Traveling With Lymphedema: Tips for Planes, Car Trips and Vacation
Lymphedema doesn't have to keep you home. Long hours sitting still, lower cabin pressure on flights, heat and carrying heavy bags can all make swelling worse, but a little planning goes a long way. Here's how to enjoy your trip and come home without a flare-up.
Before you go: packing list
Extra garments. Pack at least one spare of each, plus your night garment, in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed.
Donning gloves and a small bottle of garment wash for washing in the sink.
Bandages or an adjustable wrap in case of a flare-up, if your therapist has taught you to use them.
Skin care: moisturizer, sunscreen, insect repellent, antiseptic wipes and bandages.
Medications, including any antibiotics your doctor has prescribed to keep on hand for infection.
Your doctor's contact information and a short note describing your condition.
Luggage with wheels so you don't carry heavy bags with your affected arm.
Traveling with your pump
A compression pump is a medical device and can usually go in your carry-on. Tell the TSA officer you have a medical device at screening, and bring a letter or copy of your prescription. Check with your airline ahead of time, and pack the pump's sleeve or legging and cords together.
On the plane
Wear your compression garment for the whole flight, put on before you leave home. Lower cabin pressure and sitting still can both increase swelling.
Get up and walk the aisle every hour or so when it's safe.
Move in your seat: pump your ankles, make fists, roll your shoulders and take slow, deep breaths.
Drink plenty of water, and go easy on alcohol and salty snacks.
Ask for help lifting bags into the overhead bin.
In the car
Wear your garment and stop every 1–2 hours to walk around and stretch.
Keep your affected arm or leg from resting in one position for too long.
While you're away
Stay cool. Heat can increase swelling. Skip hot tubs and saunas, and take breaks in the shade.
Protect your skin. Use sunscreen and bug spray, wear water shoes at the beach, and clean any cut or bite right away.
Keep up your routine. Wear your garments, do your exercises and use your night garment as usual.
Know when to get care. If your limb turns red, warm or painful, or you have a fever, see a doctor right away, even while traveling.
Get travel-ready
Planning a trip? Make sure your garments still fit well and order a spare before you go. Midwest Compression can re-measure you in Richland, MI. Call (800) 883-1549 or text (517) 657-5223, or see Your Lymphedema Home Kit.
Helpful resources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor or lymphedema therapist before you travel.
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