Long haul travel

CreakyBear
CreakyBear Member Posts: 3
in Living with arthritis

Hi, I’m due to travel long haul in a few weeks to NZ. I’d like to know if anybody has any tips to make my journey easier. I suffer from anxiety anyway but also have inflammatory arthritis in my knees and wrists so I’m concerned about flare ups and knowing when to take my medication whilst away.

does anyone have any suggestions on how to handle a trip like this with arthritis?


id be very grateful.

creakybear

Comments

  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,764

    I'm used to flying to Los Angeles (about 11hrs) but no further. My suggestions would be:

    1. Make sure you have the right health insurance https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/new-zealand/health

    2. Arrange with the flight operator if you're taking your own wheelchair. If not, consider asking for assistance in the airports as the standing and waling can be horrible.

    3. Take enough meds for the trip and also a prescription. Not all meds, especially painkillers, are accepted in all countries. Check if yours are. I take all meds in hand luggage ever since my hold luggage went missing - only for a couple of days but worrying if meds are in.

    4. Remember most pain meds can only be taken 8 in 24hrs. You might have to prolong the times of how long each pill needs to last before you can take anotheŕ. I always travel with Mr. SW. He moves his watch to LA time on take off and I keep mine on GB time for a day or so to keep track.

    5. Keep well hydrated. This means you'll need to keep going to the loo. That's good. It's important to keep moving. Also twiddle feet about a lot.

    6. On that subject, I changè my surgical shoes to velcroed sandals in the departure lounge. I can hardly walk in them but feet swell on long haul flights anď it makes foŕ much more comfort.

    7. I don't use needles. If you do, anď if meds need to be kept in a fridge, sort it out with your flight operator befòre you go.

    Just ask if you have any questions.

    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • frogmorton
    frogmorton Member Posts: 30,027

    I am off to Cambodia in the new year fairly long but not as far as NZ I am so glad you are going@CreakyBear and hope you have a brilliant time.

    @stickywicket t has given you some fabulous tips there I can't add much more.

    The only thing I'd add is I think @CCM went somewhere a distance this year with I am sure biological meds so might have something to add.

    Take care

    Toni x

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