Traveling with a neurological condition: 8 tips for a smoother trip

Variety is the spice of life, and traveling is a great way to change your environment and experience something new.

Neurological conditions don’t have to hold you back from experiencing life. Trips just require a little more advanced planning.

Navigating long vehicle rides, airports, trains and ships, not to mention hotels or tour companies, might seem daunting when you’re worried about your ability to travel far from home. That’s where pre-planning comes in.

“You can certainly travel and explore the world with a neurological condition. You just need to do some advance planning,” said Asad Rehman, DO, a neurologist affiliated with Endeavor Health. “Check in with your doctor about your plans, as your doctor can provide important steps to take before you take your trip.”

Keep these tips in mind when planning your trip:

1. Bring your medical file. This includes documents with an overview of your medical history, physician notes, lab charts, scans, current prescriptions, a description of your condition, medical supplies you carry, and your limitations signed by your doctor.
   “It’s a lot of paperwork, but it might be best to bring it in a tabbed file folder instead of digitally in case you need to visit a hospital on your trip,” Dr. Rehman said.
2. Confirm disability services before you travel. Collect letters or emails from hotels, airlines, cruises, cab companies, and recreation sites that confirm their disability services. These records can help you get the services you need if what was promised isn’t available when you arrive.
3. Maintain your medication schedule. While summer can be a more laid-back season, it’s not the time to let your medication routine fall apart. If your daily plans are different because of a trip, set a reminder on your phone if needed to ensure you take medication on time.
   “It may be helpful for patients to use a pillbox while traveling to help them keep track of their medication and remove the mental hassle, as they may be crossing different time zones,” Dr. Rehman said.
4. Travel with a friend. Not only is it fun to travel with friends or family, it’s good to have someone on the trip who can help with unanticipated needs.
5. Talk to travel personnel. Let flight attendants, train or bus personnel know about your needs when you board. Advocate for yourself.
6. Build in extra time and take breaks. Make sure you allow more than the recommended amount of time for traveling to allow for rest breaks and time to secure a wheelchair if needed or to stow one on an airplane.
7. Plan ways to stay cool. Heat intolerance is a common symptom of conditions including MS, diabetes, migraine disease, Parkinson’s disease and fibromyalgia. Be sure to stay hydrated and try to schedule activities before and after peak sunlight hours.
8. Prioritize sleep. If you’re traveling to a different time zone, begin adjusting your sleep schedule three days before you leave. Bring sleep aids like noise-cancelling headphones and sleep masks to help you rest.
   “Sleep is an important reset, especially when traveling,” Dr. Rehman said. “Getting enough sleep can help prevent flare-ups and fatigue.”

Talk to your doctor before you travel to gather advice and recommendations specific to your personal health.