Medically Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on November 21, 2023
Bring ID and Emergency Information
1 / 8

Bring ID and Emergency Information

Be ready with medical information in case of an emergency. Wear a medical ID bracelet or necklace. Try MedicAlert, American Medical ID, or RoadID. Pack an info card with a list of drugs to avoid and a list of your medications, including dosage and frequency. Bring a list of your contacts and their phone numbers, including your neurologist, primary care doctor, and friends or family. You can print a wallet card at myasthenia.org.

Pack Well
2 / 8

Pack Well

Always bring a card with your medical info and a list of your current meds. When you fly, keep your meds in a carry-on bag instead of checked baggage. If you need more liquids than the TSA allows in a carry-on bag, bring a note from your doctor. Pack a small bag with wheels so you don’t have to carry your bag long distances, like through an airport or train station. If it’s small enough, it may fit under your seat.

Stay on Track
3 / 8

Stay on Track

Pace yourself. Avoid trying to do or see too much at once. Choose relaxing, slower-paced activities instead of ones that drain your energy. Try doing things in steps. Tour one landmark, then go back to the hotel to relax by the pool or take a nap. Listen to your body. If you don’t feel well, take a step back and get more rest. Stick to your routine as best as you can to lower your risk of a flare.

Take Shortcuts
4 / 8

Take Shortcuts

Pack light so you don’t have to carry too much. Try sending some of your belongings ahead of your arrival. Consider hiring a private driver or a taxi to make it easier to get around. If you plan to do a lot of walking, consider renting a power scooter. You can order one from a medical supply store and have it delivered to your hotel. Bring extra money to pay for last-minute conveniences.

Choose MG-Friendly Accommodations
5 / 8

Choose MG-Friendly Accommodations

When you book a hotel, make sure it has handicap-accessible rooms. Call ahead to see if your room has extras like shower grab bars and wheelchair access. Request a room near the elevator or on the main floor so you don’t have to walk too far. Ask for extra pillows, a late checkout, or anything that makes you more comfortable. Have a bellhop take your bags to your room. To save energy, consider ordering room service instead of going out.

Make Car Travel Relaxed and Comfortable
6 / 8

Make Car Travel Relaxed and Comfortable

Break long car rides into small, 1- to 2-hour chunks. If you’re in the car too long, you may get stiff, which can lead to pain. Make stops along the way to get out, stretch, and walk around. When you drive, prop your arm on a pillow for support. Bring a second driver so you can take turns behind the wheel. When you’re not driving, push your seat back for more legroom. Or sit in the back seat and put up your feet.

Fly Smart
7 / 8

Fly Smart

When traveling by air, book a direct flight if possible. If you have a connection, make sure there’s enough time between your flights. Choose a seat with extra legroom like the bulkhead, where it’s easy to get in and out. Tell the airline if you need a special snack or drink. Get your boarding pass online, before you leave for the airport. Get to the airport early so you don’t have to rush. Consider asking for a wheelchair to save time and energy.

Speak Up for Yourself
8 / 8

Speak Up for Yourself

When you’re away from home, get comfortable talking about MG with people who need to know. One day you may feel fine, but another day you may need help. So it helps to be open and clear with anyone you travel with. Explain if you need rest or you need to be in an air-conditioned room. If you need help pulling your suitcase, let them know. Everyone may not understand MG and how it affects your needs, so remember to speak up.

Show Sources

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1)   Triton21 / Getty Images

2)   ViewStock / Getty Images

3)   Images By Tang Ming Tung / Getty Images

4)   Maskot / Getty Images

5)   Annebel Van Den Heuvel / EyeEm / Getty Images

6)   Ascent / PKS Media Inc. / Getty Images

7)   Daniel Garrido / Getty Images

8)   kali9 / Getty Images

 

 

SOURCES:

Conquer Myasthenia Gravis: “When You Leave Home.”

Myasthenia Gravis Association: “Preparing to Travel with Myasthenia Gravis.”

Myasthenia-Gravis.com: “Traveling With Myasthenia Gravis.”