Tips For Traveling With Psoriasis

Although it may seem counter-intuitive, preparing for a vacation can certainly be stressful, especially when you are traveling with a medical condition. For me, personally, a ton of questions run through my mind.

How should I prepare for my trip? What do I need to pack? Will I have everything I need when I get there? What if I don’t? While I do travel often, I still get the pre-travel jitters. So I have compiled a little list of things to think of before (and while) you’re on the road.

See your doctor before your travels

I usually plan a doctor’s visit before leaving for my vacation. Whether this visit is with my primary care physician or my dermatologist, it makes no difference. Making sure I have enough prescriptions for the trip is vital. Sometimes I even ask for a print out of all my medications, just in case, I lose any while traveling. Seeing your doctor before you set sail will give you some peace of mind.

Keep your medications in your carry on

I always keep my medications close by. Medicine left in luggage can be lost or damaged, which can add a lot of hassle to your relaxing getaway. If you are traveling with biologics, check in with your doctor or pharmacist about safe handling and storage. Sometime a cooler of some sort will be provided to you by either your doctor or health care provider. If you need to refrigerate any of your medications, call ahead and make sure there is a place to do so at your destination. Don’t be shy to ask for a mini-fridge if none is provided.

Pack accordingly

Make a list

From my comfortable pajamas to my SPF lotion, I always make a list of what I am packing. This allows me to stress less. Checking off all the items I need as I go down the list leaves me feeling practically stress-free on the day of my departure. I don’t need to second guess myself, I can just check my list and know that it’s packed.

Know your TSA-approved sizes

Save yourself the trouble of having anything tossed and know the appropriate sizes for all your liquids and creams. Medically necessary items are exempted from the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: According to the TSA website, “You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.¹”

Pack comfortably and according to your destination

Weather can be a big trigger when traveling. If I know that I am going somewhere hot, I pack thin, loose clothing, knowing that my skin needs to breathe and doesn’t want to be smothered under anything too tight. If I am going somewhere cold, I want to protect my skin from the harsh weather with hats, gloves, and scarves.

Pack your own products

I always bring my own shampoo, conditioner, creams, SPF, and so forth. I know how sensitive my skin is to certain ingredients and it’s not worth ruining my vacation over.

Catch some Z’s

I am big on sleeping well and, on vacation, that isn’t always easy. It’s a new place and I like to make it feel as familiar as possible. Bring some essential oils, download your favorite sleep podcast or tranquil sounds playlist, bring your sleep mask, and don’t forget the comfortable pajamas. A good night's sleep sets you up for a better morning to do whatever is on your agenda.

Have your doctor's information

I always bring my doctor's phone number with me when I travel. If it keeps you calm, request a note from your doctor prior to traveling with all his information and a list of your medications. Should you hit any snags on your trip, you have everything you need for refills or any medical emergencies.

Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance

If you travel with psoriatic arthritis as well, don’t be afraid to ask for accommodations to help you get from point A to point B at the airport. At the hotel, don’t be afraid to ask for that mini-fridge or some assistance with your luggage if it’s hard for you to handle. Need an extra glass of water on that flight? Ask! This is your vacation. Try and enjoy it!