Parkinson’s disease, unless in the late stages, should not be a contraindication for traveling, provided adequate preparations are made in advance. Although it may be intimidating for a PD patient to consider traveling to distant unfamiliar places, certain basic considerations, if kept in mind, can make the trip comfortable, enjoyable, and problem-free.

Preparing for your Trip

• Plan your trip well in advance. This will give you time to consult with your doctor regarding various aspects of your trip. An assessment of your condition will allow him to suggest how far you should be able to travel comfortably – whether to the next state, across the border, or to a overseas destination.
• Your doctor can recommend which form of travel (air, road or sea) will be best suited for you.
• If your drug regimen has changed, it is better to start it well before your trip so that the effect of the drug can be monitored and any necessary adjustments in dosage can be made prior to your journey.
• It is advisable that you carry with you a summary of your illness, present disabilities, and current medication with dosage written by your doctor.
• Enquire from your doctor about other drugs that you might need during your trip, such as for fever, diarrhea, motion sickness, and vomiting. Your doctor will ensure that none of these medicines will result in drug interactions with your PD medicines.
• If traveling by air, request for special meals as recommended by your doctor.
• Find out about medical insurance coverage when traveling abroad.

Travel

• Usually a road trip by car is easier because it gives you the flexibility of traveling at your own pace.
• Consideration of travel time is important too. With PD, you may tire easily, so long journeys are best avoided.
• Plane journeys of more than 3 hours are not recommended since movement becomes difficult after sitting for a long time. However, air travel is often the best option these days so you should try walking around in the plane or if you can afford it, opt for a business class seat.
• Using a wheelchair at the airport will prevent you from getting tired due to unnecessary walking.
• Travel light. Check in most of your baggage.
• Request an aisle seat, as near to the exit as possible.
• Bathrooms in the plane may be uncomfortable to maneuver in, so use the bathroom before getting on the plane.
• Taking a cruise may be a relaxing way of traveling.
• It is a good idea to travel with a companion. Not only does the trip become more enjoyable, but a person by your side may be of help in case of any unforeseen difficulties.
• Remember to keep all your medication on you whenever you are traveling. In the event of lost luggage, you still have your essential medicines with you.
• Some PD medicines may cause drowsiness. Be careful about driving if you are on such drugs.
• Use a watch alarm or alarm pillbox for remembering to take your medicines on time if you are traveling in different time zones.

Other Considerations

• Take extra medicines with you during your travels. While there are options available in every country, you do not want to fall prey to unscrupulous vendors supplying counterfeit medicines.
• When considering accommodation at your destination, be sure that your room is conveniently located, preferably on the ground floor or near the elevator and accessible by wheelchair. Rooms with handicap installments in the bathroom will be additional features to look for.
• Use a backpack when traveling so that both your hands are free.
• Keep in hand the contact details of doctors and hospitals that you may need in case of emergency.