1. It's worth the extra money!
Chronic Illness comes with Chronic Complications and they don't take a vacation just because you do. Yes, a 4 star hotel is a bit more costly, but it's worth it to sleep in a comfortable bed and have a bathroom that is steps from said bed. Yes, taxi's might cost more than the bus or a leisurely walk to explore the town. However, if that walk exhausts the chronically ill to the point that they can't enjoy the restaurant, museum or tourist attraction, pay the extra cash for the taxi. There are a lot of things that you could save money on, but don't scrimp on the first day if it means the next three days will be spent in bed.2. Plan for your Illness
You will get tired. You will need to take your medication. You will need to stay hydrated and eat nutritious food. It's worth carrying the extra bag with water bottles and a bag of nuts or fruit. It's important to have all your medications with you (even the 'just in case' ones) and prescriptions for them. Plan for time to rest. Plan for the pain or other problems that might arise from a long plane or car trip. Do your research before you go and use this to help you plan a great experience. Check in with your Medical Team during the planning stages and take their advice on board. Check out these tips from Probe Around the Globe.3. It's okay to be sick/ sore/ ask for help
This is true and important all the time but especially when you are travelling. Accept the special assistance offered at the airport, let your friends carry your extra bag, get the lift instead of the stairs, sit or lay on the ground if you can't wait until you get to a bed. Accept that this is what you NEED and remember that this is supposed to be a great experience for you too. Don't be afraid to take care of yourself and let someone know if you need help. Check out these tips from Pins and Procrastination.4. Choose your Travel Buddy Wisely
We often don't tell people what we are really feeling. I get it. Choose travel companions who understand your illness (or make sure they understand it before you leave). Make plans together and schedule time for you to rest. Make sure your companion has important information about your medications, sleep aids and the best ways they can help you if you fall to pieces (AKA need help). Frugal First Class Travel has some very helpful information (from a medical practitioner) about medications and medical info you should have with you when you travel.5. Start Small
When planning to travel, make sure you know what you can handle. Everyone's body has limits. Know your limits. Try a day trip and see what happens to your body. Try an overnight trip that's closer to home. Take a 3 hour flight and stay for a few days before you plan a long haul flight. Learn from the experience. Caravan Sonnet has some great tips about Cruising with a chronic condition.6. Stay Flexible
Things may not go according to plan. Things will probably not go according to plan. Be prepared for it and let it go. Check out Travel to Recovery for advice from a woman who has travelled internationally with Fibromyalgia.7. Have Fun
Travel should be fun and educational! Relax and remember that the goal is for you to have a great time. If that means being in bed at 8:30pm, so be it. Enjoy what you can, but don't push yourself.Happy Travels
