TRAVEL // Travelling: A guide for those with chronic illness and anxiety.
Travelling has always been something I enjoyed to do. Even though it had some bad memories attached, I didn’t let it hold me back. I got back on the horse and didn’t feel afraid of being away from home. There were girls holidays in Europe, long haul trips to the USA and South Africa and many weekend breaks in the UK and abroad.
But since my most recent episode of depression and my newer diagnosis of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, the thought of being away from home, brought with it much anxiety. Anxiety that I wouldn’t make it physically and anxiety about being away from home.
But, I’m pleased to say that only a few weeks ago, I travelled to Spain with my family. The holiday was booked over a year ago. But honestly, up until March, there was no way I would have made it. I was housebound and bed bound for much of the past 6 months. So my family were prepared to forego the holiday, just so that they didn’t have to leave me home alone.
Thankfully, due mainly to new medication and some mindful techniques (I’ll do a separate post about this), my health improved so much, that I was actually excited about the trip.
And the good news is, I made it! And not only did I make it, I loved it! I couldn’t have got there without my loved ones and they were aware of the restrictions on me. But overall it was a huge step to take. Considering I’d been so closeted and restricted in every way.
But enough of the chit chat. Today I want to give you some points to consider and some steps to take, if you’re thinking of traveling any time soon and you’re suffering mentally or physically. I am fully aware that if you’re suffering fibromyalgia or CFS then travelling may not be an option. But if you do get stronger, then a change of scenery, good company, good food and just being away from home, could be enough. This way you’re out of the norms but not pushing yourself too far. Pick your destination carefully and if feel you could make a trip, then follow these steps . Hopefully this will help you to get on that holiday, or make that weekend away. Because I can honestly say it’s been the tonic to move me forward.
Here are my top 20 tips for making a trip away:
Destination: The choice of destination is key. Be selective of where you travel to. There are some basic questions you need to ask yourself: How far away are you traveling and what will be the mode of transport? – Is it plane, train or car? – you need to know this because if you have mobility problems then knowing how long it will take to get from A to B is important. Being in the same position for too long may cause pain. Traveling for too long will cause extreme fatigue. You may have anxiety about flying – so consider a local break that just gets you away. It may even be enough to start with a few nights in a local hotel.
Travel companions: Who are you travelling with? Do they understand your condition and limitations? Is there someone to help you? If you have mobility and strength limitations and suffer from fatigue, then I really wouldn’t recommend traveling alone. Have someone with you that you trust completely and they have full awareness of your conditions. You don’t really want to travel with strangers if you can avoid it, as you need to have full confidence in those around you. You need to know they can offer help and not put you in difficult situations where you won’t be able to manage.
Weather: if you’re traveling in the UK, then you can pretty much be assured that temperatures won’t get sky high. But check weather forecasts. Temperature is important as extreme heat and cold can affect your body and flare fibromyalgia. My advice is travel in cooler months. Heat is exhausting. If you do want to go abroad then look for somewhere with medium temperatures. Or consider traveling at cooler times of the year. When I travelled to Spain I knew the temperatures were not too high. I avoided the high sun and laying out, but the warmth and sunshine were a definite tonic, so it can be done.
Terrain: Is the terrain flat? If walking is difficult then you need to do your research. You do not want to be in the heat and climbing hilly ground. Even in the UK, there are locations with difficult terrain. Consider recommendations for flatter areas.
Accommodation: Is the accommodation easily accessible? Will you be on the ground floor? Or will you have a lot of stairs to climb? All these things are important. Ideally look for accommodation that is mobility friendly. A room on the ground floor is ideal. If you’re staying in a hotel then check they have a lift. You do not want to be carrying yourself and your luggage up flights of awkward stairs. You will be exhausted before you start.
Amenities: How far away are the shops/restaurants/beach/pool/bars? Make sure if you can, that the facilities and amenities are close by. So look to make sure your accommodation is at least as close as you are comfortable with walking.
Airport assistance: If you are going abroad by flight, then you have the option of getting airport assistance. For the last two trips I’ve taken I’ve had airport assistance. It’s been a life saver. You register when you book your flight. Then on arrival you book in at the desk and they ask you a few questions – depending on the airport size and how familiar you are, you may be strong enough to go through security unaided. But if it’s a long way, then a wheelchair is provided and you are taken through security and passport control via a separate gate. They will get you to the plane with minimal fuss and without exhausting yourself. It’s so important as this means you can save energy for when you arrive on the other side. I’ve travelled without assistance and found that I’m exhausted by the time I hit the plane. This exhaustion carries on when you arrive, and it may take days to recover. So if there is the option of assistance, then my advice is take it!
Organisation: Once you’ve decided on your destination, mode of transport and travel companions, then the next thing is to get things organised. Make a list of all you need and all you need to do. Having things spinning around in your head will not help your anxiety. So make a list.
