Chemo patients: Helpful travel tips to ease the burden

(Director’s note: Having cancer does not necessarily end one’s life, let alone their traveling life. There are procedures you can take for comfortable travel. Guest blogger Mahasweta Bose, who creates no-BS travel, lifestyle and wellness guides, lists all the things chemo patients can do for a happy, adventurous life abroad.)

Travel isn’t off the table. Not even close. But only with the right preparations.

You might be traveling for treatment, or maybe you’re looking to take a well-deserved vacation. Regardless of your reasons for traveling, you have to plan ahead and cautiously to prepare yourself for the journey.

Please speak to your doctor first to check if it’s safe to travel, especially if you’ve had a recent transplant or low blood counts. In this segment, we will highlight some realistic and helpful travel tips to help you travel worry-free and comfortably.

Book your flight ahead of time

Most airlines have special arrangements such as priority boarding or seating with extra space in place to make flying totally safe for people with medical conditions. Do a little homework to find an airline that is well-equipped to accommodate passengers with special needs, including those undergoing chemotherapy. However, planning ahead is key.

If it’s a domestic flight, the ideal time to book your air tickets would be 28 days before the date of the journey. For international flights, aim for 60 days in advance.

This gives you enough time to make any necessary arrangements. For long flights, take extra precautions. Pack a neck pillow, a blanket and some sour snacks that help with nausea to keep you comfortable.

Do your best to avoid sitting in the same position for too long. Stand up and stretch lightly every few hours to keep your circulation going and avoid stiffness. Also, remember to pack all your medications in your carry-on, not in your checked luggage. You may need them unexpectedly, so it’s best to have them within reach at all times.

Double-check that your medications are clearly labeled, and have a note from your doctor explaining your medical needs if necessary.

If you are traveling with an implanted device like a port-a-cath, please make sure you inform the security officer before the screening process.

While you don’t have to remove the port during the screening, the process might involve a pat down. Accidentally touching or putting too much pressure on the catheter can cause misplacement, which could trigger serious medical complications.

Dangers of catheter misplacement

Recently, there have been several cases of port-a-catheter migration, which occurs when the port moves out of its intended position. The early  Port-a-Catheter migration symptoms include localized pain and swelling. If left untreated, this can lead to vessel damage and more severe health problems.

According to TorHoerman Law, the polyurethane and barium sulfate (aka Chronoflex AL) used in the making of the catheter body have been found to be defective. This can result in the port device migrating or fragmenting.

Several patients have taken legal action against the manufacturer of the Bard PowerPort device after experiencing injuries related to these issues. If you feel any discomfort or complications while traveling, seek medical attention immediately to avoid more serious health problems down the line.

And, if you believe your port has been improperly handled or you’re dealing with a potential medical error, consider reaching out to an attorney with experience in handling medical device-related injury cases.

They can help you understand your rights and guide you through any legal steps you may need to take.

Know the local healthcare options

Before you head out, do some homework on the local healthcare scene. Find the nearest hospital or medical center. Make sure they’re capable of handling emergencies, especially anything related to your treatment.

You don’t want to be caught off guard in an unfamiliar place. If you’re traveling internationally, double-check the medical facilities—some countries are better equipped than others.

Having the contact info for your healthcare provider back home is a must. You never know when you might need to ask about your treatment while on the go. You might even have access to telemedicine services, which can be a lifesaver when you’re abroad.

Also, jot down all your current medications and treatment details. Carry this info with you and share it with any healthcare professional you might need to see.

Mindful planning can make all the difference if something unexpected happens. If you can easily get the help you need, you can focus on enjoying your trip instead of stressing over potential emergencies. In short, stay prepared and know your options.

Avoid crowded or risky areas

Your immune system takes a serious hit when you’re undergoing chemo.

Chemo works by targeting fast-growing cancer cells, but it can also affect healthy cells, including those that help fight off infections. This leaves you more vulnerable to getting sick. That means even a common cold or flu could hit you harder than usual.

While you’re traveling, you want to avoid places where germs are more likely to spread. Crowded spaces like airports, buses, or busy tourist attractions are full of people who may be carrying germs you’re not ready to fight off. The risk of infection is higher when you’re on public transportation, where close contact is unavoidable.

To protect yourself, limit your time in these areas. If you must go to a crowded spot, wear a mask and keep a distance from others when you can. Hand sanitizers and disinfecting wipes are your best friends right now. They can help kill germs you might come into contact with, especially in places like hotel rooms, public restrooms, or on planes.

You’ve got enough on your plate already, so staying cautious and prepared gives you more control over your health during this time. Don’t take any chances.

Travel with confidence

Traveling during chemo can be an empowering experience. With some thoughtful preparation, you can enjoy your trip while keeping your health a top priority. Pack smart, stay informed, and trust your instincts. You deserve to explore the world—just make sure you’re equipped to handle any challenges that come your way.