Travelling can be an exciting adventure, but as someone living with Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), it requires careful planning and preparation, regardless of the destination.

Our frequent traveller and CEO of ITP Australia and New Zealand, Danielle, has provided her top 12 tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip!

Talk with your GP & Haematologist

1. Schedule a Pre-Travel Check-Up:

• Before any trip, I always meet with my GP and haematologist to ensure they’re happy for me to travel. We assess my current health status and check that my vaccines are up to date.
• This discussion includes any potential risks associated with my destination and the availability of medical facilities.
• At this time, I make sure that I have all my scripts up to date so that, as mentioned further down, I will be prepared in an emergency or I’m away longer than planned.

2. Obtain Necessary Documentation:

• I carry a letter from my doctor detailing my condition, medications, and any special requirements. This letter is crucial in emergencies and for security checks at airports.
• Having copies of my medical records, including recent blood test results and immunisation history, gives me additional peace of mind.

Medication Management

3. Pack an Adequate Supply of Medications:

• I always bring enough medication to last at least double the trip period. This includes any antibiotics (as I’ve had a splenectomy) and rescue medication, including corticosteroids.
• Medications stay in my carry-on luggage to prevent loss or damage. I also keep the medicines in their original packaging to avoid issues at customs and travel with a copy of any scripts.

4. Know Medication Regulations:

• Researching the medication regulations of my destination country ensures my medications are allowed and if any specific documentation is required.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Plans

5. Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance:

• I don’t leave home without a valid travel insurance policy that covers pre-existing conditions, including ITP. It must include coverage for medical emergencies, possible hospitalisations, and medical evacuation if necessary.

6. Identify Local Medical Facilities:

• Before travelling, I research hospitals and clinics near my destination that can manage ITP and note their contact details and locations.

In-Flight and Destination Considerations

7. Stay Hydrated and Move Regularly:

• Long flights can increase the risk of blood clots. I wear compression socks, drink plenty of water and move around the cabin regularly to improve circulation.

8. Protect Yourself from Infections:

• ITP can make me more susceptible to infections. I practice good hygiene, use hand sanitisers, and avoid contact with sick individuals.
• I only drink bottled water at each location to avoid any potential issues like Traveller’s Diarrhoea. If this does occur, I have a plan and stick to it.

9. Be Cautious with Activities:

• I avoid high-risk activities that could lead to injury or bleeding, such as extreme sports.

Diet and Lifestyle

10. Maintain a Healthy Diet:

• Eating a balanced diet supports my immune system. While I have several dietary restrictions, I’ve also been known to travel with food that I know won’t cause any problems. These can include staple items like dry biscuits, muesli bars and even a small tub of Vegemite.

11. Manage Stress:

• Travelling can be stressful, and at times, this has contributed to my ITP. While travelling, especially for work, I practice relaxation techniques such as meditation and walks and schedule some downtime.
• I travel with earplugs to make sure that I get a good night’s sleep each night, as sleeping in a place other than home can come with its own disturbances.

12. Emergency Contacts:

• Lastly, I give my emergency contact a copy of my itinerary, insurance, and passport (for international travel).
• I also include a copy of my emergency contact details in my passport (in pencil), in my travel wallet, and on me at all times.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with ITP is entirely possible with proper planning and precautions. You can fly and enjoy your travels while staying safe and healthy by consulting your GP and your haematologist, managing your medications, and being prepared for emergencies.

Bon voyage!

*For more personalised advice, always consult your healthcare provider and stay updated on the latest guidelines for managing ITP during travel.