10.06.2025
A COPD vacation doesn't have to be complicated – but it does require
good planning. Many people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD) long for a change of scenery, fresh air, and a break from daily
routines. With the right precautions, traveling with COPD can be safe,
comfortable, and even empowering. Here's how to prepare for your next
trip.
Why preparation is key
A successful COPD vacation starts long before departure day. Ideally,
start planning several weeks in advance and consult with your doctor
or pulmonary specialist. The most important factor for traveling with
COPD is stable health.
Questions to clarify before your trip:
-
Are you currently stable enough for travel?
-
Do you need medical documents for oxygen or flights?
-
Are your medications available or approved in your destination
country?
The climate at your destination matters too. Extreme heat, cold, or
high humidity can worsen COPD symptoms. Choose a place with mild
temperatures, clean air, and moderate altitude – ideally below 1,500
meters.
Digital therapy on the go – with the Breathment app
Traveling doesn’t mean interrupting your respiratory care. The
Breathment app helps you stay on track with:
-
Guided breathing exercises – anytime, anywhere
-
A personal symptom diary to track your well-being
-
Expert support from certified therapists
More control while traveling – with the Breathment app
Combining your regular inhalation routine with targeted
breathing therapy can improve your results – even on vacation.
Breathment offers expert-guided routines developed by
certified physiotherapists, tailored to your personal needs
wherever you are.
Choosing the right way to travel
Not all travel methods are the same – especially when it comes to
COPD. Depending on how you travel, there are different things to
consider:
-
Flying with COPD may require a medical certificate and
pre-approved oxygen use. Learn more about what to expect during
flights:
Flying with COPD – What You Need to Know Before You Travel.
-
Bus and train travel can be more flexible but come with
their own challenges, such as long rides or power access for
equipment:
Traveling by Bus and Train with COPD – Stay Comfortable on the
Go.
-
If you're using oxygen therapy, make sure you're prepared for
mobility and transport – tips here:
Traveling with Oxygen – How to Enjoy a Safe and Comfortable
Oxygen Vacation.
Staying safe at your destination
Your accommodation and environment are just as important as your
journey. When booking a place to stay, look for:
- Elevators or ground-floor rooms
- Smoke-free environments
-
Easy access to pharmacies and medical centers
-
Clean air and low pollution levels
Try to avoid overly packed itineraries. Build in rest breaks, avoid
physically demanding activities, and stay out of direct sun or heavy
pollution.
Tip: Many cities now offer accessibility guides or air quality reports
online – especially in Europe.
Emergency prep and insurance
Even with good planning, things can go wrong – so be prepared:
-
Choose travel insurance that includes emergency medical
repatriation
-
Carry a list of medications, dosages, allergies, and emergency
contacts
-
Share your itinerary with someone you trust
If you're traveling internationally, bring key medical documents in
English:
-
Fit-to-travel statement from your doctor
-
Copies of prescriptions with active ingredients
-
Info on your oxygen setup and equipment model
Conclusion: With the right tools, a COPD vacation is absolutely
possible
Traveling with COPD is not only possible – it can be an enriching
experience when planned well. With the help of your healthcare team, a
bit of preparation, and smart tools like the Breathment app, you're
ready to explore new places without fear.
Take your time, listen to your body – and enjoy the freedom to travel
with confidence.
