10 Travel Tips

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Hydration

Carry a water bottle with you. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine.

Staying hydrated during travel is vital in order to support optimal brain function, minimize potential complications and promote overall well being throughout your journey.

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Stimulation

Use sunglasses and earplugs/noise cancellation headphones.

Reducing stimulation while traveling is important to prevent sensory overload, minimize cognitive fatigue, and maintain a stable and comfortable environment.

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Breaks

Schedule quiet breaks in between activities to nap or rest.  Even closing your eyes for a few minutes while in the parking lot can feel refreshing.

Scheduling quiet breaks or downtime when traveling is essential to manage sensory stimulation, prevent fatigue, and support cognitive well-being during the trip.

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Plan

Plan your agenda ahead of time—use checklists as needed.

Planning an agenda ahead of time helps reduce stress, maintain a structured routine, and effectively manage energy levels and cognitive resources throughout the trip.

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Reminders

Set up reminders to complete your checklist of items.

This is critical to help stay organized, minimize forgetfulness or cognitive overload, and ensure that necessary essentials are met throughout the trip.

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Help

If possible, allow family and loved ones to help when it comes to packing, carrying bags, running errands and checklist review.

Allowing someone to help plan a trip and review checklists helps ensure there individual safety, comfort and minimize potential challenges related to the specific injury.

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Distance

Try to plan for a shorter distance if traveling (stay in a hotel or Airbnb in short walking distance to attractions, like the beach).

Planning for short distance trips helps minimize physical and cognitive strain, allows for easier access to necessary resources or medical support, and facilitates better overall management of the injury.

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Routine

Stick to your routine as much as you can.

Sticking to your routine provides a sense of familiarity, stability, and minimizes disruptions to the daily activities and cognitive functioning.

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Accommodations

Check into travel accommodations  (airline/hotel). The Air Carriers Access Act allows for preferential seating.

This ensures that specific accessibility and safety needs are met, allowing for a comfortable journey and secure stay during the trip.

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Focus on Joy

Even though you can’t take a vacation from your brain injury, you can change your focus to enjoying your time away from everyday tasks and appointments.

Focusing on joy promotes emotional well-being, enhances positive experiences, and cultivates a sense of fulfillment and enjoyment during the trip.