Travelling can be stressful for everyone, but when you’re packing a chronic illness with you too there’s so much you need to consider before you’ve even left. Most of us have somewhere to go over the next few months whether that’s abroad or a staycation I’ve figured out ways to prep to avoid letting the trip become a major Pain.inthe.Head!!
Travelling with hidden illness
Last year for the first time I was travelling abroad, and hidden illnesses like intracranial hypertension and hemiplegic migraine, threw all kinds of twists and turns, spanners and hammers in the works. I’m notorious for playing lead role in the drama of life but even for me, the idea of being hoisted off someone’s shoulder down a plane aisle is not the glamorous way I want to start exploring Paris! For this very reason I’ve coined together 6 tips to prep like a boss and avoid making the same mistakes as me!
6 Tips for Travelling like a Boss when you’re winning the Chronic Illness Game.
Get prepped for the travel
Notify the airline prior! They will assist you in every way but ONLY IF YOU ASK! Most airports are offering the sunflower lanyard for those with hidden disabilities, but they need prior warning too. I’d suggest an additional personal medical card in your medication bag
Consider triggers
At the time, it should have been more obvious to me that sleep deprivation is a major trigger for my conditions. This didn’t work well with a 4am flight as I was truly on break before I even checked in. Give yourself a fighting chance and plan around your worst times so you can recover at the hotel if necessary.
Pick a location that you are familiar with
If not, one that is easy to navigate quickly. I’d avoid the chaos of Amsterdam streets unless I was with a super experienced traveller who can avoid causing a 20-bike pile up.
Be honest and real with yourself
Do not feel guilty for telling others what you can and can’t manage. I used to avoid everything and flipped the switch completely and tend to burn out! Work out how many active and non-active days you would be having at home and make sure it matches closely consider the energy needed to actually travel too!
Consider a #PainPouch
Pack your meds, insurance documents, extra meds for any upset tums, cuts or bleeds. Hand warmers or fans. Medical info and emergency numbers. Basically, anything you would need at home but more! If you want to make a statement a bum bag works a charm.
Enjoy!
Life is for living. You are choosing to holiday because you either need to unwind or enjoy the beauty of a new adventure and see what the world has to offer. Go in with a strong and positive mindset. Yes; it is a hard pill to swallow that you will have to actively TRY to manage something that was previously so easy, but if you choose to opt out without even trying then you are letting your struggles win.
