Travel Tips for People With Psoriatic Arthritis

3. Travel at Nonpeak Times

At nonpeak times, fewer people are at the airport or on the airplane, fewer people are on the bus or train, and fewer cars are on the highway or at the rest stops — all of which can mean a quicker, more comfortable trip for you.

Off-peak travel can also make it easier to find hotel rooms or other types of rentals, and it may make it easier, and possibly less expensive, to visit attractions at your destination. At the very least, the places you go will be less crowded than at peak times, and you’ll spend less time waiting in lines.

4. Take Nonstop Flights

Make reservations for nonstop flights when possible. This shortens your overall travel time and also lets you avoid walking from gate to gate and having either to wait for connections or hurry to make them. It may also lower the likelihood of luggage getting lost.

If you’re concerned about security screening at the airport, check the TSA Cares website or call their toll-free hotline (855-787-2227) for information and assistance. This hotline advises people with disabilities and medical needs on how to deal with potential screening difficulties.

5. Research Ground Transportation Options 

If you’re not driving yourself to your destination, you’ll need to research your options for getting around once you’re there.

Is there a subway or bus system? Are there taxis or shuttles easily available? Are you traveling with a tour group that can pick you up? Or will you need to rent a car for local trips?

Having someone else do the driving in an unfamiliar location can be more relaxing than navigating the roads and parking possibilities yourself.

6. Pack Lightly

When traveling by plane, train, or bus, limit your bags to less than 25 pounds total weight and make sure your luggage is on wheels. Try pushing (not pulling) the suitcase with both hands to eliminate added stress on hands and shoulders. Limit your carry-on bag to one lightweight shoulder bag.

Some travel experts suggest taking half of the clothing you expect to need; you can usually wash some clothes at your hotel or a local laundromat midway through the trip.

But don’t skimp on items that will keep pain and stiffness at bay. If a neck pillow, heating pad, compression socks, or comfortable pair of slippers will make your trip easier and more enjoyable, bring them.

Of course, if you’re using your own car to travel, you have the option of bringing more and heavier things. But keep in mind that you’ll still need to lift those things in and out of the car when you stop for the night or reach your destination.

7. Bring All Your Medications

You should bring enough prescription medication to last the length of your trip. You may also wish to speak to your doctor before the trip about prescriptions for any extra you may need, such as pain medication for flare-ups during travel.

Pack your medications in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) additionally recommends the following when traveling abroad:

• Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Ensure that they are clearly labeled with your full name, healthcare provider’s name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage.
• Bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines.

Be aware that traveling abroad may require additional steps and precautions when it comes to carrying medications and equipment such as syringes or other injection devices. Be sure to check with your doctor and with the CDC’s Travelers’ Health information page before you go.

8. Take Walking and Stretching Breaks

If you travel by car, stop every one to two hours and walk around for at least five minutes. Even a short walk can ease psoriatic arthritis pain and stiffness.

When you travel by airplane or train, walk up and down the aisle several times during your trip, and do some stretches in your seat or in the aisle, if possible.

If you’re traveling by bus, you’ll want to stay seated while the bus is moving for safety. But ask the driver if and when there will be scheduled stops. Many long-distance bus routes include a meal break during which you can take a short walk.

Consider using ice or heat therapy to ease your joint pain during travel. You can bring heat wraps or a cold pack to place on swollen joints in a car, plane, bus, or train.

9. Pace Yourself and Take Time to Rest

Once you’ve reached your destination, you may want to jump into sightseeing, visiting with friends, or sampling the local culture. But travel itself is tiring, and it’s wise not to plan too much activity for the first day.

Even once you’ve had a good night’s sleep, you’ll want to pace yourself and allow time for rest between activities.

“Taking time daily to calm yourself is important in reducing anxiety and managing a chronic illness,” says John Berg, PhD, a Florida-based licensed psychologist.

For many people, mindfulness meditation is a way to reduce stress and feel calmer, and it doesn’t have to take a long time. Even five minutes can make a difference if you do it regularly.

Additional reporting by Ingrid Strauch.