Traveling with Psoriatic Arthritis: Tips for a Safe and Stress-Free Summer
Planning a summer getaway is exciting, but if you’re living with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), doing so may seem daunting at times.
The good news? With some preparation and a flexible mindset, you can travel safely and comfortably while managing your condition.
Whether heading to the beach, exploring a new city, or visiting family, these tips will help you make the most of your summer travel plans without sacrificing your health or peace of mind.
1. Plan for Your Medications (Especially Biologics)
Biologics are a cornerstone treatment for many people living with PsA, and planning your next infusion or traveling with them requires extra care, especially in the summer heat.
If your biologic requires an infusion, schedule your appointment with enough time to avoid scheduling conflicts with your trip.
On the other hand, if you’re taking an injectable biologic, ensure you have enough doses for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case of delays.
Use a medical-grade travel cooler with ice packs to keep your medication at the recommended temperature.
Many airlines allow you to carry injectable medications in your hand luggage, but be sure to check their specific requirements.
Also, talk to your rheumatologist ahead of time about your travel dates. They can help you adjust your medication schedule if needed and provide documentation in case you need to explain anything at airport security or customs.
2. Keep Your Joints Comfortable During Long Trips
Long car rides or flights can be tough on your joints.
Plan to move around every hour or so to reduce stiffness and pain. If you’re flying, try to choose an aisle seat so it’s easier to stand up and stretch.
When traveling by car, build in rest stops where you can get out, walk around, and do a few gentle stretches.
Bring supportive travel gear, like a neck pillow, lumbar support cushion, or compression gloves if your hands swell.
Wearing comfortable shoes and loose clothing can also help you feel more at ease during travel.
3. Stay Active—But Don’t Overdo It
When exploring a new place, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and push yourself too hard.
But remember that overexertion can trigger a flare, which could leave you sidelined for the rest of your trip.
To avoid this, try to build rest days into your itinerary and alternate high-energy activities with more relaxing ones.
Choose low-impact activities that support joint health, like swimming, walking tours at your own pace, or gentle yoga.
And don’t be afraid to ask about accessibility options; many tourist attractions now offer accommodations that can help you conserve energy while still enjoying the experience.
4. Stick to a Routine Where You Can
Travel can disrupt your usual routines, mealtimes, sleep, exercise, and even when you take your medications.
While flexibility is important, try to keep some structure in place. Set reminders on your phone for medication times, bring healthy snacks to avoid inflammatory food choices on the go, and aim for consistent sleep even across time zones.
If you follow a specific anti-inflammatory diet, consider booking accommodations with a kitchen or researching restaurants with menu options that align with your needs.
A little planning can go a long way in preventing flares.
5. Pack a PsA Care Kit
Before heading out, assemble a travel care kit with essentials you might need while away from home. This might include:
- Pain relievers or NSAIDs
- Biologics and supplies (syringes, alcohol wipes, etc.)
- A small heating pad or hot/cold packs
- Compression wear or braces for flare-prone joints
- Travel-sized lotions or creams for skin symptoms
- A doctor’s note for medications or mobility aids
Having everything in one place reduces stress and ensures you can respond quickly to any symptoms that pop up.
6. Be Kind to Yourself
Perhaps the most important tip of all and the one most often dismissed: listen to your body and honor its needs.
Traveling with PsA doesn’t mean you must miss out; it just means traveling smarter.
If plans change, that’s okay. If you need to rest while others explore, that’s okay too. You deserve a vacation that supports your health as much as it supports your sense of adventure.
So go ahead and book that trip, pack your essentials, and embrace summer travel on your terms. With the proper preparation and a compassionate mindset, you can enjoy a safe, meaningful, and stress-free summer wherever the road (or runway) takes you.
