Travel & Fibromyalgia

Like a lot of people, I traveled to see family for the Thanksgiving holiday. I flew from the rain and fires in California to the cold and possibility of snow in Detroit, Michigan.

This is required some preparation as I don’t don’t do well in cold, but so far wearing four layers seems to be working- but it’s supposed to snow on the day I leave so keep your fingers crossed for me!

As much as I love to travel, it isn’t easy with Fibromyalgia. Being cramped in a plane and sleeping on air mattresses or sofas or lumpy hotel beds isn’t exactly ideal. Plus, there’s activities and lots of action you don’t want to miss out on, so you try to force yourself to do more than you generally would, but don’t want to overdo it because you have to get back to work and life after the vacation is over and don’t want to work yourself into a flare- it’s a difficult rope to walk.

I think my biggest struggle has been the bags- or rather, the weight of them. My purse especially. I need the gloves, beanie, medication, glasses, and other items I keep in there, but it makes for a heavy load to carry which tires me out more quickly than I otherwise would, but I also wouldn’t be able to stay out or enjoy myself as much without all the things I am carrying. I’m not a fan of backpacks, and especially with rain I feel like purses can be better protected and tucked under an arm where with a backpack you just hope it doesn’t get soaked through. Even with the luggage, you want to bring everything you need but you also need to be able to carry it- not always easy when muscle weakness and fatigue is a common symptom of Fibromyalgia.

It’s little things like this that most people tend to forget. I’m lucky I’m that my companions have been fine with taking frequent breaks so I can save my energy as much as possible.
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I hope you all all are managing your holiday travels well and not experiencing many symptoms so you can enjoy your travels.

​Gentle hugs,

​Heather, Fabulous Fibro-Fighter and FSC Founder