Summer is the season for adventure—whether it’s a road trip up the coast, a flight to visit family, or a much-needed vacation. But for people living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), travel can present unique challenges. From fluctuating symptoms and medication schedules to physical discomfort during long journeys, planning ahead is essential for staying comfortable and avoiding flare-ups.
At Pacific Arthritis, our expert rheumatology team understands how important it is for RA patients to maintain their health while enjoying life’s experiences. Thanks to advancements in virtual care, we now offer telemedicine appointments, making it easier than ever to stay connected to your care team—no matter where your summer plans take you.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to prepare for travel with RA, what essentials to pack, how telemedicine can help, and self-care tips for staying well on the road.
How Travel Can Affect RA
RA is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and fatigue. Even when managed effectively, symptoms can be unpredictable—especially when routines are disrupted. Travel can affect RA symptoms in several ways:
- Changes in climate or elevation may increase joint stiffness or swelling.
- Long periods of sitting (in cars, planes, or trains) can lead to joint discomfort.
- Missed medication doses or improper storage of biologics can trigger a flare.
- Stress and fatigue, common during travel, can impact immune system function.
With some thoughtful planning, however, you can reduce the impact of travel on your RA and focus on enjoying your trip.
Pre-Trip Planning: Don’t Skip the Prep
Before you head out on your summer travels, take time to prepare your body and mind. Start by scheduling a telemedicine appointment with your rheumatologist at Pacific Arthritis. A virtual visit allows us to:
- Review your current medications and make adjustments if needed
- Discuss travel-specific concerns (e.g., long flights, changes in altitude, or activity levels)
- Issue travel letters for medical supplies if required for TSA or customs
- Provide tips for medication storage, especially for injectable or refrigerated prescriptions
Telehealth makes it easy to have these important conversations without needing to visit the office in person. All you need is a phone, tablet, or laptop with internet access.
Telemedicine: Your On-the-Go Health Partner
One of the most helpful tools in managing RA while traveling is access to telemedicine. Our virtual care options at Pacific Arthritis allow you to check in with your rheumatologist from anywhere in California—even if you’re on vacation.
Telemedicine is especially useful for:
- Addressing unexpected flare-ups or symptoms
- Getting prescription refills while away
- Reviewing lab results or test updates
- Providing peace of mind that you’re not managing RA alone
With telemedicine, support is always just a video call away, no matter where the road leads.
RA Travel Essentials: What to Pack
When you live with RA, what’s in your travel bag matters. Here’s a list of essentials to bring along for a smoother, more comfortable trip:
1. Medications
- Bring enough of all medications, including biologics and NSAIDs.
- Store any temperature-sensitive meds (like injectables) in a cooler with ice packs.
- Pack a printed list of your prescriptions and dosages.
2. Assistive Devices
- Travel-sized heating pads or cold packs
- Braces, compression gloves, or joint supports
- Lightweight foldable cane (if needed for long walks or hikes)
3. Comfort Items
- Neck pillow and lumbar support for long rides or flights
- Comfortable walking shoes with proper arch support
- Easy-on clothing and layers for changing climates
4. Doctor Contact Info
- Keep Pacific Arthritis’s phone number and email handy
- Save your upcoming telemedicine appointment link (if scheduled)
- Have your pharmacy’s contact info in case you need a refill on the go
Tips for a Comfortable & Flare-Free Trip
In addition to what you pack, how you travel plays a big role in how your body feels. These RA-friendly travel tips can help minimize joint pain and fatigue:
– Move Regularly
Set a reminder to stretch or walk every 60–90 minutes, especially on flights or long car rides. This improves circulation and reduces stiffness.
– Hydrate Well
Dehydration can increase inflammation and fatigue. Carry a refillable water bottle and sip regularly.
– Plan Rest Days
Build downtime into your itinerary. Pacing yourself prevents overexertion and allows your joints to recover.
– Protect Against Weather Changes
Joint symptoms can worsen in extreme heat or cold. Pack sunscreen, cooling towels, or hand warmers depending on your destination.
– Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Stick to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Minimize sugar and processed foods, which can trigger inflammation.
Post-Trip Check-In
Once you’re back home, consider scheduling a follow-up telemedicine appointment to discuss how your trip went and whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are needed. At Pacific Arthritis, we want to ensure you stay on track—whether you’re at home or abroad.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve the Journey
Living with rheumatoid arthritis shouldn’t mean missing out on the joys of summer travel. With proactive planning, the right gear, and the support of Pacific Arthritis’s telemedicine services, you can explore with greater comfort and confidence.
We’re proud to offer comprehensive rheumatology services—from infusion therapy and ultrasound-guided injections to telehealth care that travels with you.
If you’re planning a trip or want to learn how to better manage RA on the go, schedule a virtual or in-person consultation today. Call us at (310) 297-9221 to get started.
We serve patients across California from our offices in Los Angeles and Santa Monica—and with telemedicine, we’re just one click away, wherever your summer takes you.
