Traveling with a Chronic Condition

See your healthcare provider at least 4 to 6 weeks before your trip.

Get written instructions for how to handle problems while you are away.

If you are crossing time zones, ask how to take your medicines on schedule.

Ask about your specific travel concerns. Take notes or ask a loved one to do it.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your routine vaccines. You may need additional vaccines depending on where you are traveling. Ask your healthcare provider which vaccines you need.

Try to travel off-season, when there are fewer people. Fewer crowds can mean less stress for you.

Think about what times of day you feel your best and when you need to take medicine.

If you will be flying, call the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) helpline (855-787-2227) at least 72 hours before your flight. The TSA can give information on how to prepare for airport security screening with respect to a particular disability or medical condition.

If your condition is unstable, bring a letter from your healthcare provider explaining the typical treatment plan . This will be helpful if you need to make a visit to an emergency room.

Do you have enough medicine? Do you have extra for any unplanned delays? Take enough medicine for your length of stay and travel time, and at least 3 extra days of medicine for emergency delays.

Pack your medicines in your carry-on luggage. Keep them in their original containers.

Bring extra written prescriptions. This is in case of emergency or in case your medicines get lost.

If you're traveling internationally, check with the embassy of the destination country about your medicines. Some medicines (like narcotics and psychotropic medicines) may not be allowed in the country.

Pack light and take only what is really needed.

Carry your healthcare providers’ contact information. Carry a list of medicines and a brief health history with you at all times. Give a copy to a person traveling with you.

Check if your health insurance covers medical care during travel. If not, consider getting a travel insurance policy that covers healthcare and emergency evacuation.

Bring a copy of your health insurance’s out-of-area care policy and your health or travel insurance cards.

Have a plan to get care during your travels, in case you need it.

Get the prescription for your oxygen needs in writing.

Make a plan for getting oxygen at your destination.

Arrange for supplemental oxygen in advance with your airline. Ask about costs, paperwork, and layovers.

Ask about the no-smoking policies where you are going.

Let your travel companions and hosts know you can’t be near anyone who smokes.

Wear a medical alert bracelet.

Pack a travel health kit as advised by the CDC . 

Locate the hospital closest to where you are staying.

Find out the emergency services phone number.