7 Tips for Long Road Trips with RA

I wasn’t about to let my rheumatoid arthritis (RA) stop me from traveling across the United States.

If you’re living with RA, you know the last thing you want is to sit squished in a car for long periods of time. Alas, we must live our lives, and traveling is usually inevitable — and fun!

This topic is very personal to me, as I’m currently on a long road trip throughout the entire United States. I didn’t let RA stop me from embarking on this journey, and I don’t want it to stop you from going on adventures, either.

So, here are my tips for conquering long road trips when you live with RA. 

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Tip 1: Take breaks every 45 to 60 minutes

Our joints do not thrive if we stay seated for long periods of time, which is exactly what long road trips are all about.

If you have RA, you know the feeling of standing after sitting at your desk for over an hour. I generally feel like the Tin Man and have to walk a couple of wobbly steps before I get my bearings.

This is why it’s important to find somewhere safe to pull over and get out of the car, ideally every 45 minutes. It may seem annoying to keep stopping constantly, but your joints will thank you for it.

Personally, I need about 5 to 10 minutes of walking and stretching at each stop. Make sure to stretch the areas usually aggravated by your RA.

It’s also a great time to use the restroom.

Tip 2: Stay hydrated

On long road trips, we tend to neglect drinking water because we want to reduce the amount of times we pull over to use the bathroom.

Because you’re already pulling over every 45 to 60 minutes to stretch quickly, you can drink as much water as you need!

I would even go as far as adding electrolytes to your water to guarantee you’re staying hydrated.

Tip 3: Consider using arthritis lotion, patches, or compression garments

I always keep my CBD arthritis rub within reach on road trips. At each stop, I reapply to the areas of my body that are achy. There are also patches you can get from the pharmacy, such as lidocaine or heated menthol patches, that may help ease joint pain.

Repetitive movements while driving can aggravate my symptoms. If you’re the driver on the trip, then I highly recommend asking your rheumatologist what over-the-counter lotions or patches might be best for your joints.

These are also great to have on hand for long walks and hikes during your travels.

Wearing compression garments on your most symptomatic and painful joints is a fantastic option as well. Just make sure to take breaks from wearing a compression garment since it can irritate the area if worn for long periods.

Tip 4: Be aware of your body while driving

There are ways you can be mindful of your body while driving. For example, if a new pain or ache develops, it might be necessary to make a pit stop sooner. It might be a sign to change your driving or sitting position with extra support or apply some arthritis lotion or patches to any aches.

I’d always recommend stopping to put some simple stretches and movement into action. But if you’re stuck in standstill traffic, you might be able to move your joints during the drive as well.

If you’re the passenger, then try taking off your shoes and practicing some ankle and foot stretches. Use your hands to apply pressure to your feet and massage the area. Focusing on these smaller joints that don’t require a big space can be really effective during this time. You might also do some hand and finger movements, for example.

If you’re the driver, then try moving your wrists and fingers once in a while and only in a way that is safe.

Tip 5: Don’t forget to take your meds

The last thing you need for your long road trip is to forget to take your medication and end up flaring later that week.

Keep your meds in a travel case, and put the case in the console so it’s readily available. Put alarms on your phone so you don’t forget! If you’re the driver, safely pull off to a rest stop to take your meds and stretch.

If you’re someone like me and have injections that need to be refrigerated, I highly recommend getting a portable cooler that connects to the car and keeps your injections cool. I have tried the simple everyday lunch box but quickly realized that it only works for short road trips.

If you have the option to get a mini cooler that connects to the car, it might bring peace of mind knowing that the injections should be OK the entire trip. 

Tip 6: Avoid salty snacks

The best part of long road trips is the fun snacks.

Unfortunately, a lot of road trip snacks and gas station goodies are high in sodium. If sodium doesn’t bother you or you have a condition like postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), then go for it.

If you are someone who swells from sodium, like most people I know living with RA, then I would pick alternative options.

You may have to plan ahead and pack a snack bag with items such as low sodium pretzels, veggies with dip, rice cakes, and granola bars before the trip.

Unsalted nuts could be a good option, and water-rich foods can help keep you hydrated. There are still tons of yummy foods to be had.

Tip 7: Prioritize self-care and rest once you arrive

Leaving the best for last.

Once you arrive at your destination, self-care is a must.

After a long road trip, you probably want to head straight to bed, and I get it, I’ve been there. If you can get in at least 10 minutes of self-care, it’s better than nothing. This might include:

• a quick walk
• a full-body stretch
• eating a full nutritious meal and hydrating with water
• doing your skin care routine (shower, face care routine, massage lotion all over your body to ease your joints)
• mediate (even if it’s as you’re falling asleep, throw on some rain music or guided breath meditation)

After some well-deserved self-care, try to get a good night’s sleep, especially if you’re driving more the next day.

Driving off

In conclusion, warriors, don’t let your RA stop you from going on adventures. Use these tips to live well with RA and avoid major flare-ups.

I’d love to hear what your favorite tips and tricks are for long road trips, too! As always, lots of love, and keep creating those better days.