Pressurized aircabins are terrible during a flareup because there is already swelling. I had a nightmare trip from Johannesburg to Atlanta and onwards to San Diego. It was early in the disease and I didn't realize I was in a full flare up. I had to be taken off the flight In Atlanta in a wheelchair, in absolute agony. Missed my San Diego flight too. Be careful...be ready: have extra prednisone, anti-inflammatory medication, painkillers and a heating pad that can be used in a microwave.

Carry a jar opener in your purse; the flat rubber grip kind. Wear easy pants, so easy quick pit stops. I use a sticky clip on back of cellphone for my ID and electronic ticket on my phone. I love my small goes under the seat roller case, so I’m not carrying anything. I also take my puffer coat rolled in a stuff bag especially for business class sleeper chairs. I lay my hand on it, put it next to cold side of the plane, extra back support and even sit on it for hip pain. I am not a huge person, so I love the extra round pillow Cushing.

I get a steroid shot before any vacations and take extra prednisone with me, your doc can give you extra if you let them know your going on vaca, have fun!!

Wheeled backpack with looped U-shaped handle for stowing your purse, so u have just one carry on & don’t have to carry anything. Also I put a stick on card file holder on the back of my cell phone for my driver license & use an electronic boarding pass. It is easy to handle. Only we know how painful getting cards into & out of a billfold can be.

If you're driving, make frequent stops and walk around and drink plenty of water. If you're flying take some airborne before and even though you don't have to, wear a mask. Prepandemic, I used to get sick then I would flare and feel like junk when I wanted to visit...no fun. Bon voyage, it'll be great.