With planning and forethought, a vacation doesn't have to be a "bad idea" for a person with arthritis.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Variable
Here's How:
- Talk to your doctor about your travel plans and seek his/her advice.
- Make your reservations early to assure your needs will be met.
- When traveling by air, book non-stop flights if possible or allow ample time between connecting flights.
- Choose a seat on the airplane which has extra leg room.
- If walking is a problem, request a wheelchair when booking the flight.
- Keep medications and important items in a light carry-on bag.
- Use the restroom in the terminal before boarding the plane.
- Take advantage of pre-boarding for your flight so you don't have to climb over other people to get into your seat.
- When booking a hotel room, choose a handicapped access room or a room close to the elevator.
- Use valet parking whenever available or necessary.
- If traveling by car, take frequent rest stops to minimize stiffness.
- Use lightweight luggage on wheels.
- Pack light and remember any assistive equipment you might need.
- Pack extra medications, copies of your prescriptions, your doctor's name and phone number, and a summary of your medical history in preparation for delays or emergencies.
Tips:
- Put aside your reluctance and fear of traveling.
- It helps to have someone accompany you instead of traveling alone.
- Take short trips at first and see how you manage.
