Travel Tips for Those With Cancer

Suffering from cancer doesn’t necessarily mean staying immobile. In fact, many patients have to travel for treatment. Whether you leave town for peace, pleasure or procedures, when you travel with cancer, you need to prepare for any special circumstances related to your condition.

Before Departure Day

Individuals with cancer can avoid many air travel problems by visiting their physician prior to the day of their flight. Physicians can provide detailed letters explaining treatment, prescriptions and ability to travel. If you have received any kind of implant, it may be necessary to request an authorized identification card for airport security.

Packing Tips

When you travel with cancer, you’re probably going to be carrying extra equipment. To move through the airport with ease, pack appropriately.

• Keep any injectable medication separate from other toiletries.
• Carry antibiotics in an accessible bag, and prepare to declare them at security checkpoints.
• Bring multiple copies of your physician’s letter.
• Check www.tsa.gov for regulations related to specific carry-on items.

Air travel is not always advisable for individuals with cancer, so be certain that your physician has approved your plans. As the Macmillan Cancer Support organization points out, some types of cancer can lead to breathlessness or swelling, making air travel uncomfortable at best and dangerous at worst. For most cancer patients, however, traveling can take you to the procedures you need or the getaway you desire, assuming you plan ahead.

Sources: macmillan.org.uk, tsa.gov