Medical: Speak to your doctor ahead of time to discuss your plans. If you take medication, can you manage it whilst you’re away? Make sure you have a full supply. Put medication in a bag that stays on your person. You don’t want to be without it if luggage is lost. Take blister packs through security of you’re travelling by plane. Single tablets could be confiscated. What other medical supplies do you need? Do you use creams or gels for pain? Joint supports? Flight socks for swelling? Neck support, heat pads.
Mobility devices: Do you need a mobility device? If you’ve got mobility problems then something as simple as a hand held stick can help you. If your mobility is severely impaired then consider a wheelchair or scooter. You can usually hire them. So consider taking one of with you. It may not be ideal, but if you really want to make a trip then this could be the answer. I personally didn’t need one for this trip. I was stronger and comfortable with the distances. I did have a stick I could use if I needed it.
Luggage: Pick your luggage carefully. If you’re using a case then ask yourself how heavy is it? Does it have wheels and can you manage it with ease? If you’re taking a hand held weekend bag, I would urge you to swap it out for a case. Something with wheels is key if you’re responsible for transporting it. Lifting heavy bags is a no-no. If you need hand luggage, then again opt for something smaller and lighter. In years gone by, my hand bags were as big as me! No one loved a large tote more than I did, but now that I’m physically limited, I travel as light as possible with smaller bags or cross body bags. This way there is little impact on your arms and shoulders.
Hand Luggage: Use something that’s not too heavy. Ideas to take with you:
- A soft scarf or pashmina. Great for cwtching up and will keep you warm if you get cold, especially on flights.
- A neck pillow – they are amazing to support sore necks.
- Stress less fragrance. I love, This Works Stress Less Rollerball. Its great if you start get anxious.
- Water.
- Something to Read.
- Money. Ticket. Passport – the usual important stuff
- Flight socks
- Tissues
Clothing: Consider outfit choices; comfort and practicality as well as fashion and looking good. You need to be able to walk without putting additional strain on your body. If you’re in the UK then weather can change fast. Ideally you need to take layers. This way you can bundle up or strip down, depending on the weather. Just make sure you’re comfortable and at ease with whatever you’re taking. You don’t want to be too hot or too cold. Pack as light as you can. Good rule of thumb is three tops to every one bottom. Take things that are appropriate for the climate and any activity that you might envisage yourself doing; on the beach, looking in shops, eating and drinking.
Comfort and reassurance: This is really important for me. It made all the difference for my latest trip. Take something that comforts you. A soft blanket, your pillow, room spray, candles. If they comfort you at home, take them with you. All make you feel more at home in new places.
Pack in stages: Get organised well ahead of time. If you’re organised you can ensure that you still make the trip even if you have bad days leading up to it. You can’t afford to leave it to the last minute.
Pacing: Pace yourself when you get there. Although you are in a new location, you still need to prioritise how you use your energy. Pacing yourself is key. You may not get out every day, so if you are inside, take things to entertain you; books, DVDs, puzzles. Also try to enjoy the new surroundings and take time to relax and re energise.
Food and drink: Holidays are usually a time for drinking and eating a lot. And you should enjoy it. But just bear in mind that too much of the wrong food or too much alcohol can make you feel unwell. Consider your food and drink choices. Although on holiday, you still need to be mindful on what you consume as this will affect you mentally and physically. If you stick to a limited diet at home, then I recommend you try to stick with it as much as you can, whilst you’re away. Take healthy snacks with you.
Use well-being techniques: If you are used to taking time out to rest or time to meditate or time to breathe, then continue to do these things whilst you are away. Be as mindful as you can, be present in the moment and keep a check on your worrying. Its easier said than done, but by being in the present moment,rather than working yourself up about a situation, you will find joy in the moment.
Try new things: This might sound like an unusual one. But if you suffer anxiety in any way, you may be used to living a limited life. I know I did. But even if you try one new thing, or one new experience, you will be amazed by yourself and also the confidence it gives you. You do not have to do anything ridiculous – Im not talking about doing a sky dive, but if there are some small things that bring you anxiety at home, then try to push your boundary a little. It could really help to make you feel happy, excited and to have faith in yourself again. And there is nothing like proving to yourself that you can do something that you had been afraid of. There is no feeling like it.
Enjoy!: A lot of this may seem like common sense, but it really does make the difference between a difficult and wonderful trip. So most importantly, try and enjoy the break. If you follow these tips and plan everything out, then there is more chance of you making it, and feeling well.
Important
I want to add, that if you’re currently in the midst of a fibromyalgia flare or chronic fatigue is at its worst, then traveling is likely not going to happen just yet. But, when and if things improve, and you feel stronger, then you may find you want to try. So start small. One night away in your own city, can bring light relief.
Onwards my loves, Kiki xox
‘You are. Smart, you are kind, you are beautiful and you are important’ Kiki xo
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