Summer is officially here, and while I'm trying to protect myself from the sun, just about everyone I know is talking about planning a trip. If you read my writing, you know I'm fascinated by vacations and have learned a lot over the past 20 years about traveling with a chronic illness. If you're planning a trip, now is the perfect time to educate yourself before embarking on your adventure.
I recently had the opportunity to take my first Caribbean cruise with Virgin Voyages. It was during a heatwave of summer, so I had to be especially careful with the sun and heat – two of my biggest triggers for lupus attacks.
I took my time packing, making sure to bring ice packs, a long-brimmed hat with UV protection, and a ThermApparel cooling vest. The vest, which hides under most clothing, was made to keep people with multiple sclerosis cool, but it's useful for many people with chronic illnesses that make it hard to regulate their body temperature. During the summer, this item is one of the handy items to have on hand. I also carry a small umbrella to protect myself from the rain and sun's rays.
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Preparation is paramount
View of the Bahamas from the balcony of the boat. (Photo by Marisa Zeppieri)
Before you pack what you need, it's important to think about what you're packing. Will you travel by plane or car? Will you travel with air conditioning, heating, or both? How much luggage can you realistically carry or push if your travel day falls on a bad pain day or during a pain flare-up?
These days I use lightweight suitcases with wheels and lots of storage space, but I also like backpacks and carry-on bags with wheels for extra organization.
Due to past travel chaos and lost luggage experiences, I always carry medications and supplements in my backpack or carry-on (since I often don't leave either of those in sight) and emergency items in my checked luggage. Additionally, I always wear comfortable clothes and flat shoes in case my other luggage gets lost or delayed. I like to wear stretchy rompers or jumpsuits, and sandals or converse on my feet.
Traveling with a chronic illness can seem daunting. I didn't travel for years after I was diagnosed with lupus. I'm an adventurer at heart, but the thought of what I'd need to pack, how I'd feel, how much I could realistically enjoy, and whether I'd be a nuisance to my fellow travelers can be intimidating. But as someone who's taken dozens of trips over the past decade, I encourage you to start small and find ways to explore and travel while still managing your health.
Consider these aspects before any big adventure.
1. Preparing Ahead for Foodies: Are you on a diet with dietary restrictions? Whether you're road tripping, jet-setting internationally, or cruising, if you have food allergies or special dietary restrictions, you'll need to take steps before you travel.
When I go to a new place, I make a map out safe restaurants and supermarkets where I can shop. My most recent trip was on a cruise ship, so I contacted them in advance to discuss my needs. The staff was very kind and allowed me to put a small cooler in my checked luggage, which contained ice packs and safe foods to enjoy on the ship.
2. Plan for medical assistance: It is always reassuring to know in advance where the nearest emergency clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies are. I usually print the list or save it on my phone and share it with the people I am traveling with.
3. Plan for rest and relaxation: It took me a while to realize that I needed to plan for rest before, during and after my trip.
For me, the quickest way to trigger an attack is to push myself and not get enough sleep. I try to pack a few days in advance and get some extra rest the day before I travel. I also plan a day or two of not doing much while I'm traveling (sleeping, reading, binge-watching a movie), and then a day or two of rest when I get home to let my body recover.
Remember, with the right preparation, you can explore the world on your own terms. Happy travels, intrepid traveller!
Note: Lupus News Today is a website that provides news and information about the disease only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Opinions expressed in this column are not those of Lupus News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion on issues related to lupus.
