As long as you are prepared for possible complications, traveling with a serious or life-changing condition can still be a rewarding experience.

Start with your doctor to get clearance to travel. Find out if there are any restrictions and precautions to consider.

If you need a nurse, options range from hiring a nurse at your destinations to hiring a nurse to travel with you.

Choose a destination that fits your health care needs and does not pose undue risk of picking up a new disease. Learn what you need to do at your destination to be safe. For example, in some areas of the world it is safer to stick with pre-bottled drinks.

Pack smart, particularly your drugs.

• Take an extra supply in case the trip gets extended. 
• If you fly, carry enough of your drugs with you on the plane so you are covered in case your suitcase gets to your destination after you do, or not at all.

Be prepared in case you get sick while traveling, including health insurance coverage and how to find an acceptable local doctor and hospital -- or how to get to the nearest one.

At your destination, follow the precautions you learned about. Do not push yourself physically.

If you need to travel for diagnosis or treatment, and cannot afford air transportation, there are free flights available for people who qualify. (Travel for medical purposes is known as "Medical Tourism." For information about Medical Tourism, see the document in "To Learn More.")

If you are traveling outside the United States, additional considerations include:

• Checking to see if your body will tolerate any necessary immunizations.
• Locating English speaking health care providers.
• Having your medical summary and related information translated into the local language before you go.

The amount of preparation described in this document may appear discouraging but it actually will not take all that much time. Think about how much the travel experience will enrich your life. You deserve it!

If you receive an income from a government program, check to find out what happens if you travel for an extensive period of time.

NOTE: 

• If travel is for vacation, consider imposing a black out on your smart phone and e-mails. Is it really a vacation if you are reading e mails or doing business on the phone? Leave a way for people to get to you in the event of a real emergency.
• If you need a travel agent who specializes in helping people with a serious health condition, look for an agent that is a member of Society For Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH), www.sath.org  Tel.:212.447.7284

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