Let’s get one thing straight traveling with a health condition or disability doesn’t mean your wanderlust has to stay packed away in a dusty suitcase. Life is for living exploring seeing new places and yes even getting a little lost sometimes. That’s where the best memories happen anyway.
As someone who’s faced a few bumps in the road health wise I know firsthand that traveling doesn’t always look like it does in the magazines. It takes a little extra prep, a splash of flexibility, and a healthy scoop of self advocacy, but it’s not only possible, it can be downright magical.
So grab your travel mug and let’s chat about how to make traveling work for you.
1. Start with Realistic Planning (AKA Know Thyself)
Whether your challenge is mobility related, chronic pain, anxiety, or an invisible illness planning is your best friend. But here’s the catch you don’t need to plan every second of every day. That just leads to burnout and crankiness let’s be honest. Instead, focus on the essentials
• Pick destinations that suit your energy and ability levels
• Find accommodations with accessibility options like elevators or walk in showers
• Don’t be shy about calling ahead or asking questions You’re not being difficult You’re being smart
2. Your Body Your Schedule
The old go go go vacation style That might not be your jam anymore and that is totally okay. Give yourself permission to nap skip a tour or enjoy a quiet afternoon at a café watching the world go by. You’re still soaking in the culture and maybe a little sunshine too.
Pro tip I always build in buffer days between travel and activities. That way if my body needs a moment I’m not missing anything important. It’s like a gift to your future self.
3. Pack Like a Pro (A Pro Who Knows What They Need)
Your carry on might look different than someone else’s. Maybe it’s filled with meds, medical devices, snacks that won’t mess with your blood sugar, or a heating pad that’s seen more countries than some passports.
Pack your must haves in your personal item not your checked luggage and keep a copy of prescriptions or doctor’s notes handy especially for international travel.
And if you travel with equipment like a wheelchair walker or oxygen tank research airline policies ahead of time. Some are more helpful than others and you know who you are.
4. Communicate Communicate Communicate
Don’t wait until you’re halfway across the globe to speak up. If you need wheelchair assistance at the airport, dietary accommodations at the hotel, or a room that doesn’t require climbing five flights of stairs say something.
Most people want to help they just don’t always know how unless you tell them. You are your own best advocate and you’ve earned the right to travel comfortably and safely.
5. Lean into the Joy (Even If Traveling with a Health Condition or Disability Looks Different)
Traveling with a health problem or disability might mean skipping the steep hike, but it might also mean finding a hidden garden you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. Slower travel doesn’t mean less fun it means more present More moments More memories
Whether it’s sipping tea in a centuries old bookstore or taking in the view from a cable car your journey is yours. And it’s just as beautiful maybe even more so.
6. Join the Community (We’re Out Here)
You’re not alone. There are Facebook groups forums blogs like this one and entire communities of travelers with chronic illnesses disabilities and health concerns sharing tips encouragement and destination reviews. Let’s lift each other up one wheelchair accessible beach at a time.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve This
Don’t let anyone not even that nagging voice in your own head convince you that travel isn’t for you. It is. You deserve beauty. You deserve fun. You deserve adventure on your own terms.
So whether you’re dreaming of a cross country road trip or a quiet cabin in the woods know this the world is waiting. And it’s absolutely better with you in it. With a suitcase full of Band Aids Epsom salts and big dreams.
