Outcomes4Me is a 2024 Fast Company World Changing Idea! Learn more >>

5 tips for smart travel during cancer treatment

Closeup of an early 60's couple waiting for a train at a train station. They are standing on the platform with suitcases on the side, the man emraced his wife, they are talking and laughing. Copy space on the left.

If you’re planning your next trip amid a cancer diagnosis, your travel arrangements will probably look a lot different than they have in the past. Whether you’re in active treatment or not, you still deserve to take time for yourself to travel, if it’s a priority for you and as long as your care team confirms that travel won’t have a negative influence on the status of your overall health. Vacation might not feel like it used to feel, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a way to make it happen.

Here are 5 tips to keep in mind while booking an excursion of any kind.

Talk to your doctor first.

Whether you’re nervous about traveling or feeling excited – or a combination of the two – it’s important to let your doctor know what you’re planning and ask them how travel might affect your cancer treatment. If you’re in the middle of active treatment like chemotherapy, it can leave you immunocompromised and increase the risk of infection and side effects, so ask your doctor when would be best in your treatment cycle to travel and if they feel you are strong enough to handle a trip. Better yet, ask them to write you an official authorization that clears you to go. SOURCE

Pack all your medication.

Make sure you have all your medications ready to go, and consider bringing some extra doses just in case you get delayed or lose anything in transit. Never pack any medication or medical apparatus in your luggage; instead, bring it in your carry-on. Some cancer-related drugs might require a doctor’s note in countries other than the United States, so keep a copy of your doctor’s authorization along with your pills. Also include a thorough list of medications, dosage and any doctor’s notes from your recent visits that could be valuable in case of emergency while you’re away. SOURCE  Also, don’t ever forget your sunscreen. SOURCE 

Prepare for the airport.

If you’re booking a flight, think about what you may need while in the air and choose your seat wisely, if possible. Think about an aisle seat that’s easily accessible, whether you need the flight attendant’s assistance or to use the lavatory. If you’re flying with a caregiver and can’t get seats together, get to the airport early enough to discuss your situation at the gate, and make sure to secure a ride from security to the gate, a wheelchair if necessary, and priority boarding. Also, bring detailed instructions in case someone else needs to administer your medications. SOURCE

Prepare for the plane – or the car. 

You’ll want to be as comfortable as possible on your trip, no matter how you choose to travel. Consider bringing a blanket, a neck pillow, and compression socks with you. If chemotherapy is part of your treatment plan, you may be more prone to blood clots in your legs (deep vein thrombosis), so consult with your doctor about the need to wear compression socks, especially on the plane where altitude changes. Air travel can cause lymphedema, so it’s a good idea to wear a compression garment on all flights to help prevent it or to reduce symptoms if you are already living with the condition. Generally speaking, everyone should consider wearing compression socks in the air, regardless of any known medical issues, especially if you’ll be sitting for an extended period of time. Try to get up and move around every 2-3 hours to keep the circulation going in your legs, or try stretching your calves with simple exercises from the CDC.

Don’t forget to pack some easy-to-reach snacks, like nuts, pretzels or yogurt, to help with nausea and to keep you from any unnecessary malnutrition. Bring a light sandwich or some crackers, and grab water or juice at the airport before you board, so you don’t get dehydrated in transit. SOURCE

Book your stay wisely.

Amenities that might have felt obvious before your diagnosis –  like air conditioning, sun-brellas, or unlimited filtered water – may be more important than ever before. Before choosing your accommodations, ask about the facility’s emergency policies. How difficult is it to see a doctor? How far is the nearest hospital? Will you need a car to get around? Is your room accessible? These are all questions to ask when booking a hotel. SOURCE

At the end of the day, it’s ok to take some time for yourself. If your doctor says it’s advisable, book a trip that works for you, and doesn’t make you work at all. Ask a friend or family member to come along, and let them take care of you – you deserve it.   

Navigate your cancer journey with confidence

Your cancer experience is unique and so is our app. Here’s why it’s your must-have companion:

  • Get personalized support and treatment options
  • Connect with a community of cancer patients and caregivers
  • Track your symptoms and medications
  • Access the latest cancer research and clinical trials

Download the Outcomes4Me Cancer Care App

Related Articles

Now that you’re officially part of the “worst club with the best members”—cancer survivors and...
After your care team completes an initial biopsy and biomarker testing on your non-small cell...

Travelling With Cancer

Can cancer patients travel by airplane during chemo?