Planning for spontaneity sounds like an oxymoron. The whole point of being spontaneous is deciding to do something on the spot, no planning involved. Unfortunately, chronic illness often robs people of the luxury of doing things on the fly, including traveling and vacations. A last-minute decision to hit the road or explore somewhere new? Not possible without first having stable health, making arrangements and accommodations, ensuring you’ve packed enough medication and supplies, and making a dozen other decisions that go well beyond tossing a swimsuit and a toothbrush into a bag.

But here’s the good news: with the right planning, you can be spontaneous while on vacation! It just takes some prep work to give yourself the freedom to say yes in the moment. Here are some tips to help you let your hair down and soak up as much joy from your travels as possible:

1. Realistic Expectations Are Key.
Know your capabilities and your limits, and be honest with yourself. Focus on what you can do and what brings you joy, rather than pushing through activities that might drain you and wreck your ability to enjoy the rest of your trip. Your energy and your health are precious resources - protect them and spend them wisely.

2. Your Environment Matters. A Lot.
Weather, accessibility, safe food options, proximity to medical care - these things can make or break your trip. Choose destinations that support your needs so you can actually relax and enjoy yourself. Being uncomfortable, hangry, in pain, and with no relief in sight is no one’s definition of a good time.

3. Overpack Your Medications and Supplies With Abandon.
Bring double or triple what you’d normally need. Imagine the worst-case scenarios: travel delays, lost luggage, device malfunctions, bubonic plague, alien invasion, zombie apocalypse. Whatever it is, you’ll feel calmer knowing you’re covered. A solid peace of mind is worth the extra luggage.
(Bonus tip: if you're flying, you're allowed to bring an additional carry-on bag for your medication and medical supplies.)

Dedicated carry-on bags for medical supplies make traveling easier.

4. Pack Snacks Like a Toddler Dictated Your Packing List.
Keep your favorite snacks handy at all times, whether you need to treat low blood sugar, tide yourself over until you get to a safe food source, or just because snacks bring you joy and comfort. Snacks rule.

5. Know Your Insurance Like the Lyrics to Your Favorite Song.
If you're traveling outside your hometown, review your medical and dental coverage. Know which facilities are in-network in case of emergency, where you can fill prescriptions, and what your copays will be. And don’t forget to bring your insurance cards with you.

6. Traveling Abroad? Travel Insurance Is Non-Negotiable.
It’s one of those things you’ll almost never need... until the moment you really do. Get it as soon as you book anything, and make sure the plan covers pre-existing conditions. “What could possibly go wrong?” should not be your famous last words.

7. Research Like You’re Planning a Royal Wedding.
Look into places you might want to visit and activities that interest you and compile a long list. Bonus points for attractions that don’t require advanced reservations or that offer flexible change or cancellation policies. That way, you can go with the flow and honor your health with minimal stress.

8. That List in #7? Overdo It Like a Travel Agent on Steroids.
It’s not just any list, it’s a dream list of fun options. Think of it as a luxurious vacation buffet, something for every kind of day. May your biggest problem be choosing between bungee jumping or lounging by the pool.

9. Advocate for Yourself Like a Boss.
If you’re traveling with others, it’s essential to speak up. Suggest activities that work for you, and don’t be afraid to say no or sit something out if you need rest or if something isn’t safe for your body.

10. Schedule Buffer Time.
You’ll need to recharge, both physically and socially. Rest is medicinal and doing nothing is a treasured vacation activity.

Preparation and flexibility are the secret sauce of travel spontaneity when you live with chronic illness. When you’ve got all your ducks in a row, you can actually take advantage of the good days to jump into fun, and do it all with confidence. And with good snacks.

Planning for Spontaneity: Vacationing with Chronic Illness

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