6 things to plan for holidays with medical conditions
Holidays with medical conditions are possible with a little planning in advance. Having a medical condition shouldn’t stop you from travelling, but it can mean that you have to take extra care when planning your trip. Although it can sometimes be a bit stressful and time-consuming it’s important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
It’s true that travelling with a medical condition can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With careful planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable journey. To help make your trip easier here are six things to plan in advance before going on holiday.
Speak to your doctor or specialist
Once you have decided that you are taking a trip it’s important that you talk to your doctor or specialist about your plans as you may well have to book between appointments or rearrange any that are already booked. Your doctor may even say that travel isn’t advisable if your condition isn’t stable or manageable whilst away.
It’s also important to make sure that you have any necessary medication and documentation with you as you may not be able to get it at your destination.
It can also be a good idea to research the healthcare system in the countries you plan to visit and make sure that you are familiar with the local laws and regulations. You should also be sure to have a plan in place for any emergencies that may arise.
Make sure people are aware of your condition
If you are travelling with a group of people you don’t normally live with, be sure to let them know about your medical condition and any medications you are taking.
It’s also a good idea to provide them with a list of emergency contacts and any special instructions they should follow in case of an emergency.
Make an inventory list
This is something that everyone going on holiday should do regardless. Make a list of everything you are taking on holiday and take photos of everything too.
If your case ends up being lost or stolen then you at least have proof of everything you had in your luggage. Something else to be mindful of when travelling is that any of your medicines or medical equipment may have to be taken with you as hand luggage rather than placed in the hold of a plane.
Some equipment may not be allowed on the plane at all so check with your airline as you may have to source this in your destination before you leave so it is available on your arrival.
Have the right level of care
We all know that it’s important to have insurance before we go away. This should be sorted asap once you have your holiday booked so if an incident arises before your trip you’re covered.
If you have a medical condition it can be hard to find insurance that gives you enough coverage or the right cover but don’t worry as there are providers who specialise in insurance to cover pre-existing conditions.
Check by searching travel insurance pre-existing conditions UK. Be sure to call them with any questions if needed before you buy too as paying for insurance that doesn’t meet your needs adequately can be costly.
You may not ever need to use your insurance but it is always better to have it and be covered than to travel, fall ill and be left with a hefty bill.
Another thing to consider before travelling is if you need help with accessibility, either on the plane, or any mode of transport once you get to your destination.
When booking your accommodation make sure that have what you need to make your holiday safe and enjoyable. If you are unsure of where to visit why not ask others with health issues similar to your own. There could be perfect holidays with medical conditions you have not even thought were possible!
Pack all your medicines and equipment
Depending on your condition, you may need to pack certain medications or medical equipment.
It’s also important to research the medical facilities and services available in the places you plan to visit so that you can access medical care if needed.
Have important information to hand
If you are travelling to a country where your native language isn’t spoken well have a card with translations of anything you need in the language.
For example any allergies, medical conditions, medicines you are taking and emergency contact details so they are to hand if they are needed in an emergency.
Also, take a photocopy of any doctor’s letters or prescriptions with medicines you need or are carrying as some are prohibited and without this, you can get into a lot of trouble and possibly have your medicines confiscated.
Despite these precautions, it is important to remember that having a medical condition doesn’t mean you can’t travel. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy the same experiences as anyone else and explore the wonders of the world.
So don’t be afraid to pursue your dreams and see the world – just make sure you take the necessary steps to stay safe and healthy.
Do you have any recommendations for holidays with medical conditions? Are any countries particularly helpful or resorts that have good disabled access perhaps? Do let us know in the comments below.
