Chronic Illness Packing Essentials

If you have a long-term health condition, there’s absolutely no reason you can’t have just as much of a good time on holiday as anyone else. But while packing is never fun, it’s even more important to have everything you need to hand. Even if it is available at your destination, trying to source an essential item after a long day’s travel (and in a different language!) is guaranteed to put a damper on your holiday.

So start early with your preparations, so you have time to buy anything you’ve forgotten and can avoid a last-minute panic. Then sit back and enjoy a well-earned and stress-free holiday.

The Basics

Whether you have a chronic condition or not, there are some must-haves for your packing. These include:

Travel Documents: Passport (don’t forget to check requirements in the country you’re visiting – some countries require a full 6 months before your passport expires, and others require a certain number of stamp-free pages).

Holiday Details: Reservation details for your accommodation. Details of transfers, including local phone numbers.

Travel Money: Credit cards, along with a small amount of local currency. Most shops, restaurants etc take credit cards almost anywhere in the world – but small local traders may not.

Sun Lotion: High sun protection factor sunscreen, sunglasses with good UV protection, wider brimmed hat and loose, floaty clothes if you’re going anywhere sunny. Learn more about How to Stay Safe in the Sun.

Vaccinations: Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination in some countries, including Africa and South and Central America. Learn more about What Vaccines You May Need when Travelling Abroad?

First Aid Kit: Plasters (including blister plasters), antiseptic wipes, scissors with rounded tips (remember, these will need to go in hold luggage) painkillers, antihistamines, indigestion and diarrhoea remedies, anti-sickness tablets,  instant ice packs etc. Learn more about the 10 Essentials for Your Holiday Medical Kit.

Toiletries: Including toothbrush and toothpaste, tissues, deodorant, lip balm, moisturiser, hand sanitiser (a small pack for the plane is really helpful, either if you’re travelling long haul or in case of delays).

Medical ID: If you have a chronic condition, it’s important to wear some form of medical identification, such as a bracelet, or necklace. You can even set up your Medical ID on your smartphone. This will help others identify your condition in case of an emergency and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment quickly. Learn more about Medical ID's.

• Keep your medicine in its original packaging, labelled with your details. along with the patient information leaflet that comes with it. You should also have a copy of your repeat prescription in case you need it at airport security.
  
  
• Check with your pharmacist if you need to take a letter from your doctor detailing your medicines and medical history.  You will definitely need this if you’re taking controlled drugs, or if you need to carry liquids over 100ml onto the plane with you.
  
  
• Your pharmacist can also tell you if any of your medicines is a controlled drug – usually strong painkillers. The Government website also has a list.  If the answer is yes, check with the foreign embassy of the country you’re travelling to about what restrictions they have.
  
  
• Do carry your medication in your hand luggage – ideally split with a travelling companion just in case your hand luggage goes astray. But do make sure you go through airport security with them in case they’re stopped.
  
  
• If you’re taking liquid medicines, syringes, cooling gel packs etc with you, you should be able to take this with you onto the plane. If you’re taking anything out of the ordinary, check the government guidance about what medical equipment etc you can take in your hand luggage.

READ MORE: Travelling with Medications.

Consider Clothing

When packing for your trip, it’s important to consider clothing that’s suitable for both the destination and the activities you have planned. Choosing the right outfits can help ensure you’re comfortable, prepared for varying weather conditions, and able to fully enjoy your holiday without unnecessary stress.

• If you’re taking medicine which makes your skin sensitive to sunlight, invest in UV protection garments. They come in a range of jazzy colours and styles these days and you can still be a style icon!
  
  
• Layered clothing is more practical than a single very warm item, especially if your condition makes you sensitive to temperature.
  
  
• Choose loose clothing with elasticated waistbands makes life much more comfortable when you’re away from home.
  
  
• If you’re going somewhere warm, stick to natural fabrics like cotton or linen, which let your skin breathe. This reduces the risk of prickly heat and fungal skin infections from getting to warm and sweaty.

READ MORE: How to Pack Your Suitcase Like a Pro

• Take an iPad, mobile smartphone or computer that you can download e-books, movies, music, and podcasts. If they’re downloaded you can use them in aeroplane mode: it can be really useful to distract you if you’re in discomfort or anxious.
  
  
• Don’t forget the earphones to attach to your device, as well as ear plugs and an eye mask to help you rest.
  
  
• If you have joint issues, a neck pillow can be a godsend.
  
  
• Consider a portable electric massager or TENS machine if you have joint or muscle pains.
  
  
• Compression stockings reduce the swelling that naturally occurs when you’re sitting on a plane, train or car for long periods with your legs down. They can also cut the risk of deep vein thrombosis (a clot on the leg that can travel to your lungs). Learn more about DVT and Why we Wear Flight Socks.
  
  
• Take a refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated – the air on planes can be very dry and dehydration makes you prone to headaches, blood clots and more. Remember this will need to be empty when you go through security.

READ MORE: What You Can and Can't Pack in Carry On

Gadgets on the Go

The sort of travel gadgets you’ll find most useful will very much depend on what condition you have.

If your mobility is limited, a walking stick which folds out into a stool, a suitcase with spinner wheels or a portable device to help you get out of cars could all be useful. Or maybe you could benefit from a portable shower chair or a suction grab rail?

If you have a condition that makes you prone to infections or fevers, a digital thermometer is a must. Or perhaps you need to keep an eye on your blood pressure?

Whatever you’re looking for, head to our guide to the best travel gadgets for managing health conditions for more top tips.

READ MORE: Our Guide to the Best Travel Gadgets for Managing Health Conditions

Travelling with a medical condition may feel overwhelming at times, but with the right preparation and tools, you can make your trip both enjoyable and stress-free. By packing thoughtfully and considering handy gadgets designed to meet your specific needs, you’ll find it easier to focus on experiencing your destination to the fullest.

Remember, planning ahead is key - know what you need, double-check restrictions for carry-on items, and invest in gadgets that offer practicality and support.