The holiday season is a major time for travel. Traveling is stressful enough, but if you’re a cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy, you may run into more barriers than usual. For example — what do you do with your medicine? Do you need vaccinations? How do you prep for travel beforehand? It’s important to plan ahead and take the necessary precautions.
Cancer doesn’t automatically disqualify you from flying or traveling, but it’s best to speak with your doctor about the dangers and challenges. They can help advise you on whether it’s safe and how to prepare yourself.
Travel Tips for Cancer Patients
Here are some travel tips for cancer patients you can follow to enjoy your holiday travel with less stress.
Be careful about the food and water you consume
You should talk with your doctor about what foods and drinks you should avoid. If you’re traveling abroad, check water safety guidelines as the water isn’t safe to drink in some countries.
Remember the four main rules of food safety: “clean, separate, cook, and chill.” You’ll want to ensure the foods and the surfaces they’re prepared on are clean, so outside bacteria aren’t being introduced.
Raw meat and vegetables should be separated so there’s no cross-contamination. Foods like meats should be cooked through completely.
In addition, bacteria can grow on foods that are stored at the wrong temperatures. Hot food should be kept hot, and cold food needs to remain cold.
Locate the closest medical facility where you plan to visit
In case of an emergency, or if you need medical care, you should know where the closest hospital is. Before you leave, search online for hospitals around where you are staying and consult with your doctor. If your doctor has given you instructions or prescriptions for lab testing while you’re away, be sure to give your health care team telephone numbers where they can reach you in case the office needs to get in touch with you.
Get vaccinated if necessary
You may already be up to date on vaccinations; however, you should talk to your doctor about any additional vaccinations before traveling. Vaccines needed may depend on both your travel destination as well as your current medical condition. If you’re traveling to another country, you may need to see an infectious disease travel specialist. Talk with your doctor to see what’s best for you and how to prevent contracting certain illnesses and diseases.
Take your medical information with you
Make a list of your medications with doses, any allergies, your insurance card information, and the telephone numbers of all your doctors and pharmacies. If you’re on treatment, or have a complex medical history, it would be helpful to take a recent note from your doctor about your condition.
You should also carry your ID card if you have an implanted port, pump, or other device. This card will help you avoid problems at the airport and building security. If you don’t have the card, ask your doctor for a note outlining the type, location, and purpose of the device.
Before you travel, talk to your medical insurance about coverage while traveling. Also look into travel insurance for your trip.
It’s also helpful to bring emergency contact information. Include not only your doctor but any family or friends who will be with you on the trip, are aware of your condition, and can assist in an emergency situation.
Pack more medicine than you’ll think you’ll for the entire trip
When traveling, you never know what can happen. You may get delayed and have to stay an extra couple of days or you may misplace some medicine. If you’re flying and checking baggage, keep your medicines in your carry-on just in case your checked bag gets lost.
You should also take copies of all of your prescriptions with you, in case you need a refill. Try to avoid any changes to your dosages and prescriptions right before your trip.
Some medications require refrigeration or special storage. Be sure to make the necessary arrangements while traveling and also where you’re staying. The last thing you want is to arrive and have to scramble to find proper storage for your medicine. Or, worse, to be unable to use your medication due to improper storage on your trip.
Protect yourself from the sun
Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays, but especially if you’re undergoing cancer treatment. Cover yourself with a wide brimmed hat, sleeved shirts, and pants. Your sunscreen should be SPF 30 or higher and applied to all exposed skin 30 minutes before exposure.
Depending on where you travel, other useful protection includes insect repellent as well as a first aid kit in case of any small scrapes.
Stay prepared at the airport
When you’re flying, the airport is a source of exposure to the germs of many people. You may worry about how busy it is, especially during the holidays. Increased travel volumes can increase the potential for infection while you may be more immunocompromised.
Here are some tips for when you’re at the airport and on the plane:
- Bring disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer (while following the FAA’s liquid guidelines) or purchase them at the airport. Airlines practice their own cleaning procedures, but it won’t hurt to be prepared to wipe down any areas you will be in and to wash your hands before eating or drinking.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
- Look into ways the TSA can help before getting to the airport. They offer some assistance for disabilities or medical conditions.
- Move around about once an hour. Staying mobile helps prevent blood clots and swelling. Wearing compression socks and sleeves also can help.
- Wear comfortable clothes that offer more coverage, like long sleeves and pants. When you get to your destination, put on new clothes and wash the ones you used for travel.
If you’re planning a holiday trip, or if you have any other questions about cancer treatment or a diagnosis, please visit UPMC Hillman Cancer Center online or consult with an expert.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .