Guest Voice: My tips for smooth air travel with MS

Aranzazu Calzado, known to friends as Zazu, has lived in Houston, Texas, since 1996 after moving from Spain. She was diagnosed with primary progressive multiple sclerosis in 2021 and faces the challenge with resilience, faith in God, family, and friends as her support network. She finds joy in helping others as a pharmacist, and her passions include travel, photography, reading, cooking, and socializing. Zazu hopes to inspire others on their multiple sclerosis journey and remind them that they aren’t alone.

I recently had the joy of visiting my family in Spain, during a wonderful trip filled with laughter, love, and good food. But getting there smoothly didn’t happen by accident. Because I live with multiple sclerosis (MS), I’ve learned that planning ahead is key to making travel not only manageable but also truly enjoyable.

From the moment I begin thinking about a trip, I start planning how to make the journey as stress-free as possible. It’s all about giving myself time, comfort, and flexibility.

The first step is booking the right flight. Whenever I can, I choose direct flights. It’s one less thing to worry about: no rushing through a huge airport to make a tight connection and no wondering if my wheelchair assistance will show up on time.

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If I do have a connecting flight, I make sure there’s plenty of time between them, as I don’t want to be running from one gate to another. I’d much rather be sitting comfortably in an airport lounge, sipping a glass of wine and reading a book than stressing out and risking a flare-up from unnecessary anxiety or exhaustion.

Speaking of comfort, I always select wheelchair assistance when I book my ticket. This has been a game changer. A staff member meets me at or near the check-in counter, helps me through security, and escorts me to my departure gate. It makes a huge difference, not just physically, but also mentally. I don’t have to figure things out on my own in a busy, unfamiliar airport.

Plus, with this assistance, I can preboard the plane, which gives me time to stow my carry-on, get to my seat without pressure, and settle in peacefully before the rest of the passengers begin boarding.

Once I land, there are a couple of ways to handle deplaning. I can wait until all the other passengers have exited the aircraft and then get my wheelchair at the gate. But I’m usually ready to move! So I typically disembark with the rest of the passengers. Most of the time, the wheelchair and assistant are already waiting right outside the aircraft door. Occasionally, there’s a short wait, but because I plan for that possibility, it’s never a problem.

During layovers, I ask to be taken to a lounge where I can relax, charge my phone, have a snack, and just breathe. When it’s time to board the next flight, the staff will return to bring me to the gate.

Now, here’s a topic most people don’t talk about enough: digestion. If you have MS, you probably already know how unpredictable our digestive systems can be. I often say mine is like Houston’s weather: It can change in a minute!

That’s why I’m careful about what I eat before and during flights. I recommend sticking to what your body knows. Avoid anything new, even if you’re tempted by the airport food court. I’ve learned this the hard way, and trust me, an upset stomach at 30,000 feet isn’t fun.

Many airlines offer special meal options if you request them in advance. But if you’re like me and want more control, you can bring your own snacks or a light meal.

One simple habit has saved me more than once: I pack a change of clothes in my carry-on. Even if your checked luggage has always arrived on time, you never know when your suitcase might take a detour. Having an extra outfit gives me peace of mind. Plus, if I need to freshen up, it’s right there.

I also keep any essential medications and personal items close. That includes daily prescriptions and anything I might need for pain management, hydration, or unexpected symptoms.

Traveling differently

People often ask me how I manage to travel alone with MS. The answer is planning and confidence. I’ve traveled solo across multiple continents — from America to Africa and just about everywhere in between. While there are things you can’t control (like delays or occasional mix-ups), it can go smoothly if you give yourself time and stay ahead of your needs.

Living with MS doesn’t mean giving up travel. It just means traveling a little differently — and that’s OK. With the right support and smart strategies, the world is still within reach.

If you’re nervous about traveling with MS, I hope my experience shows that it’s possible — and even enjoyable. Take your time, trust your instincts, and never hesitate to ask for help. The journey is just as important as the destination, and you deserve to enjoy both.

Traveling with MS or any disability may require more planning, but it’s worth it. By prioritizing comfort, accessibility, and health, you can travel with confidence and ease.

Your disability doesn’t define your limits. Your courage, curiosity, and preparation do. The world is open to you. Go explore it.

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