Ensure that your travel agent is reputable and a member of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).
Inform your travel agent, airline and insurance company that you have a sickle cell disorder. This should be done both verbally and in writing. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT.
Obtain clear guidelines and requirements from the airline and insurance company. Insurance premiums may vary it is advisable to shop around before booking your flight.
It is strongly advisable that you ensure you have enough travel insurance to cover you for any eventuality e.g. last minute cancellation due to illness or an air ambulance to return home if necessary. Not all countries have a free health service. Always read the small print.
Enquire personally at the same time as your initial enquiry, whether your airline can supply extra oxygen if it is required and if additional costs will be incurred.
If there are specific seating requirements you may need, advise the travel agent and airline of your needs.
It is important that you check your travel documentation well in advance before your departure. This will give you time to correct any mistakes or problems that may occur.
Before travelling discuss early if you need to take any precautions e.g. vaccinations or immunisations with your GP or consultant. This is also recommended for any children that may be travelling with you.
Ensure you have taken adequate measures to protect yourself from mosquitoes or other insects whilst abroad. You may want to take medication with you to ensure that bites may be treated instantly.
Make sure you have a check-up with the hospital at least 3 weeks before you are due to travel. Your haemoglobin level may be low and you may need a blood transfusion.
If you require a blood transfusion whilst abroad you need to know about the hospitals where you can have a safe transfusion with treated blood. Discuss this with your GP or consultant before you depart for your holiday.
It is advisable to purchase a first aid kit that you can take with you, which may contain needles, syringes and surgical gloves if they are required.
If you are feeling unwell the day before or on the day of your journey, consult your GP or hospital. If you are advised not to travel, cancel your holiday immediately.
