Traveling opens the door to discovering new places and spending time with loved ones. For individuals with Parkinson’s, travel may come with extra consideration – but with thoughtful preparation and practical planning, a safe and fulfilling journey is possible. These tips from people with Parkinson’s can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. 

Preparing for the trip

Managing Medications

• Carry all medications in hand luggage with at least a week’s worth of extra doses for unexpected delays or extended trips. Avoid carrying in checked luggage for hassle-free travel.
• Bring essential over-the-counter medications, as availability varies by country when traveling internationally.
• Keep prescription documentation, as some countries strictly scrutinize medications at customs in international travel.
• Consult your neurologist for guidance on adjusting medication timing across time zones.

Utilizing Community Support

• Connect with Parkinson’s groups online or locally to gather information about accessible accommodations, helpful airlines, and activities at the destination.

Planning logistics

Flight Planning

• Whenever possible, choose flight departure and arrival timings that align with your regular sleep schedule.
• Choose an aisle seat to allow easier movement and more convenient access to the lavatory.
• Consider extra legroom or lie-flat seat options to prevent stiffness during longer flights.

Train Journey

• Booking an aisle seat makes it easier to access restrooms or the dining car and can be conducive to movement during the journey. 
• Board at major stations to utilize Amtrak’s Red Cap assistance services for free baggage handling and mobility assistance.

Road Trips

• Plan stops every two or three hours for stretching, hydration, restroom breaks, and medication.
• If driving, plan to have a backup driver who can assist in case of fatigue. Schedule rest stops at adequate intervals.

Time and Navigation

• Allow an extra hour when traveling to airports, train stations, or bus terminals to avoid the rush. 
• Review terminal maps beforehand to know what to expect.
• Consider setting your watch to home time until the first day at the destination to maintain the regular medication schedule. Coordinate with your neurologist for the best plan. 

Travel Essentials

• Pack a refillable water bottle for hydration, especially during air travel, and make sure to fill it up after clearing the security check.
• Consider creating a travel playlist to enjoy during the journey. You can download the content to a mobile phone or portable device in advance, so that it’s available for use even when internet access is limited.

Seek Airport Assistance Services

• Pre-book wheelchair assistance services for check-in, security screening, terminal corridors, and customs to conserve energy for activities at the destination.
• The Sunflower Program helps airport and airline staff identify travelers with non-visible disabilities through a sunflower lanyard, available at information desks or when booking assistance services.

Communicate With Staff

• You may inform security personnel, gate agents, and cabin crew about your Parkinson’s diagnosis.
• Explain that certain movements, including removing clothing, unpacking bags, or getting out of the seat, may take additional time.

After reaching the destination

Arrival and Adjustments

• Plan lighter activities for the first day or two to adapt to new time zones. 
• Use phone alarms to maintain medication schedules when jet lag disrupts the routine.

Planning Activities

• Choose activities that match your current energy and mobility levels.
• Research accessibility features before visiting attractions: elevation changes, terrain types, ramps, lifts, accessible paths, and rest areas.
• Break attractions into manageable sections with rest periods in a cafe or seating areas.
• If booking a major activity, consider treating it as the only event of that day rather than trying to pack in multiple experiences.
• After an active day, plan a day of rest.
• Consider river cruises, bus tours, or other low-effort sightseeing options that minimize logistics while maximizing experiences.

Daily Health Management

• Drink water consistently throughout the day, as Parkinson’s can affect thirst perception. Waiting to feel thirsty may already mean you are dehydrated. 
• Pack nutritious snacks like nuts, protein bars, or peanut butter crackers to maintain energy when meals are delayed.
• Carry only the day’s medication doses while sightseeing and secure the rest at the accommodation.
• Stretch daily or consider scheduling a massage during longer trips to prevent muscle tightness.
• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes throughout the journey.

Maintaining Your Best Voice while traveling

Background noise, accents, and stressful situations can increase communication challenges. Continuing the daily SPEAK OUT!^® Home Practice routine, even while traveling, is essential to maintain your speech and swallowing. 

Take SPEAK OUT! Therapy with You Virtually

Developed by Parkinson Voice Project, SPEAK OUT! Therapy helps individuals with Parkinson’s and related disorders REGAIN and RETAIN their speech and swallowing. By working with a Certified SPEAK OUT! Provider, individuals with Parkinson’s improve volume, articulation, breath support for speech, vocal quality, intonation, and facial expression. Parkinson Voice Project offers resources for patients and families, including educational lectures, blogs, and online practice sessions at no charge. 

The online SPEAK OUT! Home Practice Sessions provide structured practice at home and away. Involve your friends and family, so they can understand the power of INTENT. 

Looking ahead

By preparing thoughtfully, setting realistic expectations, and communicating with INTENT, individuals with Parkinson’s can explore their world and enjoy all that travel has to offer.