Planning a Vacation When You Have a Long-Term Health Condition

Everyone deserves a vacation now and again, but if you suffer from a long-term health condition after a horrible accident, you may find it difficult to plan a trip away. Unless you’ve specifically been told by your doctor to avoid traveling, there should be a way for you to enjoy your vacation, so here are a few tips to plan a trip away.

Get insured

One thing that can put people with long-term conditions off traveling is insurance. After all, health insurance is complex enough at home, never mind having to negotiate the overseas healthcare systems. It’s important to find a company that offers travel insurance for people with pre-existing conditions, and to see what your insurance covers when you travel. Generally, you’ll only be covered for accidents or injuries that occur during the trip, so find a policy that’ll cover you if you may need an emergency doctor’s appointment during your vacation.

Pack carefully

You should always carry prescription medications in your carry-on luggage, making sure they’re clearly labeled. If you take something in liquid form and you need a bottle over 100ml, you may need a doctor’s note to get it through security. Never put your medications in your checked luggage, as they can get lost a lot more easily.

If you need any other items because of your condition, from inhalers to dressings, you’ll need to pack them. When you take a long vacation, it can be hard to fit everything in, so find out whether they’re easy to obtain in pharmacies locally.

Check access

If you have mobility issues due to your condition, you’ll need to check you can physically get around. Most hotel websites have information about lifts and wheelchair access, while reviews on sites like Tripadvisor are full of useful information about walking distances and terrain. If you think you’ll struggle to walk, it may be worth buying a Zoomer Chair for occasional use, as this mobility chair is foldable and easy to use.

Consider the best type of vacation

You know your body and what you are capable of doing best, so it’s important to choose vacations that will accommodate your condition. For example, some people with health conditions that limit their mobility or leave them tired might prefer a relaxing cruise or beach holiday, as they can go back to their room and relax whenever they like. While the idea of a fast-paced city break may appeal, consider whether it’ll be too much for you. 

Unsure about anything? Speak to your doctor

If you’re planning to go away, but not quite sure whether your condition will get in the way of flying or certain activities, then it’s worth consulting your doctor first. Most of the time, you’ll be good to go, but they may have specific advice or want to tweak your prescriptions before you head off.

Having a long-term health condition shouldn’t mean having to give up the things you love, so if travel is your passion, you should enjoy your vacation, even if you’re traveling with kids.