is important to ward it off when possible. Don’t let stress ruin your trip- catch it before it manifests itself in your body. Here are a few ways you can manage your stress:
- Meditate for a few minutes each day
- Take several slow, deep breaths
- Read a favorite book
- Go for a walk outside
Remember your records
Whether your trip is overnight or long term, you need to keep a copy of your medical records with you. Many hospitals now allow you access to medical records through their app. When living in Spain, I was put in the hospital for an Ulcerative Colitis flare-up. While they didn’t speak English, my records saved a lot of time and frustration trying to explain my condition.
Don’t forget your medication
This tip is pretty self-explanatory. Make sure to pack enough of medication to last for the duration of the trip. It is even a good idea to pack a few extra days’ worth of medication, just in case.
Meal prep ahead of time
Take a little time before your trip to think through the meal situations throughout your trip. Will your hotel have a continental breakfast? Are you going to a developing country that may have food that is disagreeable with your condition? Will you have access to a kitchen? If there are any meal situations that you feel uncertain about, pack food that you know works well for you. Find a local grocery store and stock up on nutrient-dense food that you can either cook or carry on-the-go.
Combat travel sickness
Traveling can really take a toll on the body and lower the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to sickness. Here are a few ways you can keep your body running at its best while traveling with a chronic illness:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Eat nutrient-dense food
- Skip alcohol and coffee as these will dehydrate your body
- Take vitamins and minerals
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