10 tips for traveling with multiple sclerosis

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The nation's most-visited national park is also one of the best for leaf peeping. The fall colors in the Great Smoky Mountains arrive as early as mid-September at higher elevations and work their way down. Take a drive along Clingmans Dome Road or the Blue Ridge Parkway for a good look.
America’s national parks offer visitors inspiring and affordable ways to unplug and reconnect with nature. Although not every state has a national park, the National Park Service also oversees national monuments, national historic sites, and national rivers, among other areas. Some parks are iconic, such as Yellowstone and Yosemite, and others are underrated and lightly visited. This list highlights 50 must-see destinations — the best the country has to offer. National parks often charge an entrance fee that grants seven days of access and costs up to $35 a vehicle. An interagency annual pass provides access to all the national parks and other federal fee areas for $80. Seniors 62 or older can buy a lifetime passes for $80 and annual passes for $20. Members of the military are eligible for free annual passes. Fee-free days also are offered occasionally during the year, including Sept. 22 for National Public Lands Day and Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
Slide 1 of 11: If a doctor has recently diagnosed you or someone you know with multiple sclerosis, don't panic. Most people find a way to manage their symptoms, and in doing so they can still do all the things they love to do. Including travel. It may take some extra planning, but with these tips you'll be ready to hit the road (or the air!) in no time.
Slide 2 of 11: Heat has an effect on many people with MS. That doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't go where the weather is warm. Just make sure you have access to air conditioning. You may even want to call ahead and request that the A/C is turned on in your room before you arrive to accommodate your health condition. Also, take note of handicap accessibility if you need it. Not just in the hotel, but around your destination.
Slide 3 of 11: Can your body withstand a flight that takes more than 10 hours? Especially if you’re way back in the Economy section? Think about the length of time it takes to get from point A to point B. You may want to consider paying a little more for premium seats if you’re dead set on traveling that far.
Slide 4 of 11: If you are flying and need extra help onto the plane, make sure you have the required ticket. And a lift to and from the gate, if needed. Thanks to the Air Carrier Access Act of 1986, all U.S.-based airlines must offer those with disabilities assistance onboard and at the airport. Call your airline with questions such as, "How do I set up wheelchair assistance for my trip?" and "When is the best time to call to request wheelchair assistance?"
Slide 5 of 11: Your medication is the most important thing to think about. If you have monthly infusions, plan your trip around your infusion schedule. If you take medication every day, every few days or every other week, make sure you have enough doses for your trip. And it doesn't hurt to bring along some extra medication to prepare for any delays in your travel.
Slide 6 of 11: If you're planning an overseas trip, buying a travel medical insurance plan as a preventative measure is a smart idea. Many insurance plans don't cover you once you leave the U.S., and you never know when an "attack" might happen. Especially if it lands you in the hospital.
Slide 7 of 11: There may be days you don't even feel like leaving the hotel. Pack some snacks so you're not constantly ordering room service.
Slide 8 of 11: Don't be shy when it comes to asking for help. For example: If you need assistance putting your bag in the overhead bin, ask a flight attendant to help you.
Slide 9 of 11: Sleep is important. So even though you're on vacation and may want to do as much as you can, remember to get enough sleep. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, "Lack of restful sleep can cause daytime sleepiness and, in MS, have serious consequences for cognition, fatigue, mood swings, and physical symptoms such as balance, spasticity and pain."
Slide 10 of 11: We get it. There's so much to see and do. But don't run yourself ragged. Even if you're not the type to stick to an itinerary, it's important to schedule your time wisely so your body has time to relax and recuperate. Even if you might need an entire day to catch up.
Slide 11 of 11: No one knows your body the way you do. Leave yourself plenty of time to get from place to place, take breaks when you need to, and don't overdo it. Doing things like buying travel medical insurance and packing snacks are simply preventative measures. Of course, you should enjoy yourself. Just remember to listen to your body and do what's best for your health.

10 tips for traveling with multiple sclerosis

1. Research your trip location

2. Be realistic about how far you can travel

3. Research the pre-boarding process

4. Take stock of your medication

5. Buy travel medical insurance

6. Pack some snacks

7. Ask for assistance

8. Get proper sleep

9. Don’t try to do it all in one day

10. Know your limitations

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