The key to any successful vacation lies in planning. Having CF
means taking extra care in making arrangements ahead of time, and being
realistic about where you should or shouldn't go. Some countries or places may
be off limits simply because they lack adequate health care resources. To
determine if an area is right for you, speak to the people at your local travel
clinic. They are a wealth of information on such matters as available health
resources and immunizations appropriate to the travel area.
Travel Tips
Get a letter from your doctor stating that you have CF, and need certain
medications. Make sure you list them in detail - in English and the language of
the country (or countries) you will be travelling to. Since trade names of
medications differ from country to country, list both the trade and generic
name. Always carry this letter on your person, so that it's readily available
for customs and border personnel.
Not all medications are available in all countries. Speak to your doctor
about taking extra medications and/or antibiotics with you and guidelines for
their use.
Take everything you need for your treatment with you. Your medications
should be labeled and in their original bottles. For electrical equipment, find
out about the plug-ins, voltage/power that are used in the country you're going
to. You may need an adapter to use your equipment. Also, think about your
medications. Do any need refrigeration? What plans can you make to accommodate
this? Finally, always try to carry as much of your medications as possible in
your carry-on bag to ensure you have them in case your luggage is delayed or
lost.
Get a list from your CF Clinic of the CF centers or hospitals in the areas
you will visit (just in case). Check into medical insurance to see what is
covered and what is not.
Make a thorough check of the elevation, pollution level and temperature in
the country or city you'll be going to. If it's hot and sunny, pay special
attention to your salt and water and electrolyte intake. (See link to
dehydration section in Nutrition). As well, speak to your pharmacist if you are
taking antibiotics. Some can make you hypersensitive to the sun, so take
appropriate precautions.
Can I travel with oxygen?
Yes, but special arrangements and permission will be needed to ensure oxygen
is available en-route and at your destination. This could prolong your planning
time and cost you more money. Speak with your local oxygen supplier for
assistance. Also, keep in mind that some airlines will not allow you to use your
own oxygen equipment. Contact the airline (or airlines, if you are taking
connecting flights) about their oxygen policies.
Travelling is fun and relaxing, but it can also be stressful. Thinking ahead
and figuring out what you need beforehand, can help you better enjoy your
vacation.
