Travelling with an invisible illness like ME, chronic fatigue syndrome, or fibromyalgia can be rewarding – but it comes with unique challenges. Even if you look well, managing symptoms like exhaustion, pain, or sensory overload can make travel stressful.
Living with an invisible illness can make travel feel daunting – but it doesn’t have to stop you from seeing the world. At AllClear, we’re committed to shining a light on what it really takes to travel safely and confidently with a hidden condition. With the right support, practical planning and specialist cover, you can enjoy a holiday that works for you – on your terms, and at your pace. Because we believe everyone has the right to travel.
What is an invisible illness?
Invisible illnesses are health conditions that aren’t immediately obvious to others. They include conditions such as, ME, lupus, fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, and many more. While you might appear healthy on the outside, you could be living with symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, dizziness, sensory sensitivities or brain fog.
That lack of visibility can make travel extra difficult. People might not understand why you need help or why you can’t just “push through”. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay at home – it just means planning differently.
Planning a holiday while living with one of these conditions isn’t about limiting yourself. It’s about tailoring your trip to protect your wellbeing.
7 tips for travelling with an invisible illness
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to travel when you’re living with an invisible illness – but there are ways to make it easier. The key is to plan around your condition, rather than pushing through it.
From choosing the right destination to pacing your activities and securing the right insurance, small steps can have a big impact on your comfort and confidence. These tips are designed to help you travel more safely, more comfortably, and with greater peace of mind – wherever you’re heading.
1. Pick a destination that matches your energy
Picking the right destination is more than choosing somewhere sunny or scenic. It’s about understanding how your condition interacts with travel. For many people living with invisible illnesses, especially those who experience fatigue or mobility issues, short-haul destinations are more manageable. Avoiding extreme climates, excessive walking, or noisy city breaks can help preserve your energy and make the trip more enjoyable.
Think about what kind of environment helps you feel your best. If you know you’ll need quiet downtime, don’t choose a packed itinerary. A wellness retreat, a coastal village, or even a relaxing countryside break might offer more balance than a whirlwind city tour. Give yourself permission to choose the kind of holiday that works for you, not just what’s expected.
2. Choose accommodation that supports your needs
Your accommodation can make or break your trip. When living with an invisible condition, having comfort, convenience and some calm on hand is essential. Think about proximity to lifts, quiet zones, and accessible dining options. If stairs are a problem or sensory overload is an issue, it’s worth contacting your hotel in advance to request a ground floor room or somewhere away from busy communal areas.
You don’t have to justify your needs. Simply explaining them clearly and kindly can make a big difference – and most hotels are happy to help if they’re given notice.
3. Prioritise rest, not your schedule
When you travel with an invisible illness, pacing is everything. That means leaving space in your days to rest and recover. If you try to do too much too soon, you risk spending the rest of your trip trying to get back on your feet.
One of the best ways to travel safely with an invisible illness is to approach your holiday as a chance to pause – not perform. Give yourself rest days between outings. Keep transport timings gentle. And don’t be afraid to change plans last-minute if your symptoms flare up. You don’t owe anyone a perfect itinerary – your wellbeing is the priority.
4. Get medical essentials organised early
Being organised with medication and documentation can remove a huge amount of travel stress. Always bring more medication than you’ll need, in case of delays or travel disruptions. It’s best to pack this in your hand luggage in its original packaging, alongside a letter from your doctor explaining your condition, treatment, and any specific medical needs.
Make sure you know where the nearest pharmacy or hospital is at your destination. Keeping a simple medical summary – ideally translated into the local language – can also be helpful in emergencies. Having your information ready gives you peace of mind and saves valuable time if you need help abroad.
5. Use airport and transport support – that’s what it’s for
Many people feel hesitant about asking for help, especially when others can’t “see” your illness. But airport and transport assistance exists for a reason – and using it can make travelling significantly less exhausting.
Whether it’s avoiding long queues, getting help with your bags, or using transport through the terminal, pre-booking assistance can help conserve your energy and reduce stress. Even if you’re not sure you’ll need it, it’s better to have the option available. And remember: needing support isn’t weakness. It’s smart planning.
6. Be honest with the people your travelling with
One of the hardest things about invisible illnesses is the emotional toll – especially when people around you don’t fully understand what you’re dealing with. If you’re travelling with others, try to be upfront about your condition, how it might impact the trip, and what support you might need.
Set expectations early. Let them know that you may need to rest more than others, skip certain activities, or take quiet time. A bit of clarity before you travel can prevent misunderstandings and help create a more supportive environment.
7. Get travel insurance that covers invisible illness
Travel Insurance isn’t just a formality – it’s a vital lifeline when something goes wrong. And if you’re living with a long-term condition, it’s essential to get cover that understands your needs.
That’s where we come in. At AllClear, we specialise in Travel Insurance for people with pre-existing medical conditions. We’ve helped protect over 3.5 million travellers and offer cover for all conditions, all ages, and all destinations.
We know that invisible illnesses can flare up unexpectedly, and the last thing you need is to worry about medical costs or cancelled plans. That’s why our policies offer:
- 24/7 medical assistance abroad
- Cover tailored to your condition
- Trusted support when you need it most
Travel on your terms
Living with an invisible illness doesn’t mean you have to stop seeing the world. But it does mean travelling differently – and that’s nothing to be ashamed of. Whether you’re planning a gentle weekend away or a longer adventure, make space for rest, be honest about your needs, and choose support that actually understands your condition.
At AllClear, we’re here to help you travel safely and with confidence. Get a quote online 24/7, or speak to our award-winning team1 today.
- UK Broker Awards, Customer Service Awards 2024
