Seven Tips for Traveling with Parkinson's

For many, living with Parkinson’s can make it harder to leave the house on a daily basis, let alone travel to a new time zone. However, as with any trip, planning can help. Parkinson’s is something you can factor into any itinerary.

1. Plan to bring all your Parkinson’s medications and assistive equipment. Wherever you travel, pack all the medications and dosages you will need, plus extras, in your carry-on bag.Remember to include snacks, a water bottle and anything else you need to take with medication. Write your list of essentials before packing.Remember to pack your go-to outfits that make getting dressed a little easier—wrinkle-free items, shorts and pants with elastic waistbands—and assistive devices you regularly use.

2. Before your trip, check in with your Parkinson’s doctor. Before jetting off, speak to your Parkinson’s doctor to ensure that you have all the medications you need.

3. Request assistance in airports. Consider requesting special assistance at airports, such as a wheelchair or an electric cart service to help with luggage. This can make traveling much smoother and reduce stress. A physician’s written certificate of need may be required, so make sure you call the airline ahead of time.

4. Call hotels to inquire about accessibility and special accommodations. When staying at a hotel, call ahead to request a room with accessibility features, such as a room near the elevator or with wheelchair access. Additionally, if traveling from an airport, ask about transportation services ahead of time.

5. Continue to take medication as prescribed when changing time zones. It is extremely important to take prescribed medications using your everyday intervals between doses. Set (or keep) your medication alarms the same as when you’re home. Speak to your doctor if you have any questions.

6. Check your medical insurance policy. Be sure to check in with your health insurance before traveling so you are aware of any coverage or lack thereof.

7. Take your time, relax and enjoy. Give yourself extra time for everything—enjoy longer meals, breaks between sites, coffee houses. Plan to see fewer sites so you enjoy them more, and when possible, book tickets for sites online ahead of time so you can minimize lines.