Going on holiday

3 minute read

Travelling safely is not a problem for many people with epilepsy
Planning ahead and being organised can reduce the stresses of traveling and make it more enjoyable
Sunflower or hidden disability lanyards were first introduced at UK airports to make the travel experience easier for people with hidden disabilities. Find out more on the travel and public transport page
If you are flying, it’s a good idea to check the policy of the airline you are travelling with. In some circumstances medical clearance might be required
Some anti-malaria medicines are unsuitable for people with epilepsy or interact with epilepsy medicines. If you need any vaccines check with your doctor or pharmacist which ones are safe
You might need a letter from you doctor to cover taking your medicine into another country

Top tips

1
Pack plenty of your epilepsy medicine. Enough to last more than the length of your trip. You might need to order it in advance
2
Keep your medicine in the original packaging and take a copy of your prescription with you
3
Carry your medicine on you and in more than one place. You don’t want to risk losing it
4
If there will be a time difference at your destination, plan what time you need to take your medicine. Set reminders on your phone
5
Make sure you are properly insured. To be covered you will need to declare that you have epilepsy when you buy travel insurance
6
Be extra aware of your triggers when you’re going on holiday. Disrupted sleep, travel stress, missing meals, drinking alcohol are more likely if you are going away
7
If you are travelling with other people, ask them to support you in staying safe
8
Plan to get the sleep that you need
9
Stay safe. If you wouldn’t normally swim alone, cycle, have late nights or drink alcohol try to avoid doing these things while you are away
10
Carrying some medical ID and information about how to help if you have a seizure is a good idea

If you have frequent seizures, telling the cabin staff about your epilepsy will help them to help you if you have a seizure
Sitting in an aisle seat, will make it easier for staff to help you if you have a seizure
Tell airport security staff if you have a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device. It’s possible the VNS device could set off the security scanner alarm
Try to get your usual amount of sleep. If you are travelling across several time zones you could be affected by jet lag. The NHS website has more information about dealing with jet lag
Carry your medicine in your hand luggage with a copy of your prescription (and your letter from the doctor if you have one). You should keep the medicine in its original packaging
It’s a good idea to pack a spare supply in your hold luggage, along with another copy of your prescription, in case you lose your hand luggage
UK airports allow essential medicine to be carried in your hand luggage, including liquid medicine. You will need to show airport staff evidence that the medicine has been prescribed for you, such as a copy of your prescription