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Tips for Flying with Arthritis

Flying with Arthritis? No worries—with a little preparation you can transform your journey into an enjoyable experience. Travel should be about making memories, not stressing over discomfort. Here are our top five travel hacks to help you soar with confidence!


Open suitcase with packing essentials

Keep Moving, Even at 35,000 Feet

Sitting too long can lead to stiffness, so book an aisle seat to make movement easier. Need more wiggle room? Many airlines offer extra legroom seats for a small fee. Even in your seat, you can do simple stretches like ankle circles and knee lifts. Stay loose, stay comfy, and enjoy the ride!

Hot or Cold? Bring Both.

Heat loosens stiff joints, while cold reduces swelling—so why not have both? Pop a few disposable hand warmers in your bag for instant relief. Prefer cold therapy? Bring an empty zip-lock bag and ask a flight attendant for ice. A little planning goes a long way.

Get the Right Travel Insurance

When booking travel insurance, make sure to declare athritis as a pre-existing condition. Choose a policy that includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost medication coverage.

Medication: Keep It Close, Keep It Handy

Your medication is essential—keep it close and within reach! Store it in your carry-on, clearly labelled, and in its original packaging to breeze through security without a hitch. If you take prescription meds, a doctor's note can be helpful.

Pre-Flight Prep List

Set yourself up for success before takeoff with these easy steps:

Pack pain relief and joint supports in your carry-on
Check security rules (you might need a doctor's note)
Inform your airline in advance if you need assistance

With these steps, you'll be ready to take on new adventures with confidence. Arthritis doesn't have to stand in the way of your travel dreams. So pack your bags, follow these tips, and enjoy the journey.

Image of a plane in the sky with light clouds

This guide is here to offer helpful tips and general advice, but for tailored guidance specific to your health and travel plans, it's always best to consult your doctor before you go, notify your airline, and plan ahead for any challenges along the way.

Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited, registered office address: Ashford Road, Newingreen, Hythe, Kent CT21 4JF.

Holiday Extras Cover Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 828848. You can check this by visiting the Financial Services Register

Holiday Extras™ is a Trading Name of Holiday Extras Cover Limited. The insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is a company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 13436330 and whose registered office address is 10 Fenchurch Avenue, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 5BN.

Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm Reference Number 955859. You can check this by visiting the Financial Services Register