Travel Tips for People with Arthritis: How to Explore the World Comfortably

Key Takeaways

• With proper planning, most destinations are accessible to people with arthritis
• Movement during travel is essential—prolonged sitting worsens stiffness
• Pack strategically: medications, mobility aids, and comfort items in carry-on
• Request accommodations early—airlines, hotels, and attractions want to help
• Build rest into your itinerary—pacing prevents flares
• Travel insurance with medical coverage is essential

Arthritis shouldn’t mean the end of travel adventures. With thoughtful planning and the right strategies, you can explore new places, visit loved ones, and create memories—all while managing your joint health.

The key is preparation. A little extra planning before your trip prevents a lot of pain and frustration during it.

Before You Go: Planning for Success

Consult Your Healthcare Team

2-4 weeks before travel:

• Discuss your travel plans with your doctor
• Ensure vaccinations are current if traveling internationally
• Get extra prescription refills (enough for your trip plus emergencies)
• Request a letter describing your condition and medications (helpful for customs)
• Ask about adjusting medication timing for time zone changes

Choose Your Destination Wisely

Consider these factors when selecting where to go:

Climate:

• Warm, dry climates often feel better for arthritis
• Extreme cold can increase stiffness and pain
• High humidity may worsen symptoms for some people
• Consider shoulder seasons for moderate weather

Accessibility:

• Research walkability and terrain
• Look for destinations with good public transportation
• Consider cruise ships for built-in accessibility
• Beach resorts often have flat, easy-to-navigate grounds

Medical Care:

• Ensure adequate healthcare is available at your destination
• Know where the nearest hospital is located
• Research pharmacies in case you need supplies

Book Accommodations Thoughtfully

What to request:

• Ground floor room or elevator access
• Walk-in shower (no tub to climb over)
• Firm mattress
• Near the elevator if on upper floors
• Refrigerator for medications that need cooling
• Accessible parking if driving

Accommodation types to consider:

• Hotels with suites (more space to move around)
• Vacation rentals with full kitchens (control over meals)
• Resorts with spa and pool facilities
• Cruise ships (everything in one place)

Arrange Transportation Assistance

Airlines:

• Request wheelchair or cart assistance when booking
• Note this doesn’t mean you can’t walk—it means you get help covering long distances
• Pre-board to have time settling in
• Request an aisle seat for easier movement

Car rentals:

• Reserve automatic transmission
• Request a vehicle that’s easy to enter and exit (test at pickup)
• Ask about hand controls if needed

Trains and buses:

• Book accessible seating in advance
• Look for services with level boarding

Packing Smart

Carry-On Essentials

Never check these items—keep them with you at all times:

Medications:

• All prescriptions in original bottles
• Copies of prescriptions
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Topical treatments (under 3.4 oz for security)
• Any injectable medications with doctor’s letter

Comfort items:

• Neck pillow
• Compression socks
• Small heat wrap or instant heat packs
• Supportive insoles (if not in your shoes)
• Hand sanitizer

Documentation:

• Insurance cards and policy information
• Doctor’s contact information
• List of medications and dosages
• Emergency contact information
• Medical alert information

Mobility Aids

Bring:

• Collapsible cane or walking stick (if you use one)
• Lightweight, foldable walker (if needed)
• Travel-size heating pad
• Assistive devices for daily tasks (jar opener, button hook)

Consider:

• Renting a wheelchair or scooter at your destination
• Many attractions rent mobility devices on-site
• Cruise ships have wheelchairs and scooters available

Clothing and Footwear

Choose:

• Comfortable, supportive walking shoes (broken in before travel)
• Easy-on/off shoes for security screening
• Loose, comfortable clothing for transit
• Layers for variable temperatures
• Compression garments for long flights

Avoid:

• New shoes
• High heels or unsupportive sandals
• Tight or restrictive clothing
• Heavy items you’ll have to carry

Flying with Arthritis

At the Airport

TSA considerations:

• You can request a pat-down instead of standing in the scanner
• Inform officers about joint replacements (may trigger metal detectors)
• Request a private screening if needed
• Mobility aids are screened but always allowed
• Liquid medications over 3.4 oz are permitted with declaration

Getting through efficiently:

• Use airport wheelchair services—they know the shortcuts
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry reduces standing time
• Allow extra time—rushing increases stress and pain
• Wear slip-on shoes and minimal metal for faster screening

During the Flight

Seat selection:

• Aisle seat: easier to get up and move
• Bulkhead: more legroom but armrests don’t raise
• Exit row: extra legroom if you can assist in emergency
• Window: control over cabin air but hardest to exit

In-flight movement:

Get up and move every 30-60 minutes when the seatbelt sign is off. Even standing in the aisle for a minute helps.

