6 Holiday Travel Tips for Amputees
The Holiday season of travel is upon us. Traveling to see family or friends during the Holidays can be exciting, it can also be stressful navigating to your destination as an amputee. Breathe easy and stress less with these 6 tips to make holiday travel more accessible!
1. Book Non-Stop Flights When Possible
When booking flights, plan to minimize the amount of time you spend in the airport. By booking a direct flight, you will be saving energy for your trip ahead! Instead of worrying about how you will get from gate-to-gate, how you are going to transport your equipment, or getting too tired- a direct flight makes traveling that much simpler and less stressful.
2. Check Your Baggage
Check your baggage, so you can focus on easily getting to your gate, and not have to worry about the inconvenience of carrying your luggage with you. Finding an airline that gives you free checked bags, may be worth the higher ticket price.
3. Make Airport Security Simpler
You will most likely require additional screening with an orthotic or prosthetic device. Dress accordingly so you can easily show your devices when requested. Be prepared for pat downs, the extra screening, and swabs.
Extra tip!
Minimize hassle and time spent in line. TSA Pre-check will ensure a speedier, more straightforward screening process after an agent has verified your identity.
4. Bring Spare Equipment
Medical devices travel for FREE! Let your airline know that the bag contains medical devices; the bag should go free of charge. Note that this may only apply to bags that contain only medical devices.
5. Travel Hygiene Is Key
Travel exposes you to more germs than your everyday life. Bring anything you need to keep your orthosis, prosthesis, and skin clean and disinfected. Chlorine wipes, rubbing alcohol, and skin ointments in travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or less are great to keep in your travel bag.
6. Take Time To Rest
Holidays can be filled with scheduled activities and gatherings. Make sure to schedule in some down time when you can and focus on relaxation.
Hope these tips helped - Integrity Prosthetics wishes you a happy holiday season!