Tips for travel in chronic pain patients It can be very difficult for patients with chronic pain to travel even if trip is meant for fun! The physical and mental stress associated with travel can cause and/or worsen pain symptoms. Taking the time to plan and prepare for the journey can help ease travel anxiety and set the tone for a pleasant journey. A few tips to help make traveling more comfortable and less stressful include the following: Planning properly Proper planning of the journey ahead is essential for smooth journey. Travel details that should be known include the following: • Mode of transportation and directions • Times of arrival/departure • Detailed information on places that will be visited • Information about room, access to elevator, access to restrooms, etc. • Wheelchair access at airport It is important that you avoid the periods when flare ups of pain are known. You should avoid travelling during peak periods like long weekends, rainy seasons etc when crowds can become bothersome. Keep extra days in hand for rest after travelling. Tips for packing • Choose the right luggage Carry four-wheel luggage so that you do not have to lift it. Instead of pulling, push the luggage so that you do not injure shoulder. • Pack light Packing light is essential, especially if an individual does not have a travel companion. Lifting and carrying luggage can aggravate chronic pain. • Keep health information handy A brief medical history along with a list of current medications can be included in a wallet or carry-on bag. Keep contact details of you doctors in wallet so that in case of emergency they can be contacted. • Pack medications: Carry extra medications with you. Carry medications in the purse rather than luggage. Before travelling search nearby pharmacies at destination. • Carry comfort items: Carry heat pack, cool pack, small pillow, blanket during travel. • Pack healthy snacks and keep yourself hydrated During the trip Make sure you do not sit for long at a stretch. Take break every hour and just walk for couple of minutes so that the muscles are activated and blood flow is maintained. If you are travelling by bus or train, make sure you choose aisle seat so that stretching is possible. Carry books, headphones for listening to music for long journeys. If you have to lift the bags, make sure you lift them carefully. Arriving at the destination Arriving at the destination is exciting! To make the trip more enjoyable, it is important to ask for help when needed and take advantage of any amenities like wheelchair. maintain comfortable pace.