Traveling during cancer treatment: essential advice for traveling safely
Cancer treatments require a lot of energy, physically and emotionally. So, the desire to get away, to change scenery, to breathe something other than the atmosphere of hospitals is natural.
Good news: yes, it is possible to go on vacation during cancer treatment, provided you prepare your trip well so that this time benefits both body and mind.
Here are the practical tips from Laboratoire RENASCOR for traveling with peace of mind, even during chemotherapy or oncological treatment.
1. Consult your oncologist before leaving
Discussing your plans with your doctor is the first step. They can:
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Advise you on the best time to travel according to your treatment protocol.
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Possibly reschedule certain sessions so that your trip takes place at the most suitable time.
Tip: don’t hesitate to prepare a list of questions before the consultation.
2. Prepare your medications and medical documents
Traveling while undergoing cancer treatment requires a minimum of organization:
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Always bring more medication than needed for the length of your stay.
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Keep them in an insulated bag to prevent any heat-related degradation.
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Keep them in your carry-on luggage if you are flying.
Also remember to bring:
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Your Vitale card or European Health Insurance Card (if traveling in Europe).
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Your supplementary health insurance certificate.
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Your medical prescriptions.
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A medical certificate attesting to your health condition and the necessity of your treatments.
3. Anticipate medical needs on site
Before you leave, find out about the medical facilities nearby your place of stay.
If you are going away for an extended period, your oncologist can forward your medical records to a local hospital.
Important: if you are on sick leave, obtain your primary care doctor’s approval for travel outside your department and inform your Social Security fund.
4. Traveling abroad: specific procedures
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In Europe: request your European Health Insurance Card several weeks before departure.
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Outside the European Union: some countries require vaccinations. Discuss this with your oncologist, who will check their compatibility with your treatments.
5. Protect your health during outings
In case of neutropenia (a decrease in white blood cells), it is preferable:
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To avoid crowds and crowded enclosed spaces.
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To wash your hands regularly.
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To use hydroalcoholic solutions.
6. Physical activity: opt for gentle activities
Ask your doctor which activities are suitable for your condition.
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Walking is ideal for enjoying the air and maintaining a minimum level of activity.
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Avoid intense or risky sports.
7. Sun: increased vigilance
Cancer treatments make the skin very sensitive to UV rays.
In your suitcase:
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Sunglasses
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Hat
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Lightweight, covering clothing
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Fragrance-free sunscreen without allergens, parabens, aluminum, or irritating substances
No tanning: direct sun exposure can be dangerous.
In summary
Going on vacation during cancer treatment is possible and beneficial, if the trip is well prepared.
With a bit of anticipation and by listening to your body, you can treat yourself to a restorative break while respecting your treatment protocol.
Laboratoire RENASCOR – World experts in post-cancer hair reconstruction, by your side for every step of your recovery.