Seated exercises:

• Ankle circles (10 each direction)
• Foot pumps (raise heels, then raise toes, repeat)
• Knee lifts (small marching motion)
• Shoulder rolls (forward and backward)
• Neck stretches (gentle side-to-side)
• Wrist circles
• Hand squeezes (open and close fists)

Comfort strategies:

• Use a neck pillow to prevent neck strain
• Place a small pillow or rolled blanket behind your lower back
• Wear compression socks to prevent swelling
• Stay hydrated (dehydration worsens stiffness)
• Avoid alcohol (dehydrating and affects sleep)
• Set a timer to remind you to move

Dealing with Jet Lag

Jet lag can worsen arthritis symptoms. Minimize its impact:

• Gradually adjust sleep schedule before departure
• Stay hydrated during travel
• Get sunlight exposure at your destination
• Take short naps (under 30 minutes) if needed
• Maintain your regular medication schedule or adjust gradually
• Don’t over-schedule your first day

Driving with Arthritis

Preparing Your Vehicle

• Ensure the seat is adjusted for maximum comfort
• Use a lumbar support pillow
• Check mirrors are positioned to minimize neck turning
• Consider a steering wheel cover for better grip
• Have handicap parking permit if eligible

During Long Drives

Stop frequently:

• Every 1-2 hours minimum
• Walk around at rest stops
• Do gentle stretches
• Use restrooms even if you don’t “need” to

In-car stretches:

• Seated cat-cow (arch and round spine)
• Shoulder shrugs
• Neck rolls (at stops only)
• Ankle circles
• Wrist stretches

Sharing driving:

• If traveling with someone who can drive, take turns
• Being a passenger allows you to move more freely

During Your Trip

Pace Yourself

The biggest mistake travelers with arthritis make is trying to do too much.

Build in rest:

• Plan one major activity per day, not three
• Schedule rest time in the afternoon
• Take the hotel shuttle instead of walking sometimes
• Don’t feel guilty about skipping activities

Activity spacing:

• Alternate active days with easier days
• Follow a strenuous activity with a restful one
• Build in buffer days at the end for recovery before returning home

Managing Activities

Sightseeing:

• Take advantage of benches along the way
• Use hop-on/hop-off buses to reduce walking
• Consider guided tours with transportation included
• Many museums offer wheelchairs at no charge
• Ask about accessibility options—most attractions want to help

Dining:

• Request a table instead of a booth (easier to exit)
• Ask for chairs with arms for support
• Avoid restaurants with long waits or lines
• Make reservations to reduce standing time

Beach and pool:

• Use beach wheelchairs where available
• Pool exercise can be soothing for joints
• Stay hydrated in the heat
• Use waterproof sunscreen (less reapplication needed)

Dealing with Flares

Even with perfect planning, flares can happen. Be prepared:

Immediate response:

• Rest in your room
• Apply ice or heat as appropriate
• Take medications as prescribed
• Do gentle range-of-motion exercises

When to seek medical care:

• Sudden, severe swelling
• Fever with joint pain
• Pain much worse than your normal level
• Symptoms of infection

Don’t let fear of flares stop you:

• Some discomfort during travel is normal
• Most flares are manageable with rest and medication
• The joy of travel is worth some temporary discomfort

Returning Home

Post-Travel Recovery

Plan for it:

• Schedule a light day after returning home
• Don’t plan important activities right away
• Expect some increased stiffness initially

Get back to routine:

• Resume regular exercise as soon as practical
• Return to normal sleep schedule
• Stay hydrated
• Contact your doctor if symptoms don’t settle within a few days

Frequently Asked Questions

Will travel make my arthritis permanently worse?

No. While you may experience temporary increased symptoms, travel doesn’t cause lasting damage to your joints. The benefits of experiences and memories far outweigh temporary discomfort.

Should I bring my own pillow?

If you have a travel-sized pillow that helps you sleep, absolutely. Hotel pillows vary widely and poor sleep worsens pain. Many people bring their own pillow for the plane and hotel.

What about travel insurance?

Essential. Make sure your policy covers:

• Pre-existing conditions (many do with disclosure)
• Medical evacuation
• Trip cancellation for medical reasons
• Lost or delayed luggage (including medications)

Can I take my medications through airport security?

Yes. Prescription medications in original containers are permitted. Amounts larger than 3.4 oz for liquids are allowed with TSA declaration. Carry a doctor’s letter for unusual medications or quantities.

What if I need a wheelchair but can walk some?

Wheelchair assistance is for anyone who has difficulty navigating airports—you don’t need to be unable to walk at all. Use it strategically: for long distances, when carrying luggage, or when fatigued.

How do I handle time zone changes with medications?

Discuss with your doctor before traveling. General guidance:

• Pain medications: take as needed regardless of time zone
• Once-daily medications: gradually shift timing over several days
• Biologics: maintain interval but time can shift

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Planning your trip? Check out our guides on stress management for chronic pain and joint pain sleep strategies to help you feel your best while traveling.

Last medically reviewed: January 2025

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider about specific travel recommendations based on your health conditions, medications, and destination.