Tips for choosing a vacation destination when you have a chronic illness

Vacations are an opportunity to discover new places, but not all destinations are suitable for our needs.  In my post Unrealistic Vacation Expectations, I shared how I changed my own expectations.  Today I am going to help you choose a destination that will increase your chances of having a fabulous vacation.

Accessibility

If you need to use a mobility aid it is in your best interest to choose a destination that is handicap accessible.  Places without paved walkways or that have steep hills will make getting around more difficult than it has to be.

This goes beyond your accommodations, you must also consider all of the places you hope to explore. Imagine expecting a relaxing day at the beach.  That dream will quickly turn into a nightmare if don’t research the location beforehand.  Not every beach is easy to access.  A steep cliff side staircase may be the only way to access it.

Climate

Choose a climate that doesn’t aggravate your condition. Weather often creates havoc in the lives of the chronically ill.  If storms increase your pain, going to Florida during hurricane season would not be a wise choice.  Alaska in the winter would be ludicrous if cold weather makes you miserable. I have many friends and family members that live in Arizona.

My daily pain level when living there was awful with the exception of spring and fall.  Instead of saying I will never visit Arizona I choose to only visit during the seasons in which the weather has less opportunity to ruin my vacation.

Abilities

Choose activities that fit your abilities. Instead of setting myself up for failure by choosing activities that require me to be more physically active than when I am at home, I underestimate what I will be able to do.  Walking for 30 minutes in the grocery store increases my pain level and exhausts me.

With that in mind, it would be unreasonable for me to expect my body to handle a day filled with activities that required me to walk.  I plan all of my vacation adventures with the expectation of having to use a mobility aid. Sometimes I get lucky and don’t need them for the whole trip.  Recognizing my limitations and planning with them in mind has resulted in less time spent alone in the hotel.