Lymphoedema Travel
By Gaynor Leech, Founder of LWO Community and Lymphoedema Expert Patient Advocate. ... When you live with lymphoedema or another chronic condition, you should plan your travel as far ahead of time as possible, whether it's for pleasure or business, a quick stopover, or a long vacation.
Although no one likes to think of themselves as disabled, mobility issues can manifest in different ways. Difficulties when travelling range from swollen and uncomfortable lymphoedema in your arms, feet, legs, or other non-visible areas to osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. A few of our members have fibromyalgia.
However, nothing should stop you from getting out and having fun with a little bit of preparation and support to take the stress out of your journey.
In 2024 our Lymphoedema Travel webpage was one of our most popular pages on the website. This year it has had a rewrite with more information added. The webpage provides detailed guidance on travelling with lymphoedema and other chronic conditions.
Here are the key points:
- Planning Ahead: Whether for business or leisure, preparing well in advance can help avoid problems. Research transportation and accommodation options carefully.
- Managing Travel Anxiety: Look for support, and prebooking services can ease concerns.
- Accommodation Considerations: Look for accessible features such as lifts, wet rooms, and 24-hour reception availability.
- Impact of Travel on Lymphoedema: Heat and stress can exacerbate swelling, so maintaining skincare routines and wearing compression garments are important.
- Summer Travel Tips: Keep skin hydrated, protect areas affected by lymphoedema, and be mindful of temperature-related flare-ups.
- Staying Cool: Practical cooling methods include frozen face cloths, cool clothing, and lukewarm showers.
- Airport and Flight Tips: Pre-book assistance, wear compression garments, move around frequently, and stay hydrated to minimise swelling.
- Travelling by Various Modes of Transport: Take regular breaks, exercise affected limbs, and ensure accessibility when travelling by car, bus, or train.
- Luggage Management: Use wheeled cases, avoid carrying heavy bags on the affected side, and organise essentials effectively.
- Travel Insurance: Declare pre-existing conditions and read the fine print carefully.
- Foreign Travel Considerations: Check medication legality in destination countries and ensure passport is valid. Do you need a visa for the country you’re visiting?
- Emergency Preparedness: Carry essential items, such as water, painkillers, moisturiser, sunscreen, and medical alert cards. Emergency fund.
- Mobility and Communication Aids: Blue Badges, bus passes, and apps/cards for accessibility and communication can be helpful.
Check out the webpage for more detailed information.
Summer, particularly during holidays, raises the risk of swelling, prickly heat, hives, bug bites, and stings. Even small changes in shower, pool, or seawater might cause your skin to dry up. Always shower after swimming to remove seawater and chlorine, which can exacerbate skin dryness. Keep your skin hydrated by moisturising twice a day whenever possible. Protect your skin from sun damage and use a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen. The L-W-O support group members helped produce a first-aid travel kit.
Does the heat cause you problems?
L-W-O’s Lymphoedema Summers provides practical information on how to manage lymphoedema in hot weather.
If you are affected by heat during the night, then check out our Cool Nights page.
Lymphoedema might be a part of your life, but it doesn’t have to stop your adventures. Travelling opens up a world of experiences, connections, and unforgettable moments, and with a little preparation, there’s no reason to hold back. Many destinations offer accessible options, and with small adjustments and careful planning, your journey will be smoother.
Exploring new places can be uplifting and empowering, reminding you that your condition doesn’t limit your spirit or curiosity. So go ahead, whether you choose the UK or further afield—embrace the sights, flavours, and cultures that await, because the world is still yours to discover.
Happy travelling
Gaynor x
