Advice on travel

[ICNJess]

In a month or so I might be traveling 8 hours to see my best bud Cindy. We're going by car. I've had longer car rides, like 18 hours to get to South Dakota (border of Wyoming) and that was very difficult. But I couldn't prepare because it was for my husband's stepmom's death. Soooo this time around I want to be prepared. What are some things that I can do to ease the ride? What should I bring with? (Besides meds)

I really want to prepare for this because that 18 hour ride was just hell on my bladder.

Thanks!!

Hugs and love,
Jess

[dyno]

Jess,
I do 12-13 hour rides usually several times a year. I have found that the stick on heat pads are a lifesaver. I take pillows, blanket and my slippers so I can take off my shoes and relax between stops. I also like having my own water. I have gotten some bad water that put me into a flare that was hard to deal with on the trip. I also like to have my own music and take a portable cd player and headset. My husband and I have different taste sometimes. I also take plenty of books, magazines and handheld games to pass the time.

I hope you have a good trip, I'm sure you will have fun.

Jolene

[tigger_gal]

Jess
I cant wait:) hope all goes as planned :)
Brat

[momw/ic]

Ditto for me what the other ladies said. Also I try to make a place in the floor where I sit so I can put my feet up instead of sitting that long with my legs bent. I also take books and magazines and the stick on pads are life savers! We also bought a small 9" television with VCR that hooks into the cigarette lighter to watch movies. I have small kids so it is great for them but good for me too! Also, wear loose clothing if you tend to swell towards the end of the day or when you have pain - I never travel in constricting clothing anymore! Good Luck and have a fun trip. If you discover any good tricks be sure to share them with us when you get back! My family makes 7-8 drives to my in-laws 2 or 3 times a year!

[ICNDonna]

You'll want to take some IC safe snacks. I take my IC pillow to sit on and bottled water to drink. Plan plenty of stops and allow some time to just walk a little at each stop.

And most important, try to relax --- and have a good time.

Hugs,
Donna

[ICNJess]

Thanks ladies I will certainly keep all these ideas in account. :)

[jaime15]

All I can add is make sure you stop at every rest stop along the way. Whether you gotta go or not. eek

[dyno]

Oh, I just thought of another thing, I always have a travel john in my purse or bag in the car. That way just in case we get caught in something I have a "potty" with me. I have a blanket or big towel with me. Many times too on a long trip we bring a porta potty with us. Just that piece of mind that I have a bathroom of some kind with me helps so much. I can then relax and stress doesn't become a factor. I also remember one time someone mentioned they keep a big bath towel and plastic bag in their car and if need be pee into the towel and then put in the bag.

Jolene