What do I need for going away?
- Checklist – things for people with a serious illness to consider before travel
- Are you fit to travel safely? Discuss your fitness to travel with your GP, as airlines and insurance companies may request proof of this.
- Do any special arrangements need to be made for travelling?
- Will you need an escort?
- Will special equipment need to be provided?
- Have you let the airline/ferry company/car hire company etc. know about any special needs that you have?
- Have you packed your Blue Badge?
- Do you need particular vaccinations for the area you are travelling to?
- Have you got enough medicines/medical supplies for the whole time away?
- Carry all supplies as hand luggage and don’t let go of it.
- Make sure you have your passport and an additional form of proof of UK residence, such as a driver’s licence.
- Take your European Health Insurance Card, if you are visiting European Union countries.
- Take your travel insurance policy and certificate.
- Take any relevant vaccination certificates.
- If you’re flying, book in early and ask for a seat with plenty of legroom.
- Have you got import and export licences for medicines, if these are needed?
- Do you have a medical summary from your doctor to take with you?
- Do you and your escorts have adequate travel insurance?
- If you have a stoma, does your hotel have ensuite facilities? It may help to ask if where you will be staying has facilities to dispose of appliances.
- Take photocopies of all your documentation with you including; passport, drivers license, insurance policies and certificates, doctors letter(s) and medication summary.