Did you know that going on a long-distance trip can be safe and comfortable even if you have cancer? It’s true. All you need to do is prepare well ahead of your travel date and take enough precautions about your health.
Whether it’s a family wedding, a much-needed holiday, or travel for treatment, thoughtful planning can make your journey smooth. In this guide, we’ll help you plan a safe trip, keeping in mind the current health landscape.
Plan Much Ahead of the Travel Date
Travel planning goes beyond booking tickets and packing. Especially during cancer treatment, advance preparation is crucial for your safety.
- Consult your doctor: Inform your oncologist about your travel plans. If you’ve recently had surgery, you may be advised to avoid air travel for at least two weeks. For treatments like high-dose chemotherapy or bone marrow transplant, travel may be discouraged due to infection risks.
- Destination health check: If traveling abroad, discuss the healthcare facilities at your destination. Your doctor may recommend specific vaccinations (avoiding live vaccines) or preventive antibiotics.
- Pre-travel tests: Your doctor may suggest blood work or other tests to ensure you’re fit to travel, especially if undergoing chemotherapy.
- Travel insurance: Invest in travel health insurance. Verify if your Indian policy covers international travel or if additional coverage is needed.
- Travel companion: Always travel with someone who understands your condition. If traveling with a group, inform the guide or travel company about your needs to avoid exhaustion.
What to Pack
Packing smart can make a big difference in your comfort and safety:
- Medications: Carry your current medications plus extra supply for the entire trip and a few days beyond. Keep them in original containers with labels indicating dosage and timing. Set phone reminders to avoid missed doses.
- Prescriptions: Bring copies of prescriptions in case you need to refill or extend your stay unexpectedly.
- Allergy & emergency list: Include a list of allergies and possible reactions. Share copies with your companion and guide.
- Medical records: Carry copies of your medical reports and a letter from your oncologist detailing your diagnosis, treatment plan, and the necessity of any restricted medications (e.g., codeine, which is banned in countries like Greece and Hong Kong).
- PPE supplies: Pack an ample supply of masks, face shields, gloves, and hand sanitizers—preferably disposable for hygiene during the pandemic.
What to Wear
Comfort is key. Wear loose, breathable cotton clothes in summer and warm woolens in winter. If undergoing chemotherapy, protect yourself from harsh sunlight with a hat or cap.
At the Airport Security
Inform the Transport Security Administration (TSA) about your condition to receive appropriate assistance:
- Head coverings: If wearing a scarf due to hair loss, request a private screening.
- Medical devices: Inform TSA if you have a catheter, port, or ostomy bag. You do not need to remove or empty the pouch, but declaring it helps avoid confusion.
- Prostheses: Breast prostheses do not need to be removed during screening. If carried in luggage, they will be screened normally.
During Your Journey
Be prepared for common health concerns during travel:
- Infection risk: In enclosed spaces like planes or trains, wear a mask and gloves. Avoid crowded areas when possible.
- Blood clots (DVT): Sitting for long periods increases risk. On road trips, stop every hour to stretch. On flights, choose an aisle seat and walk regularly. Consult your doctor about compression stockings.
- Breathing issues: Reduced cabin pressure can affect those with compromised lung function. Inform airline staff in advance; supplemental oxygen may be required.
- Food safety: Avoid raw food and tap water. Drink bottled water and eat freshly cooked, hygienic meals. Home-cooked food is ideal when available. Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Where You Will Stay
Choose accommodations with emergency medical support or a doctor on call. While you may not need it, having access to immediate care offers peace of mind.
As you embark on your journey—whether for joy, family, or treatment—remember that with the right precautions, you can travel safely. As the saying goes, “Happiness is the journey, not the destination.” Enjoy the ride!