Word cloud of fibromyalgia symptoms
If you suffer from Fibromyalgia, just like me, you have to take special care when planning a trip – whether it’s visiting a friend in the same town or embarking on an overseas adventure. I’ve learned a few tips and tricks over the past 7 years and am happy to share them with you! These are my top 11 tips for traveling with fibromyalgia.

Tips for Traveling with Fibromyalgia

    Manage Expectations

    I can’t say this enough – manage your expectations. You may decide to limit the amount of city hopping you do; you might need an extra hour to stretch in the morning; you just might need a “down day” after a full-day tour. Think about your current physical and emotional needs before deciding what you want to accomplish on your trip. Be flexible with your plans in case you aren’t feeling well and focus on what you can do, not on what you can’t.

    Plan ahead

    It’s also essential to plan ahead. This includes researching your destination, accommodations, and activities. Look for places that are easily accessible and/or offer amenities that can help make your stay more comfortable. For instance, you may want to stay in a hotel with an elevator if you have trouble climbing stairs. You may even want to look for a hotel or rental property that has easy access to a pool, hot tub, or fitness center.

    Choose a Comfortable Seat

    If you are flying, ask for an aisle seat so you can get up and move around as needed and be sure to pack all the essential items you might need in your carry-on. If you are driving, make sure to take breaks every few hours to stretch and walk around.

    Pack light

    Packing light can make a significant difference in your comfort level while traveling. Only pack what you need and consider using luggage with wheels or a backpack that distributes weight evenly.

    Bring Comfortable Clothes and Shoes

    Bring clothes you can easily layer to keep your body temperature right where you want it to be. Pack good, supportive shoes that will keep your feet as comfortable as possible throughout the day and bring a few blister packs and band-aids just in case you need them.

    Bring Your Medications

    If you have fibromyalgia or any other chronic condition, you’ll certainly have medications you need to bring with you. Make sure you pack them in your carry-on if you’re flying, and bring a doctor’s note if you’re traveling with controlled substances. *It is also important to check the laws of the state or country you are traveling to so that you can avoid any legal trouble.

    Take breaks

    Traveling can be exhausting, especially for those with fibromyalgia. Plan to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. This also involves giving yourself some time to rest before and after your trip. Personally, I have found that I require some downtime both before and after traveling.

    Consider mobility aids

    Mobility aids such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair can be beneficial when traveling long distances or walking for extended periods. You may also want to consider renting a scooter or wheelchair if your destination requires a lot of walking.

    Communicate with your travel companions

    It’s crucial to communicate with your travel companions about your limitations and needs. Let them know when you need to take a break or slow down. Discuss your plans beforehand so that everyone is on the same page and can plan accordingly.

    Practice self-care

    Self-care is essential when traveling with fibromyalgia. This includes staying hydrated, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep. Stick to your regular routine as much as possible, and avoid too many activities that may exacerbate your symptoms. It is also a good idea to pack some heating and cooling products, pain patches, or other pain relievers. These items can help to relieve pain and discomfort so that you can enjoy your trip.

    Manage Stress

    Stress can trigger pain and fatigue, so it is important to find ways to manage stress. You may want to look into box breathing, yoga, or meditation. Travel is inherently stressful, so do what you can to minimize it.
    Let’s face it, traveling with fibromyalgia can be hard, but it’s possible with careful planning and preparation. By following these tips and suggestions, you can enjoy your trip and create lasting memories. Remember to put your health and well-being first, and don’t be hesitant to ask for help when you need it.

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