The world is becoming far more accessible in this day and age, giving plenty of people the opportunity to travel and see everything this splendid planet has to offer.
While it used to be practically impossible to travel with a medical condition, it’s now easier than ever thanks to more understanding airlines and hotels, and a real focus on accessibility across the globe.
Having an underlying health condition shouldn’t hold you back from travelling. In fact, it’s good for your health to get out there and see the world!
However, there are a few things you’re going to need to consider before you pack your bags and jet off. Here are some of the best precautions to take when travelling with a medical condition.
PICK YOUR DESTINATION WISELY
If you have a medical condition, you might want to consider where you visit and what you’re going to be doing before booking a 7-night hike that might make you feel unwell.
As mentioned, lots of places are focusing on accessibility more and more, but that doesn’t mean that everywhere is going to be safe for those with a health condition.
For example, if you have breathing problems, you’ll probably want to stay away from heavily polluted cities – the majority of which are in India and China. If you require a wheelchair then you’ll want to avoid cities with cobbled streets and/or poor public transportation – Paris, for example, has very few wheelchair friendly metro stations.
There are plenty of places that are accessible, however, and it shouldn’t be hard to find somewhere perfect for you.
MAKE A PACKING LIST
While many of us make a packing list before we travel anyway, it’s important to be extra thorough if you have a medical condition.
What kind of medical supplies are you going to need to take with you? Always make sure you have more medication than you need, just in case any of it gets lost. You’ll also want to keep it all clearly labelled and take a doctor’s note with you to explain what it’s for. You may get stopped at customs if you’re taking a lot of medication, so plan ahead for this and have all the proof you need.
Consider what else you may need to take to ensure you feel comfortable, from travel pillows through to extra blankets.
RESEARCH THE AVAILABILITY OF HEALTHCARE
Before you set off on your travels, it’s essential to do some research into the healthcare options in the area:
- How good is the healthcare system?
- How far away is the nearest hospital from where you’re going to be staying?
- Are there any emergency numbers you need to save in your phone?
- Can you get a medical ID bracelet translated into the language of the country you’re visiting?
- How does paying for healthcare or medication work in that country?
Do your research and have a plan for any kind of situation that may arise. You’ll feel far more relaxed if you’ve done your homework before you jet off.
REMEMBER TO RELAX
Finally, this is supposed to be an incredible time, so don’t forget to relax! It can seem daunting when travelling with a medical condition but it doesn’t need to be. Make sure you’re looking after yourself, eating a balanced diet, and not trying to cram too many things into one day.
You’ll feel much better if you relax and enjoy the ride, as opposed to trying to squeeze every last drop out of the time you’re travelling. You also don’t want to put your health at risk by pushing too hard, either. Know your limits and don’t be afraid to take some time to just chill by the hotel pool, or take a nap. Your body and mind will thank you for it.
These are some of the best precautions to take when travelling with a medical condition, to ensure you make the most out of your time away!
Do you have any others to add to the list? Let me know in the comments.
