With the holidays around the corner, travel is always a tempting expectation, and even a nasty case of cancer can’t stop people from this desire. But there are still some preparations to be made before traveling. Health is, after all, a prerequisite for a happy trip. So, what should cancer patients and their families consider before traveling? Consulting your doctor is of course the most important, however, some of the following knowledge may be equally useful. Flying. Some cancer patients may not be suitable for flying, and changes in oxygen levels and atmospheric pressure may occur during the flight. For example, a patient with a brain tumor or someone who has just undergone brain surgery can thus induce or aggravate brain swelling, while increasing brain pressure with headaches, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, or other signs of intracranial hypertension, and in severe cases, life-threatening brain herniation. Patients within 10 days after surgery are also not suitable for air travel, otherwise wound swelling and pain may occur due to changes in air pressure. Changes in atmospheric pressure can also cause lymphedema, especially in patients who have undergone lymphatic drainage, and swelling in the corresponding areas, such as the upper extremities (after breast cancer surgery), the lower extremities, or a particular area of lymphedema. Long distance travel. Patients with cancer, especially lung, stomach, or intestinal cancers, or those who have recently undergone surgery, may not be suitable for extended travel on a continuous basis. Because oncology patients are often combined with hypercoagulability, there is an increased risk of blood clots on prolonged transportation. In fact, flying and being sedentary are inherently high risk factors for thrombosis Physical status. Some treatments for cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, often make people susceptible to fatigue during and after treatment, which may limit the intensity of travel and the speed of travel. Sunlight exposure. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments can make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure, either temporarily or permanently, resulting in greater susceptibility to skin damage. If the travel destination is a beach, or if a significant amount of time is spent outdoors, be aware that you need at least increased UV protection for your skin. Similar attention should be paid to snow due to its strong reflection of the sun. Vaccinations. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and steroid treatment will weaken the body’s immune system, reducing not only your ability to fight disease, but also the effectiveness of vaccines used and administered. So be careful when visiting certain parts of the world. Pre-trip preparation Medications. You should carry them with you for ease of use. Considering the possibility of loss and time delays in transit, medications should be carried in your handbag rather than in your checked luggage. Also, if possible, carry the medication with the original box and instructions to avoid confusion and to facilitate customs inspection. Prevention. To reduce the risk of blood clots, hydrate adequately and stand up and walk around frequently, at least once an hour. Consult your physician, it would be beneficial if aspirin or other anticoagulant medication can be taken during the trip. For lymphedema, an elastic bandage or compression stocking will be beneficial for upper or lower extremity lymphedema and may reduce the chance and severity of the edema. Regular activity is also beneficial Hygiene. Wash your hands frequently and practice food hygiene. Carry medical information. Before you travel, ask your doctor to write a summary of your condition or medication, including allergies, diagnosis and treatment plan, and medications. Keep this paperwork, as well as emergency medical information, with you throughout your trip. If you join a travel agency, you will need to get travel information in advance to coordinate and get help. Examples include dietary restrictions, special accommodations, wheelchairs, and the availability of medical staff and medical services. Remember to keep in mind that travel can be exhausting, and plan some down time to help with fatigue. Finally, try to relax and enjoy your travels!