Tips for Airport Travel with Chronic Illness

Written by Kaite Belmont, Healthcare Communications Professional & MS Advocate

I used to travel for work all the time and I had a pretty solid routine at the airport. Since my multiple sclerosis diagnosis, that routine has changed – for traveling in general, but especially when I’m on a work trip. Whether you live with multiple sclerosis or another chronic illness, you probably know that traveling solo can be a challenge.

The long walks from security to the gate can feel less like a convenient way to get some steps in and more like an energy-zapper. Since I’m traveling by myself, I don’t have an extra set of hands if I need to use my cane, so I have to do a bit of maneuvering to get my boarding pass ready and roll my suitcase at the same time.

In this new reality, having a plan is critical. If you’re on this journey, too, here are my tips for how to conquer the solo work trip when living with multiple sclerosis or another chronic illness:

Take Advantage of Accommodations

Soon after my diagnosis, I received this incredible advice from another woman living with multiple sclerosis. If you need a ride to the gates, TAKE IT. If standing at the gate waiting to board is going to drain your energy, board early as part of preboarding for disabled passengers. Sign up for the wheelchair when you book your ticket or ask for one when you get to the airport. That’s why these services exist!!

Admittedly, usually, my pride prevents me from catching a ride on the little airport vans, but one time I did, and it was glorious. There is no shame in accepting the help that is available to you, which will make traveling solo a more enjoyable and accessible experience.

Cut Down on Wait Times

Standing in long lines can be so exhausting – TSA especially. I highly recommend you get TSA PreCheck or Clear so that you can avoid standing in the security line for a long time. It’s so worth it, especially if you are a frequent traveler.

Use Club/Lounge Memberships

If you’re able, getting a membership to an airline club or lounge can be a huge help. Even before my diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, and especially after, having access to the United Club has been amazing. It’s a place where I can go sit down in a comfortable chair and have access to a clean bathroom (that usually does not have a long line – again, cutting down on standing time!).

Board Early

Let me tell you – being able to board early to get settled and off my feet is well worth the looks people give me when I go up for preboarding with my cane. I have a cane that folds up and fits into a small bag, and I use this when getting from security to the gate, and when I’m preboarding.

The other thing I love about preboarding when I’m by myself is having a little extra time to get situated on the plane. If I need to lift my bag into the overhead compartment, I don’t feel super rushed. Again, these accommodations are in place for people with disabilities for a reason, so take advantage of them.

Avoid Poor Circulation

Sitting for an extended period of time can lead to stiffness and poor circulation. No one wants to get off the plane with swollen and sore legs, feet, and ankles!

They’re a bit dorky, but I wear compression socks on the plane and they help me avoid that feeling of having heavy legs by the end of the flight. Also, move around and stretch as much as possible! Simple things like rolling your ankles while sitting down can make a big difference.

Take Your Time

When you land, take your time to get where you need to go. For some reason, being in an airport makes my NYC walking pace start to set in. I’ve had to gently remind myself that there is no need to move so fast.

With that in mind, try to plan your flight times so you don’t have to rush to the next gate. If that’s not possible, hail the little airport cart and get a ride! When you’re planning your trip, keep your chronic condition in mind and the experience you’ll have navigating your travel.

Stay Cool

We all know that heat can be a pain (literally), so if you’re traveling in the summer months or in a warm location, do what you can to stay cool. Even the temperature on the plane can be unpredictable!

If you need to wait for a ride, find a shady spot outside or wait inside. You can also bring a portable fan or a cooling towel, and always be sure to have a water bottle you can refill. 

Solo work travel with a chronic illness doesn’t have to be intimidating – all it takes is a little planning and some flexibility.

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