This was my first time to travel and have a real vacation since chronic illness slammed me 3.5 years ago. It also marked almost exactly one year of Lyme disease treatment. So it was a huge accomplishment for me! Yet because of chronic illness, traveling is different for me now. And it taught and reminded me of a number of things.
None of my findings are rocket science, just some reminders from a fellow chronic illness sufferer.
Ten things I learned from traveling with chronic illness:
1. Research! I did a ton of research before my trip, learning the public transportation options, travel routes, locations of different things I wanted to do, etc. I discussed possibilities with my traveling buddy and decided what the best options were, and created a potential travel agenda.
2. Don't travel alone. A friend traveled with me who knew and understood my limitations, which was huge. You need someone who will be of help to you, instead of pressuring you to do more than you can handle. Even if the person doesn't completely understand, talk about it a lot beforehand so it's not a pressure point during the trip.
3. Hold plans loosely. Being flexible and creating realistic expectations is one of the biggest challenges but perhaps most important. Creating an itinerary is important, but you may flare and need a nap when you'd rather be out and about. You may have to drop a long, busy day for something simple and close by. Weather may alter your plans. Holding plans loosely and being able to adjust helps keep your body from overreacting (and crashing) even more from the stress.
4. Expect things to take longer than expected. This point sounds redundant, but how often are we idealistic in how much we can push and how quickly we can do something? I forgot to factor in needing extra sleep from traveling, adjusting to a different time-zone, morning fatigue, and navigating a new place. I had to scratch a number of different things on my agenda I really wanted to see and do. So just plan lots of extra time, and don't worry if you can only do half of what you wanted. It's better than nothing!
5. Pack as lightly as possible. Prioritize health-related packing over style accessories. Make sure you have enough layers to deal with circulation issues or quickly changing weather. If you're flying, it's worth checking a bag so you don't have to drag as much weight around the airport, causing extra fatigue and pain.
6. Keep routines as much as possible. Don't just eat junk food because you're traveling or throw out your entire diet. Don't neglect supplements and medications. Find times to stretch, practice deep breathing, or take a nap. Those routines hugely impact your body's ability to remain stable as you face the stress of traveling. Don't stress if there are certain routines impossible to keep up with, but do what you can with your options.
7. Be prepared. On the opposite end of packing lightly, it's also important to consider the extra things you may need like supplements and medications. I brought more supplements and medications than makeup! Consider what food options you'll need, and perhaps pack those, especially if you're driving. I packed a number of Lara bars for quick protein options and ate green smoothies for breakfast to keep things easy and healthy. Additionally, think through travel necessities, such as water, gum, and medication for ear/head pressure if you fly, or a neck pillow if that helps you.
8. Drink water! Hydrating is critical when you're traveling. Pack a small, light water bottle that's easy to refill and force yourself to drink!
9. Pace yourself. Plan low-key activities and find ways to take breaks. Is your endurance limited? Does fatigue or pain slam you out of the blue? Make sure you don't push yourself to crashing point by planning low-key activities. Maybe you can drive around somewhere instead of walking. Perhaps a museum will cause sensory overload, but a park visit will not. Pacing helps the enjoyment of the trip.
10. Know your limits. Think through your particular limitations and issues and what you will handle best. Try to avoid the particular things that are challenging for you. My sensory overload is impacted most by a lot of noise/lights inside buildings, so I planned more outdoor things. Carrying my camera for periods of time increases my pain and inflammation, so my friend graciously carried it most of the time.
Traveling itself is stressful on the body of a chronically ill person. So finding ways to combat the stress and make it easier is crucial.
Happy travels!
Side note: There were many things that made my trip possible, including a generous friend who let me stay in her house and borrow her car. So thankful for God's grace in this opportunity and for health that was stable enough (finally!!) to endure it.
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