If you have a medical condition, don’t dismiss hiking vacations. Nowadays, travel isn’t restrictive. You can visit places and achieve life-long accomplishments. Don’t let your medical condition stop you from seeing the world. To go hiking abroad safely, we’ve got five top tips. Check them out and get planning an exciting trip:
1. Take Friends
Hiking is better in company. It’s also safer. Also, if you can talk while you’re walking, you’re walking at the perfect speed – so get chatting with your friend.
2. Think About Storing and Carrying Any Medication or Equipment
The less you carry, the more enjoyable your hike will be. But you’ve got to think about what essentials you’ll need. Some medical supplies might be heavy. It will be beneficial to have a friend to share the load with, but think about what you can leave behind. Out of the following list, what do you need to take on a hike and what can you return to at the end of the day?
- Insulted pouch or bag (for medication)
- Pain relief
- Diarrhea treatments
- Insect repellents and mosquito nets
- Sunscreen and eye protection
- Altitude sickness tablets
- Dressing and bandages
This hikers’ essential medicine kit also recommends talking to your doctor, who can advise what vaccinations you need, and if any changes to managing your medical conditions are necessary.
Also remember to bring along the Hiking Lady’s 10 Essentials!
3. Know Your Abilities and Choose a Hike Accordingly
When you’re hiking with a medical condition (whether it’s asthma, diabetes, a heart condition, knee or back problems, or any other health or medical issues), you should be limiting both your exertion and your exposure to the heat.
As these hiking tips explain, the altitude, strenuous climbing, dehydration, and intense inner heat will combine to make any medical problem worse. Always stay within your training, physical limitations, and abilities.
4. Find Out About Local Medical Facilities
Before you choose a destination, research the medical facilities and what you should expect, if something bad did happen. In case of emergencies, you should also carry a medical card on you at all times (especially when hiking). It will help inform the professionals quickly. Your medical card should include information such as:
- Your General Practioner’s name and contact information
- Your relevant health insurance information
- Your full travel insurance information
- The names of all medication being taken
- A full list of allergies and illnesses
5. Stop, eat and drink often
You’re going on a hike – it’s not supposed to be a test of your endurance. More than anything, it’s supposed to be fun. So don’t worry about stopping often. You need the breaks to regain some energy by having a drink and something to eat.
Even on day hikes, you should be taking some food and a small amount of electrolyte replacement. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty or hungry though – have regular breaks.
What tips do you have for hiking with a medical condition? Have you done it before? Please share your advice!
Happy trails 🙂