6 Tips for Planning a Cancer-Friendly Vacation

A cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to put a damper on your vacation plans. If your doctor is on board and you feel the time is right, there is no reason to delay that long-awaited trip. With a little extra planning, you can still enjoy all the fun of a family getaway. As Amber Bauer from the American Society for Clinical Oncology writes, “Although traveling can be physically and mentally exhausting, sometimes getting away from it all is just what you need. And with a bit of planning, you can relax and enjoy your trip.”

Here are five tips to help you plan that cancer-friendly vacation:

1. Choose your destination carefully. When choosing a destination for your vacation, it’s important to take into consideration your medical needs. If you’re undergoing treatment, be sure to select a destination that has access to quality medical care in case you experience any problems while on vacation. 

2. Plan ahead. Once you’ve selected your destination, it’s time to start planning! Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to make all the necessary arrangements so that you’re not feeling rushed or stressed leading up to your trip. 

3. Travel with family or friends. One of the best ways to make sure that you have a enjoyable and stress-free vacation is to travel with people who are supportive and understand your needs. Family members and close friends can be a great source of emotional and practical support while you’re away from home. 

4. Pack wisely. When packing for your trip, be sure to bring along any medications or treatments that you’ll need while on vacation. It’s also a good idea to pack comfortable clothes and shoes, as well as any other items that will make you feel more at ease while traveling. 

5. Organize your medications. This includes both prescription medications and over-the-counter medications. It’s a good idea to print out a list of the dosages, times, and the name of the medications so there’s no confusion. You can also put this information in a pill organizer for easy reference.

6. Take things one day at a time. Relaxation and enjoyment should be the main goals of your vacation, so don’t try to do too much in one day! If sightseeing is on the agenda, build in some down time each day so that you can rest and recuperate. And most importantly, don’t forget to have some fun! 

Making memories with loved ones is one of the most important aspects of life whether or not you are dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Taking out for a vacation is a great way to create lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re exploring new sights and sounds or simply relaxing by the pool, spending quality time with the people you love is sure to make your vacation special. So don’t hesitate – book that trip today and start planning some unforgettable memories!

Free Vacations for Cancer Patients and Families

There are a number of programs that offer free vacations for cancer patients and their families. These wonderful nonprofit organizations partner with large companies to sponsor free vacation packages that typically include accommodations, food, and entertainment. Here are just a few. Be sure to visit our national directory of free vacations and day trips for more.

Deliver the Dream Family Retreat

Deliver the Dream Family Retreat is a fun and interactive no-cost family trip for those in the USA who have a family member who has been diagnosed with cancer. This three-day program covers lodging, activities, and all group meal expenses with indoor and outdoor recreational events, discussion groups, games, creative workshops, and teambuilding exercises. To register for the next free session, please visit the Deliver the Dream website here.

Camp Wieser Family Getaway

The Me-One Foundation generously sponsors the free Camp Wieser Family Getaway, a three-day family retreat to ease the distress a cancer diagnosis brings. Available to adult cancer patients in the USA and their families. Embrace beautiful surroundings and create priceless new memories together at zero cost for the entire family. For the next session and application, visit the Me-One Foundation website here.

Start Planning!

A cancer diagnosis doesn’t mean that you have to give up on your dreams of taking a relaxing vacation. With a little extra planning, cancer patients can still enjoy all the benefits of getting away from it all. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your next vacation is both enjoyable and safe. For more free vacations and day trips for cancer patients and families in the USA visit our updated directory of nationwide programs.