Traveling with Arthritis or Chronic Pain and Mobility Issues

Tips for a More Comfortable Journey

Hello, fellow travelers!

My name is Deb Andio, and as someone who lives with osteoarthritis in both feet, knees, hands, and spine—as well as osteonecrosis in my right knee—and Spondylolisthesis

I understand how challenging it can be to travel while managing chronic pain.

You might say it’s like carrying a weight on your shoulders, but I firmly believe that chronic pain should not hold us back from exploring the world.

Thanks to PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections nine years ago, my right knee has improved significantly. I went from living in constant pain to walking 3-6 miles a day and embracing life again!

However, while we all want to travel, planning is essential if you live with arthritis, chronic pain or mobility issues .

Below, I’ve compiled my comprehensive guide to help you navigate your travels with ease and comfort. So whether you’re going 50 miles down the road or 5 to 6000 miles across the ocean these tips will help you make your trip a little less painful .

General Travel Tips for Those Living with Chronic Pain

1. Plan Ahead

Research your destination. Some places are not mobility-friendly—for instance, cobblestone streets and steps in Croatia or in Italy many cities have steep hills that can pose challenges. Know what to expect before you arrive. Do not feel guilty about needing to rent a scooter or a mobility chair? If you go to Egypt and you have a bad hip, how do you think you’re going to swing around to get on the Camel 🐪 plan ahead
Pre-book accessible accommodations and attractions if needed. If you travel to the Netherlands, for example, many places, such as boarding, houses bed-and-breakfast, don’t have elevators summer on the third floor plan ahead

2. Lightweight Packing

Invest in a good-quality, lightweight suitcase or carry-on. The one we have is a lightweight, hard shell suitcase, carry-on, and thankfully it’s got a cup holder built into the back .
Avoid heavy baggage to make navigating airports, train stations, and cruise ships easier.
Pack only the essentials. Consider your itinerary and the activities you’ll be doing.
You don’t need 15 pair of shoes to go away for three days five days seven days or 10 days when you live with Arthritis you want a comfortable pair of flats maybe a low heel and a good comfortable pair of tennis shoes not new ones ones that you have broken in .
Do you want a good Crossbody bag? I like cool, funky ones from Vera Bradley hobo makes good ones and they’re not ridiculously priced. This way you can carry your wallet your passport, your phone right across your shoulder and body so it doesn’t keep sliding off your shoulder and you can’t over Stafford to make it feel like you have another 10 pound weight on your shoulders.
Pack for the season to the place and location you’re going if you live in Arizona or Florida or Ohio and you’re traveling to the tropics in December you don’t need to pack heavy clothing same with if you live in a hot climate and you’re going snow skiing you’re certainly not gonna get much use out of those shorts so take some jeans , a couple nice sweaters remember it’s always best to pack for your destination.
If you’re traveling to places out of the United States, check to make sure you don’t need a plug adapter for your blow dryer curling iron, flat, iron or contact the hotel you’re staying at and see if they have them available so you could leave yours at home making your packing a little later

3. Medication Management

Always take a spare prescription from your doctor in case medications get lost or you run out.
Carry your medications in their original bottles to avoid any issues at security checkpoints. Keep them with you at all times while traveling .

4. Comfortable Footwear

Prioritize comfort over style. Wear supportive shoes that can accommodate for any swelling or discomfort during long walks. Do you want a good pair of Tennis shoes or kicks , And pretty yet comfortable pair of flat shoes in case you go out .

5. Travel Accessories

Use walking aids (like a cane) or consider bringing or renting a mobility chair for longer distances.
Invest in compression socks for added support during flights or long road trips.

Specific Tips for Different Modes of Transportation

Air Travel ✈️

Notify Airlines in Advance: Inform the airline about your needs—whether you need assistance getting to your seat or storing your bag.
Check-in Early: Allow extra time for check-in and security; this will help reduce stress.
Board Early: Take advantage of pre-boarding for additional time to get settled.
Stretch During Flights: Move your feet and legs periodically to help decrease stiffness and improve circulation.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat the dehydrating effects of cabin pressure.
Keep your cannabis, edibles, CBD all at home

Train Travel 🚂

Arrive Early: Similar to air travel, arrive with ample time to secure a comfortable spot.
Choose Accessible Routes: Many trains have accessible facilities; be sure to check availability when booking.
Pack Snacks: Bring healthy snacks and water, especially for longer journeys.
Reserve Seats in Advance: Opt for seats with more legroom or those designated for passengers needing extra assistance.
Use Luggage Racks Wisely: If you’re traveling alone, ask staff for help with your bags, especially when boarding or disembarking.
Keep your cannabis, your edibles and your CBD at home

Road Trips 🚙

Frequent Breaks: Stop every 1-2 hours to stretch, walk around, and relieve pressure on stiff joints.
Comfortable Seating: Use seat cushions for added support during long drives.
Plan Your Route: Choose scenic routes with interesting stops to break up the drive.
Pack a Cooler: Keep healthy snacks and drinks handy for the journey.
Have a Pain Management Kit: Include ice packs, heat wraps, pain rubs, or any tools that make you comfortable.
Remember, it’s illegal to transport medical cannabis across state lines it’s illegal to transport gummy’s candy, anything the sky cannabis and if you’re traveling to another country, CBD may also be illegal

Bus Travel 🚃

Choose Accessible Buses: Look for public or shuttle buses equipped with ramps or designated seating.
Get to the Stop Early: Arrive with enough time to sit and wait comfortably.
Request Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when boarding or disembarking.
Travel Off-Peak: If possible, avoid peak times when buses are crowded for a more pleasant experience.
Bring Distractions: Use audiobooks or music to make the journey more enjoyable.
Keep the cannabis and CBD at home

Cruise Ships 🛳️

Inform the Cruise Line: Notify them of your needs when booking your trip.
Choose Cabins Wisely: Look for rooms close to elevators or common areas to minimize walking.
Plan Shore Excursions Carefully: Choose tours that suit your mobility level.
Utilize Ship Amenities: Take advantage of onboard services and assistance. If you need to rent a wheelchair or mobility chair, please make sure you do so well in advance and always call and confirm it the week before and the day before your trip
Stay Active: Participate in gentle activities offered on board to keep moving without over-exerting
Leave your cannabis and CBD at home 🏠