Summer Travel When Living with Multiple Sclerosis: Staying Cool, Safe, and on Schedule
Summer is a time for adventure, filled with road trips, family vacations, and beach getaways.
But when you’re living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), traveling during the warmer months can take a bit more preparation and care.
Between heat sensitivity and staying on track with your biologic therapy or infusion schedule, there’s a lot to think about.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fulfilling, safe summer travel experience. With the right strategies, you can create wonderful memories while keeping your health as a top priority.
When Summer Isn’t So Fun: Heat Sensitivity and MS
One of the most common challenges people with MS face in the summer is heat sensitivity, also called Uhthoff’s phenomenon.
Even a slight rise in body temperature, such as from a hot day, a warm bath, or strenuous activity, can temporarily exacerbate MS symptoms.
You might notice increased fatigue, blurred vision, trouble with balance, or tingling sensations. These symptoms usually subside once your body temperature returns to normal, but they can be disruptive and discouraging.
Thankfully, there are many simple ways for you to stay cool:
- Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing.
- Use cooling towels, fans, or vests to help regulate body temperature.
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours (2 pm – 4 p.m.).
- Hydrate consistently.
- Plan activities early in the morning or after sunset.
Staying on Schedule with Biologic Therapy
Many people with MS rely on infusion therapies or other biologic treatments to manage disease progression.
If you’re receiving in-office infusions, planning travel around your treatment schedule is essential. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
1. Talk to Your Neurologist
Before you finalize any plans, check in with your healthcare provider.
Let them know where you’re going, for how long, and if you’ll be away during your scheduled infusion. They might adjust your treatment timing or coordinate with a clinic at your destination if necessary.
2. Build Your Travel Timeline Around Treatment
If possible, travel soon after your infusion when your symptoms may be better controlled and fatigue is lower.
Avoid scheduling travel too close to your next scheduled treatment, just in case delays or travel issues arise.
3. Pack with a Plan
Here’s a handy checklist:
- Medications (including a few days’ extra in case of delays)
- A copy of your prescription and treatment plan
- Cooling tools (hats, neck wraps, fans)
- Compression socks (for circulation during long travel)
- Portable snacks and water
- Mobility aids, if needed
- A travel letter from your doctor explaining your condition
Navigating Airports and Accessibility
Airports can be overwhelming, especially with long security lines and lots of walking.
If you have mobility issues or fatigue, consider the following:
- Request wheelchair or transport assistance when booking your ticket.
- Use accessible TSA lines, you’re allowed to bring liquid medications and cooling items through security, just declare them. Please get in touch with TSA Cares at least 72 hours in advance to request assistance.
- Give yourself extra time to move slowly and avoid rushing, which can trigger fatigue and unnecessary stress.
- Check your airline’s policies for passengers with medical needs.
Managing Fatigue While Traveling
Fatigue is one of the most common MS symptoms and can be intensified by heat or travel stress. To manage energy levels:
- Schedule rest breaks throughout your day.
- Avoid overpacking your itinerary, and ensure you build in downtime.
- Listen to your body and adjust plans as needed.
- Take naps if possible, especially after travel days or excursions.
When to Call Your Doctor
If you experience any of the following while traveling, reach out to your care team:
- New or worsening MS symptoms that don’t resolve with cooling and rest
- Missing or rescheduling an infusion appointment
- Concerns about medication access or side effects
- Unusual fatigue, weakness, or fever
Living with MS doesn’t mean putting your summer plans on hold. With thoughtful preparation, you can travel, explore, and enjoy the season.
All you need to do is prioritize staying cool, maintain open communication with your care team, and give yourself the grace to travel at your own pace.
Your health and happiness are worth it, so go ahead and make this summer one to remember.
Safe travels!
