What’s in My Go-Bag: Airplane Travel Essentials for POTS and Adrenal Insufficiency
As anyone traveling with POTS, adrenal insufficiency, or another health condition or disability can tell you, your go-bag matters! It’s not just about convenience; it’s about ensuring you have what you need to stay comfortable, safe, and ready for anything. Here’s a peek into what I keep in my go-bag while traveling:
FOOD & BEVERAGES
Snacks: I always have a few zero-added-sugar Kind Bars, RX Bars, nuts, or homemade gluten-free muffins tucked away for a quick energy boost. I prioritize regular meals and snacks when I travel to reduce the stress on my body and adrenals.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is KEY for me, and I never travel without a bottle I can refill. I love Vesla Copper bottles because of their design and you don't have to clean them often since copper is anti-microbial. Use code EmilyBenson for 10% off your order. Note: It’s not recommended to put anything other than plain water in these bottles. Make sure to use a different vessel for electrolytes!
Ginger or Decaf Green Tea Bags: Perfect for soothing an upset stomach or having a comforting drink on the go.
Buoy, LMNT, or Himalayan Salt: For electrolyte balance and proper hydration—essential for managing POTS symptoms. I look for options without sweeteners or artificial additives.
Use this link for 20% off your order at Buoy! I’ve been loving their Rescue Drops. If you have a chronic illness, they also offer 35% off as part of their Chronic Illness Support program. You can combine both discounts for 55% off!
I like LMNT’s unflavored electrolytes but they also have a ton of flavors.
I fill up a ziplock pill pouch with Himalayan salt and keep it with me to add to food or take with water when I need a boost.
Tech
Headphones: To help block out noise and to zone out to music or a podcast.
Apple Watch: Helps me keep track of my heart rate, blood oxygen, and activity levels.
Travel Adapter & Chargers: Chargers are obviously a must for keeping your devices charged. Don’t forget a travel adapter if traveling internationally!
Camera: I recently upgraded from a Canon DSLR to a mirrorless Sony and I can’t wait to take it on my next trip!
Comfort
Cozy Sweatshirt/Layers: While I generally get hot in most situations, I’ve been on planes that have been so cold it’s miserable. Being comfortable is a priority during travel.
Eye Mask: To help block out light and get some rest, no matter where I am.
Wet Cool Towel: Great for a quick refresh when feeling overheated.
Portable Fan: A lifesaver in hot or stuffy environments.
Travel Pillow: To make napping on the go a bit easier.
Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wristbands: Nausea is something I struggle with daily. I just got these wristbands and can’t wait to see how they work.
Sunglasses: To protect my eyes from bright lights or harsh sun. I bought this cheap pack so I don’t have to stress if they get lost or damaged during travel.
Book & Sudoku: For some light entertainment and distraction.
Personal Care
Essential Oil Rollers: Calming scents like lavender or peppermint can help with stress or headaches. I’ve recently started using a locally-made CBD roll-on for sleep aid and have been loving it.
Travel-Sized Toiletries: Including toothpaste and toothbrush, deodorant, and lip balm.
Tissues: Always handy for unexpected needs (including breakdowns lol).
Hand Cleanser: I like having a mini cleanser spray to keep my hands and the areas around me clean.
Medical
BP Cuff: Monitoring my blood pressure helps me understand what’s going on in my body. I always keep one at home and in the car. Depending on space, I sometimes fly with one too.
Medical ID: I wear either a bracelet or necklace and keep another on my bag, just in case.
Compression Garments: While I’m not religious about wearing compression garments on a daily basis, I do like to wear medical-grade compression leggings or at least compression socks when I travel. Even if you don’t have POTS, compression socks have been known to help prevent swelling in your feet and legs during long flights.
Medication + Vitamins: I never leave home without these. I keep them in my carry-on, not my checked bag.
Emergency Solucortef Injection: This will not apply to everyone but this injection is a must-have for me in case of an adrenal crisis or when I can’t take my meds orally. I also have a written note from my doctor saying I need the injection in case I get questioned about the syringe (has yet to happen).
Traveling with a chronic condition requires a bit of extra planning, but having the right items in your go-bag can make all the difference. These essentials give me peace of mind and help me stay prepared, comfortable, and ready for whatever adventures come my way. What’s in your go-bag? I’d love to hear your tips and tricks for traveling with a health condition and how you #AdventureAsYouAre.
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