Travelling with Parkinson's: Tips for Safe and Comfortable Travel

Travelling can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but for individuals with Parkinson's, it can also present unique challenges. From managing symptoms on the go to ensuring accessibility at your destination, careful planning can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll cover essential tips to help you travel with confidence and ease.

Before your trip:

Choose the Right Destination: When booking your trip, consider accessibility, healthcare options, and ease of navigation. Cities with good public transport and attractions that are accessible to people with disabilities, such as museums and historical landmarks, can offer a more enjoyable experience.
Plan Travel Insurance in Advance: Securing travel insurance that covers Parkinson's is crucial. Choose a policy that includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost medication coverage. Our medical screening process helps those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Book Accommodation Wisely: Find hotels or places to stay that provide step-free access. Also, check for walk-in showers, elevators, on-site dining, and medical help if required.
Organise Medications: Carry enough medication for your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Pack them in their original packaging with a copy of your prescription. You should also bring a doctor's letter explaining your condition and medication needs.

Parkinson's UK advises keeping your medication in your hand luggage. If you have needles or syringes for your medication, ask your doctor for a note. This note should explain why they are necessary for your condition. Airport security is very careful about such items. You might also want to think about changing your medication routine a bit if you travel across different time zones.

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At the Airport

Request Special Assistance: Most airlines and airports offer assistance services for passengers with mobility issues. Arrange wheelchair assistance or priority boarding ahead of time.
Plan for Security Checks: Allow extra time for security procedures and inform security staff about any mobility aids or medical devices you carry. You may also want to consider wearing slip-on shoes to make security screening easier.
Stay Comfortable While Waiting: Find a quiet seating area to rest before boarding and stay hydrated and move around periodically to avoid stiffness.

At Your Destination:

Check if public transport is accessible for wheelchairs. Also, look into taxi services that support mobility needs. If renting a car, ensure it suits your accessibility requirements.

Before arrival, research local healthcare options, including hospitals and pharmacies, or consider services like Anywhere GP for medical support while abroad. Carry a medical alert card with key details about your condition in the local language if travelling abroad. Avoid overpacking your itinerary; allow time for rest breaks. Schedule activities during times of the day when you feel most energised and use mobility aids if needed to conserve energy.

Travel Insurance With Parkinson's

How will Parkinson's affect my insurance premium?

Your insurance premium will be based upon a few straightforward and simple questions. To give you an accurate and fair price for your policy, our team of insurance experts take into account a number of factors before giving you a quote.

If you have any uncertainties about travelling we would always suggest speaking to your doctor about the manageability of your condition to see if they can give any advice or how much medication to bring with you. Giving the most information about your condition is imperative in order for us to provide you with the most suitable policy for your pre-existing medical condition.

For more travel tips and insurance guidance, visit our medical travel insurance page.

This guide is here to offer helpful tips and general advice, but for tailored guidance specific to your health and travel plans, it's always best to consult your doctor before you go.