©️Chroniclesofpain

Travel 101

Living with a chronic illness definitely comes with its own set of challenges, and travelling is often near the top of the list. 

Even under the best of circumstances,  travelling can be difficult. Packing, lugging suitcases, dealing with security.... the list goes on.

Doing this all with a chronic illness just increases the difficulty level. Now you have to add ensuring that you have all your regular medication, have to plan for unexpected emergencies, there are a lot of things to take into account. 
It can be tough to know what you should pack when you’re dealing with issues like chronic pain, stomach issues, fatigue, joint pain or unpredictable flares. 

In short, travelling with a chronic illness is not fun. Whether taking a short road trip or heading on a long flight. 
 

But that doesn’t mean we should let it stop us from travelling around the world!
With my tips I can help you to make your trip a succes. 

Packing list

If you’re like me one of the many people living with a chronic illness, you know that preparing and packing your chronic illness travel essentials is key to having a successful trip, regardless of where you’re going. Below me keys for a successful trip:


**What to Pack:**

Here's my "must haves" packing list. Feel free to add or change according to your preferences: 


  • Sufficient supply of medications (with extra in case of delays or loss)
  • Prescription medications in their original containers
  • Copies of your prescriptions and a list of your medications and dosages
  • Medical alert bracelet or necklace
  • Health insurance information and a list of emergency contacts
  • Doctor's contact information
  • Travel pillow 
  • Sleep mask
  • Earloops and ANC headphones 
  • Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for the climate and activities
  • Variety of Healthy snacks and any necessary dietary supplements
  • Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
  • Travel-sized first aid flare-up kit
  • Travel-sized first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, etc.
  • Travel heating devices (you can find my favorites in my shop)
  • Ice spray for pain relief (I still didn't find a good travel icepack, so this is my semi-good alternative)
  • Travel adaptor 
  • Several powerbanks
  • Portable charger for your electronic devices
  • Any assistive devices or mobility aids you may require


**What to Prepare:**

To make sure that you're trip is as safe and enjoyable as possible I always make sure to prepare these things beforehand:

  • Research healthcare facilities at your destination and identify hospitals or clinics that can address your specific needs (has been more than once a lifesaver for me)
  • Notify your airline or transportation provider of any special requirements or accommodations you may need
  • Plan your itinerary with built-in rest periods and allow for flexibility in case you need to modify your plans due to health reasons
  • Pack a detailed health history summary including your medical conditions, past surgeries, allergies, and current medications
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions and provides medical evacuation coverage if needed
  • Consult with your healthcare provider before your trip to ensure you are medically fit to travel and discuss any precautions or special considerations
  • Stay hydrated during your journey and take frequent breaks to prevent fatigue or exacerbation of symptoms
  • Keep essential medication and supplies easily accessible during travel, such as in your carry-on bag
  • Stay informed about local health hazards or disease outbreaks at your destination and take necessary precautions
  • Have a plan in place for managing your condition while away from home, including how to access medical care if needed

Travelling with controlled medication

Travelling with medication and medical devices overseas can be difficult, especially when you travel with controlled substances, there are a few things you have to keep in mind. Be aware that each country regulates this matter differently. This means that the legislation may differ greatly from country to country.


1. Check if you're allowed to travel with your medication to your desired country (Some medication could be illegal in your destination).

Check here the regulations for your destination. 


2. Have the controlled drugs with the pertaining official travel documents in your hand luggage.
In general:

  • A medical prescription from a licensed doctor (at least translated in English)
  • The Qualitative and quantitative doses of the controlled substances you need for the pertaining time
  • A certificate shall be valid for a maximum period of 30-90 days (depends on the country of destination) 

      ○ certificate shall be issued or    .........authenticated by the competent .........authorities of the country of origin 
.........(e.g. health ministry) on the basis of a .........medical prescription

3. Have your medical information with you (if you need to see a doctor or have to go in a hospital at your destination)


And don't forget to pack enough medication (including for side effects and flare-ups) to stay ok on your trip.