Sometimes we have to make a decision about whether we should take a short plane ride to our destination or a long car ride. There are many things to consider when figuring out which choice works best for your fibromyalgia. You’ll want to consider how long it takes to get to the airport because traveling to and from the airport adds travel time to your trip. If you’re taking a shuttle (or public transit) it can be pretty uncomfortable sitting and wrangling luggage too. Also, will you need to take pain killers if you drive and are sitting for such a long time? Taking strong pain killers while driving is something to avoid, so if you answered yes to that question I’d strongly consider flying.

Think about whether or not the time in the car will make your fibromyalgia flare up more than the shorter amount of time you’ll be at the airport and flying. For me, a short plane ride (2 1/2 hours or less) isn’t too painful, but driving for long periods will make my wrist tendinitis flare up for a week. Since I want to enjoy my time at my destination, flying on a short plane ride makes the most sense for me.

If you’re considering driving, another aspect to consider is how comfortable you are sleeping in hotel beds. You’ll probably need to spend the night somewhere at least once along your route. If sleeping in hotel beds always makes your back hurt or you don’t get much sleep in them, it sets you up for a more painful and harder time driving.

If you have any food sensitivities or allergies I actually think flying is easier. On a longer road trip you’ll have to figure out more meals and snacks and you’re at the mercy of whatever stores and restaurants are along your route. I’ve found that restaurants in rural areas don’t seem to know about food allergens or how to help figure it out. It can add quite a bit of time to a meal (and your trip) trying to teach them and wait for answers. Sure, you can bring some food along, but you can only keep perishable foods cold for so long. I’ve never had a hard time bringing a decent amount of snacks through the security check point at the airport. If my snacks aren’t enough I’m usually able to at least find some fruit inside the airport.

To help you make this type of decision, check out my posts with tips for traveling: Tips and Tools for Traveling via Car, Tips & Tools for Traveling via Airplane – Part I, Tips & Tools for Traveling via Airplane – Part II and Tips & Tools for Traveling.

Do you prefer a short plane ride or a long car ride?

Don’t be afraid to travel!*

*Image Credit: from www.flickr.com by kthread