However you travel for your next trip, the team at Body In Motion is here to help. This week we’re sharing 5 tips for traveling with your prosthetic devices and limbs.
Whether you’re taking a car, bus, train, or plane, you’ll want to prepare well for your next adventure. So, today we’re going to explore 5 can’t-miss tips for your next trip.
If you’re a person with an amputation and prosthetics, there are many things to consider when it comes to travel or vacation planning.
Whether you’re taking a car, bus, train, or plane, you’ll want to prepare well for your next adventure. So, today we’re going to explore 5 can’t-miss tips for your next trip.
Pack Thoughtfully
When those of us with prosthetics begin our packing list we may think of things like extra socks but you’ll also want to consider plastic bags if you plan to use your prostheses near water, a tool kit with a screwdriver if you have any adjustments you might need to make, additional socket liners and even tape in case breaks in the prosthetics happen while you’re away.
In addition to your basic packing list, be sure to consult with your prosthetic doctor before taking a trip as they may also have some suggestions based on your specific device and the type of trip or activity you plan to take on while you’re away.
Touch Base With Your Transportation Provider Before You Leave
If you’re not taking a car, you may want to consider checking in with the transportation provider ahead of time. This can put your mind at ease about guidelines, restrictions, and what happens once you arrive at the gate or station.
If you’re flying, this is a great time to make sure you’re going to be comfortable in your location on the plane. Consider asking for an aisle seat or a bulkhead seat so your legroom and mobility are not as confined. You may also want to explore whether it makes sense to request gate transportation (Some airports have small golf-cart style transportation vehicles to get you to your gate with ease) or a wheelchair to get you to your seat comfortably. Requesting a seat closer to the front of the plane also gives you less territory to traverse to get to your seat and can make the process of boarding and deplaning easier for you.
All flights in the U.S. offer a pre-boarding option for those who have disabilities and may need more boarding time and this also comes with the added benefit of getting a chance to utilize the overhead space for your carry-on items. Take your time getting settled and be sure to communicate with the plane staff if you have any questions or need assistance.
Get Familiar With Tsa Requirements And Your Rights
At the time of this post being published, you do not need to remove your prosthesis to go through TSA security. However, it is always best to check the TSA website (TSA.Gov) for the most up-to-date procedures.
If you choose for whatever reason, to remove your prosthetic limb, be sure to communicate with the TSA staff so that you can do so with privacy and security.
In addition to TSA protocol, if you’re traveling by bus or train you may also want to reach out to that company to see if they have any special security measures in place that you should be aware of. Connecting and communicating can help you enjoy your travel experience far more once it happens.
Anticipate Swelling And Plan To Prevent It
It’s incredibly normal and common to experience swelling when you travel by plane or in a manner where you’re sitting for an extended period of time.
This swelling might make it difficult to put on your prosthetic before deplaning. For many, walking the middle aisle a bit at different points during the flight may help to manage or reduce swelling, and others like to remove the prosthetic completely for the duration of the flight for comfort or personal reasons. Another way to plan for or manage your potential swelling is to try a prosthetic shrinker. While this may not be the right solution for everyone, the goal is to reduce discomfort and swelling while traveling on the plane with your prosthetic device.
Let Your Doctor Get You Cleared For Take Off
We highly recommend making an appointment with your prosthetic doctor to get your device or prosthesis checked, ask any questions, and make any preparations for your flight or other travel plans. This appointment can ensure that your prosthetic is free of loose parts, breaks, cracks, or any issue that might make your trip less enjoyable or less comfortable. This appointment is also an excellent chance to let your doctor know about any unique activities you might engage in. When we discuss your travel or activity plans we can collaboratively come up with ways for you to make the most of those experiences while staying safe and comfortable in your prosthetic.
Conclusion
Whether you’re jet setting or heading out on a road trip, travel with a prosthetic device or limb can present unique challenges. As you begin to plan your next trip, feel free to reach out to the team at Body In Motion.
We’re here to help you keep moving forward and you can reach us at 1-888-272-2303.