10 top tips for travelling abroad with osteoporosis and related fractures

Going on holiday after fractures can feel daunting but it’s important to continue with the activities you enjoy. Even without fractures, there may be some apprehension and unanswered questions. To help you, we share some tips on how to travel safely and comfortably.

1. Prepare for long walks

If you’re concerned about the possibility of long walks and queues at the airport, you can book their assistance service in advance. They can help with luggage, walk with you, or drive you to your gate. Otherwise, you could take a walking stick seat, also called a ‘perching’ stick, to take the weight off your feet.

You could consider hiring a wheelchair for your holiday from the Red Cross. This would be stored in the hold of the plane. You can find out more on the Red Cross website or by calling 0344 871 1111. You may also want to ask the airline if they can give you extra legroom to accommodate your needs.

2. Take care of your back

If you have back pain, you may want to bring a cushion or support aid to help with the journey, such as a lumbar support cushion, lumbar roll or back support. For longer journeys, some people with spinal fractures feel more confident wearing a soft brace (a back support for short-term use that restricts movement and supports your back).

3. Stay alert

While on holiday, you might feel like trying new activities. If you do, just be mindful of listening to your body – for example, being aware of any pain you’re experiencing and adjusting decisions about activities accordingly.

4. Keep your medication in your hand luggage

If you’re flying, keep your medication with you in your hand luggage because injectable drugs can be affected by plane hold conditions. Ensure you have enough medication for your trip and a little extra for unexpected delays. 

5. Watch the water

In the UK, you’re advised to use only tap water for taking alendronic acid. Mineral water has higher levels of some minerals that can affect absorption. If the water isn’t safe where you're travelling, it's fine to use mineral water for a short period. If you can, choose the mineral water with the lowest level of calcium.

6. Keep your medications cool

Some medications need to be kept cool. Do read the instructions on your specific medication to check how long it can stay out of the fridge. Airlines typically do not provide refrigeration on flights. However, refrigeration travel cases are available that keep medications cool for up to 36 hours. Your osteoporosis nurse or pharmacist may be able to help with this. Otherwise, the drug company that produces your medication may supply one. If not, you can buy one online. They are often advertised for use by people with diabetes who need to carry insulin.

7. Get a letter from your GP

It’s advised to take a supporting letter from your doctor explaining the medications you’ve been prescribed and, where applicable, why you need to carry hypodermic needles. Ask your doctor to include the drugs’ generic names in case you have to replace them while you're away. They may charge you for this. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your prescription and the medication in the original packaging. This makes it easier for security and customs to see what you're carrying and why.

8. Check the restrictions

Some countries have restrictions on the types of medications you can bring into the country. Contact the embassy of the country you're travelling to in order to find out if this will affect you. 

You can also check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office country advice at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Government advice for travellers needing to carry medication or medical equipment can be found at fitfortravel.nhs.uk and gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions

9. Declare your condition to your travel insurer

It’s important to declare a diagnosis of osteoporosis when taking out travel insurance because having a higher risk of breaking a bone may affect your options and costs. Make sure the policy includes repatriation costs to fly you home should you need it.

You can apply for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for free, which provides access to state-provided healthcare abroad, including emergency treatment and visits to A&E. To find out more, visit nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad

10. Getting help abroad

If you need to see a doctor while you’re away, you can contact your travel insurance provider to see if they have a network of approved doctors at your destination. Otherwise, you can find country-specific advice at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Getting back to daily life after fractures

We’ve got lots more advice on daily living after fractures, including how to exercise safely, in our fact sheets and films.