You may want to plan ahead for traveling with multiple sclerosis (MS). This can include calling travel companies or airports, exploring mobility options, and how you pack and decide on travel plans.
Traveling can be challenging for just about anyone, but throw in MS and all its baggage, and you can end up exhausted and stressed out before ever even reaching your destination.
But with some pre-work and preparation, you can set yourself up for a fun and relaxing trip without MS being as much on your mind.
Pick your mode of transportation
Depending on your destination, you may have a few alternatives to consider when determining how to get there.
Sitting in a vehicle — or being confined to a train or airplane seat — for several hours may not work as well for people with MS.
That might mean adjusting your preferred mode of transportation. You might even break up the trip, where possible, to ensure shorter seating times or periods of time where you’re in a stretch of travel.
Buses, trains, or airplanes could mean planning for breaks from sitting or staying in one place, and also making sure you can get enough rest and sleep.
People with MS may experience fatigue more frequently, which could affect travel arrangements if that involves sitting or standing in a place for too long.
You might book specific sections or types of seating, to allow for standing or walking as needed and rest for any fatigue you might experience.
Restroom access may also be a consideration. Ensure seats are close enough to restrooms in case of urgent needs.
Try to keep in mind what will work best for you and your MS as you make your decision.
Communicate with travel agents
If you’re flying and need a wheelchair, contact representatives in the weeks before the trip and let them know what you need.
You may try calling immediately after booking a trip, whether to a train service or car rental company, a specific airline, or the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Many companies and governmental agencies have specific agents who can assist you.
For example, for air travel, you may contact the TSA’s passenger support specialists for help coordinating aspects of your airport travel. This might include someone meeting you at a gate to help with boarding a plane or offering tips and instructions on navigating airport security.
Some people with MS may choose to request wheelchair access in their travels to help them move quickly through locations to where they need to be on time.
Get your medications in order
Ensure you have enough on hand; if not, order what’s needed. If you’re traveling for an extended period, finding a way to get refills on the road might be necessary.
Call your insurance company to find out your policy about getting medication while away from home.
People with MS (and other health conditions) may find it helpful to pack medications in carry-ons rather than in checked luggage, where you could experience delays or lost bags.
Having quick and easy access to medications while you’re on the plane and afterward can be important for people traveling with health issues like MS.
For longer trips to a specific location, you may opt to research the address and ship any needed MS-related supplies or medications in advance.
This could ensure they’re there when you arrive so that you don’t have to worry as much about packing them while traveling or immediately finding a pharmacy.
Know where to get medical care while traveling
We all hope to not have a medical emergency while traveling, but the random and unpredictable nature of MS makes us a bit more susceptible to this type of situation.
Doing a bit of prep (and checking in with your doctor, insurance company, and facilities located where you’ll be traveling) can go a long way in reducing the stress of worrying about the “what ifs.”
This can prove to be invaluable should the worst-case scenario arise.
You may also be able to find MS-specific care or healthcare professionals in those locations you’ll be visiting, especially if it’s a longer period of time.
Know your food and beverage limits
People with MS may have difficulty swallowing and chewing, which can impact both eating and drinking when traveling.
One option is to use a thickener to help swallow liquids, which can be packed and carried when traveling. People with MS can pack the type of thickener that they typically use when not traveling.
Some people may also request special foods and drinks, to accommodate difficulties with chewing or swallowing.
Pack appropriate clothing and footwear
In the days before your trip, check a weather site for the forecast and plan accordingly.
You’ll also likely want to consider appropriate clothing and footwear for your trip, depending on the weather and the likelihood of how much you may be walking.
Comfort is key.
This may include wearing sweatpants, flip-flops, or lighter clothing if you’re traveling by plane, train, boat, or vehicle. You may also want to consider dressing in layers and having an easy-zip sweatshirt or top shirt that you can take off or put back on if the temperature changes.
Other things you may consider:
- a cane or walker if you use one
- an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat to stave off the sun
- extra socks, which can be good for backups but could also help pad your feet for longer walks or times on your feet
- water shoes, even if you don’t plan to go in the water; might help navigate uneven or rocky, shell-covered areas such as beaches or riversides
- cooling towels to help in any situation where you might overheat
Learn more about how MS may affect your feet and legs and how you can address this concern.
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