Travel Time Tips

Travel with or without an illness these days can and often will try your patience, up your stress level, and test your sanity. Where are you going, what are you doing, how will you get there? Slow it down. You’ll get there–when you get there. Taking on the travel challenge might just be a little more peaceful and serene if you try some of these tips:

• If you are flying or are forced to be at a determined destination like a train or bus station, allow yourself even an extra hour of time to avoid the feeling of being rushed or stressed. The more self-induced pressure that you add to the event, the more energy you waste, and in a crowded airport, we all need to conserve our energy.
• Reduce Your Stress – When we travel, it is easy to get distracted and lose focus. Deep breathing and meditation may help you keep on track and stay sharp. Something as simple as using an app like, Headspace, or sitting quietly and gathering your thoughts for a few moments a day, may improve concentration.
• Bring Your Favorite Music – Make a special travel playlist of music that you look forward to hearing either in the car or once you get to the plane.
• Plan Ahead – Stress can impact your mind, body, and spirit. Take the time to plan as much of your trip as possible in advance. Don’t wait to start packing until the night before you leave. And remember to pack light!
• Give Yourself Plenty of Time:
  • If you are driving, have your stops planned out for stretching, bathroom breaks, gas, and food.
  • When traveling by air: Get to the airport early, consider getting help to carry your bags, allow yourself extra time to board the plane, and consider reserving a wheelchair if walking those long terminals may be difficult and tiring.
  • Consider train travel as a great way to reduce stress and reach your destination.
  • It is important to give yourself some downtime each day. Even a 15-minute break can be a great way to rejuvenate yourself and allow you to participate in important activities later.
• Keep Your Medications with You – Don’t pack your medications in your checked luggage, keep them in your carry on! Keep your medications in their original bottles for identification purposes. Also, make sure you have additional days of doses in case you experience a travel delay returning home.
• Stay on Your Regular Medication Schedule – If you are traveling across time zones, consider keeping your watch on your home time until you start the first new day at your destination.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate – Because thirst can be affected by Parkinson’s, make sure you are keeping hydrated. If you only drink when you are thirsty, you may already be dehydrated.
• Wear Sunscreen – If you take carbidopa levodopa (Sinemet, Sinemet CR, Rytary, Duopa), this medication makes you more sensitive to the sun and heat.
• Keep Your Hands Free – Use a backpack or fanny pack to keep your hands free. Consider using walking poles to help you stay steady. Wear comfortable shoes that offer stability.
• Have Fun – Enjoy your time and have a safe journey! Some planning ahead and staying flexible can go a long way in your travels.