My Journey with Fibro & Flight
When people think of travel, they picture spontaneity and freedom. But when you live with fibromyalgia, travel becomes a carefully choreographed dance between preparation and acceptance.
Before my recent trip to Dubai, I planned everything—and I mean everything. From pre-booking wheelchair assistance to choosing accommodations close to amenities, I did my research like my body depended on it (because it did).
But even with all the planning in the world, I quickly learned that the most important travel skill is flexibility.
The Power of Preparation
I booked my flight nearly six months in advance, informed the airline of my condition, and made special assistance requests to help with mobility. I packed heat patches, my medication, compression wear, Epsom salts, a flare kit, and even a small diffuser to make hotel rooms feel like home.
I created an itinerary with built-in rest days and gentle activities, prioritizing locations that had shade, seating, or quiet zones.
Why? Because planning reduces stress—and stress triggers flares.
But I also made peace with the fact that even the best-laid plans can go sideways.
Expecting the Unexpected
Despite all the communication, I was still given a cramped seat with no leg room and dealt with a staff member who spoke rudely when I requested to board early due to disability. I was embarrassed, frustrated—and in pain before the journey had even begun.
That moment reminded me: traveling with fibro means preparing mentally just as much as physically. You need tools for your body and tools for your spirit.
So, I practiced what I preach: I slowed down, adjusted my breathing, reminded myself that discomfort is temporary, and leaned into my faith. That one painful start didn’t define my trip—it just became a part of my story.
Tips for Fellow Fibro Travelers
If you’re planning your own journey with fibro (or any chronic illness), here are some lessons from the road:
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Overprepare, then release expectations.
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Always book ahead—but be ready to rest.
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Call ahead and confirm your support services (twice).
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Build in buffer time—between flights, events, and even meals.
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Carry a small comfort kit: meds, heat pads, snacks, calming oils.
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Communicate clearly—but know that not everyone will understand. Grace is for you, not just them.
What I Gained From the Journey
Traveling with fibromyalgia doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing things differently.
It means learning to say “no” without guilt and “yes” without fear.
It means soaking in the sunrise with tears in your eyes because you made it—despite everything.
My trip reminded me that life doesn’t pause because of pain.
It shifts, softens, reroutes—but it still moves forward.
You just have to move with it, at your own pace.
Final Words
Fibromyalgia changes how we live—but it doesn’t change our right to live fully.
You don’t need to prove anything.
You just need to plan with intention, travel with care, and let go of the rest.
So here’s to the slow travellers.
The adaptable adventurers.
The ones who carry medicine in one hand and dreams in the other.
You’re doing amazing. ✨
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