A little over a year and a half since COVID-19 has first been declared a pandemic, traveling has looked different for everyone, but it has been an even larger adjustment for those dealing with Long COVID. Long haulers who engage in travel, whether it be for work or leisure, not only have to adjust to ever-changing travel requirements to limit COVID spread, but they also have to adapt to their bodies riddled with symptoms of Long COVID.
To help make their journeys a bit smoother, here are some traveling tips that long haulers may find useful.
Planning ahead is key
Keep in mind that you can save yourself much of the stress that comes with traveling by setting out your entire trip before you embark on it. This includes learning the routes of attractions you want to visit and getting to know the restaurants and grocery stores closest to your hotel. The more preparation you do beforehand means the more energy you can save yourself in the future.
Pack everything you would need to keep yourself feeling your best
This means medicines, vitamins, nutritious snacks, and water—staying hydrated is essential! A plane, car, or train ride takes a large chunk out of your day, and you want to ensure that you prioritize fueling your body throughout the entire trip.
Make sure you stay comfortable
Wear loose clothing, comfortable shoes, and attire to help you protect against the weather conditions of the place you’re visiting. This can range from sunblock and sunglasses to a hefty winter coat and mittens!
Make travel accommodations when needed
Research your airline, hotel, or Airbnb to see what type of accommodations they offer their clients. For example, airlines are able to offer wheelchair accommodations or provide bulkhead seats to provide more room for a comforting ride. Hotels and Airbnbs can have bathrooms with walk-in showers and bedside refrigerators to store medicines, foods, and drinks. At the end of the day, don’t be afraid to ask for help! It can surprise you how many people are willing to ensure you have the safest, healthiest trip possible.
Make time to rest
First, make sure you’re taking enough time to sleep and regain energy for the next day. It is also important to note that you don’t have to do everything you see when you visit your destination, as vacations are times for resting and relaxation anyway! Trips are more about the quality of the activities that you do, not the quantity.
Listen to your body
Even if you have something planned, you may feel too drained for a particular activity or even that entire day. In this case, it may be better for you to stay indoors and relax instead of forcing your body to do activities that it simply does not have the energy for. There’s no need to feel disappointed about this either! You won’t regret taking the time to care for yourself when you wake up the next day feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to enjoy the rest of your trip.
When dealing with Long COVID, many may feel like they have to sacrifice certain luxuries they once had before their condition, and this includes traveling. Although they may have to make adjustments to ensure they are taking care of themselves, there are still ways for long haulers to have safe, healthy, and fun trips by practicing these tips!
Sources: Wofford, K, et. al. (n.d.). 11 tips for traveling with a chronic illness. Trips To Discover. Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.tripstodiscover.com/tips-for-traveling-with-a-chronic-illness/.
10 tips for traveling with chronic fatigue syndrome. The Mighty. (2021, October 15). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://themighty.com/2015/07/10-tips-for-traveling-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome/.
Travel tips for those with chronic illness. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.igliving.com/magazine/articles/IGL_2018-04_AR_Travel-Tips-for-Those-with-Chronic-Illness.pdf.
Travel Tips for Those with Chronic Illness. Travel Tips for Those with Chronic Illness | Standing Up To POTS. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2021, from https://www.standinguptopots.org/livingwithpots/travel.