Traveling

This information is provided for your consideration; remember to always consult with your healthcare team.

The most important thing to keep in mind while traveling is to be prepared. You will undoubtedly need to bring a lot with you in order to maintain your treatment while on the road. This includes any medication you regularly use and anything you think you may need in case you get sick while traveling. When traveling abroad by plane it is important to divide your essentials between several pieces of luggage, being sure to take some of your most critical items and medication in your carry-on bag. You want to be prepared to go without a bag if it happens to go missing. Although your luggage space may be limited, avoid the temptation to leave behind something you may need.

Also important is to have a letter from you doctor explaining your condition and listing the medicines you will be taking with you. This will ease any possible complications at customs. Be sure to have listed the correct generic names for your medications, so that they match what is written on the containers you have with you. It is advisable to transport all of your medication in its original containers to avoid confusion and suspicion.

Some cystic fibrosis treatment centers can provide you with the names and contact information for health centers at or near your destination. This could be valuable should you get sick or need to see a doctor. It is also important to keep in mind voltage and outlet differences from country to country in case you use equipment that runs on electricity as part of your treatment. Depending on your itinerary and your destination, it may be difficult to maintain regular exercise and a balanced diet. These are both considerations you should make as part of your pre-departure planning and itinerary decisions.