Travelling with Long COVID feels like navigating a minefield of energy crashes, pain, and the ever-present risk of Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM). For me, one of the hardest decisions when travelling is whether to use a wheelchair. Should I opt for the smoother, more energy-efficient path, or push through on foot with plenty of breaks?
It’s never an easy choice. On good days, I want to believe I can manage without help. On bad days, I know a wheelchair is the only way I’ll make it through. Add my impatience into the mix, and pacing becomes its own battle—I’d like to do everything and keep up with everyone, but the reality of Long COVID demands rest, restraint, and careful pacing.
Here’s how I navigate this dilemma, and what I’ve learned about making the best decision (even when I don’t always get it right).
Why Choose “Wheelchair, Yes”?
Long distances, queues, and the unpredictability of travel can drain energy reserves faster than you realise. A wheelchair offers a lifeline for energy conservation, and for those of us with Long COVID, that can mean the difference between enjoying your destination and spending days recovering in bed.
Benefits of Choosing a Wheelchair
1. Preserving Energy: Walking through airports, stations, or tourist attractions can use up precious spoons. A wheelchair allows you to conserve energy for the activities you actually enjoy.
2. Reducing PEM Risk: Overexertion often leads to PEM, where symptoms worsen for days or even weeks. A wheelchair reduces the strain that could trigger a crash.
3. Minimising Pain: Standing for long periods or walking on hard surfaces can lead to pain flare-ups. A wheelchair helps you avoid this trap.
Why Sometimes It’s “Wheelchair, No”
Despite the practical benefits, I still find myself hesitating. My decision often depends on where I’m going, how much support I have, and—if I’m being honest—how much patience I can muster.
• If I’m travelling alone, I’m much more likely to say “wheelchair, yes.” Navigating unfamiliar spaces without someone to lean on can quickly become overwhelming.
• If I’m with a travel companion who can offer help, I sometimes feel braver. But even then, the decision depends on the size of the airport or station. For large, sprawling spaces, I go with “yes” every time. For smaller ones, I’m tempted to push through on foot, taking as many breaks as I can manage.
Do I always get it right? Absolutely not. Travel is unpredictable. Some days, I overestimate my capacity and regret not choosing the wheelchair. Other times, I pace myself perfectly and wonder why I stressed about it in the first place.
How I Try to Make the Best Decision
To help me choose between “wheelchair, yes” and “wheelchair, no,” I run through a checklist:
1. Am I Travelling Alone or With Support?
Having someone to help with bags, find seats, or simply lend a steady arm makes a big difference. If I’m on my own, I lean heavily towards using a wheelchair.
2. What’s the Size and Layout of the Airport or Station?
Large, unfamiliar spaces mean longer walks and more standing. Even if I feel okay to start, it’s rarely worth the risk of overexertion. Smaller spaces are easier to navigate with plenty of breaks.
3. How’s My Energy Today?
On low-energy days, the decision is easy. On “good” days, I try to be honest with myself about whether I can handle the unexpected (delays, detours, or a long wait in security queues).
4. What’s My Patience Level?
This is where I often struggle. I want to move quickly and keep up with everyone, but Long COVID doesn’t play by those rules. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that pacing is not optional—it’s survival.
5. What Does Recovery Look Like?
I always consider how much energy I’ll need to enjoy my destination and whether I have time to recover after the journey. If pushing through will leave me too exhausted to enjoy the trip, the wheelchair wins.
The Importance of Rest Before and After Travelling
Travel is never just about the journey itself. Preparing your body before you leave and giving yourself space to recover afterwards are crucial to avoiding PEM and crashes.
Before You Travel
• Plan Rest Days: Block out at least one or two rest days before your trip. Skip any unnecessary errands or activities that could drain your energy.
• Pack Early: Avoid last-minute packing sprints by preparing your bags over several days.
• Prioritise Sleep: Good-quality sleep can make a world of difference before travel.
After You Travel
• Clear Your Calendar: Make sure you have no major commitments for at least a few days after returning home.
• Listen to Your Body: Even if the journey went smoothly, recovery time is essential. Rest, hydrate, and pace yourself before diving back into daily life.
Arranging Wheelchair Assistance
If you decide on “wheelchair, yes,” it’s important to plan ahead:
1. Contact Your Airline or Train Provider
Most offer wheelchair assistance free of charge, but you’ll need to request it at least 48 hours before departure.
2. Be Honest About Your Needs
Don’t downplay your symptoms—mention everything from help with security to boarding and baggage.
3. Keep Documentation Handy
A doctor’s note isn’t always necessary but can be useful if you encounter questions about your condition.
When You Choose “Wheelchair, No”
If you decide to forego a wheelchair, here’s how to make the journey more manageable:
• Take Frequent Breaks: Build in as much downtime as possible, even if it means arriving earlier to find seating along the way.
• Use Priority Services: Ask for early boarding, short queues, or other disability accommodations to reduce standing or walking.
• Pack Light: Use rolling luggage or ask a companion to help with bags to avoid unnecessary strain.
Dealing with Stigma and Second-Guessing
There’s no escaping the fact that using a wheelchair for an invisible illness can attract stares—or that inner voice questioning whether it’s really necessary.
But here’s the thing:
• Your Health is Non-Negotiable: The opinions of strangers are irrelevant compared to your ability to enjoy your trip without crashing.
• It’s a Tool, Not a Defeat: A wheelchair isn’t a failure; it’s an energy-saving device, just like a mobility scooter or crutch.
• You’re Leading by Example: By making choices that prioritise your health, you’re helping normalise the realities of invisible disabilities like Long COVID.
Final Thoughts: Rest, Pace, and Do Your Best
Travelling with Long COVID means constant decisions, compromises, and unpredictability. Some days, you’ll get it spot on. Other days, the unexpected will throw your careful plans into chaos.
The key is to keep trying your best, learn from every trip, and accept that rest and pacing are essential—not optional. Whether it’s “wheelchair, yes” or “wheelchair, no,” the goal is the same: to enjoy your journey and create space for recovery when you need it.
Safe travels—and don’t forget, doing your best is enough.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment.
Long Covid Journey 