Traveling with Parkinson’s Disease: Safe, Seamless, and Still Full of Joy

Written By Krista Nannery

If you or someone you love is living with Parkinson’s disease, you probably already know that travel can be both incredibly rewarding and a little intimidating. My mom lived with Parkinson’s for 30 years, and we took plenty of trips together — some went beautifully, others taught me lessons I wish I’d known sooner. Now as a Virtuoso advisor, one of the things I do is help clients with mobility issues check items off their bucket lists.

Here’s the truth: with thoughtful planning, smart destination choices, and the right support on the ground, traveling with Parkinson’s can be safe, smooth, and even indulgent. These are my best tips and vacation ideas — based on real-world experience — for making your next adventure a success. Want to talk more? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

Tips for Traveling Safely with Parkinson’s

1. Build in More Time Than You Think You’ll Need

Flights, security lines, bathroom breaks — everything takes longer when mobility is limited or movement can be unpredictable. If the connection time says 45 minutes, double it. That extra breathing room can be the difference between a relaxing trip and a stressful one.

2. Choose Accessible Transportation from the Start

Don’t leave transfers to chance. Pre-book accessible vans, private drivers, or porters who can assist with luggage and mobility devices. In destinations like Italy, I can arrange scooter or wheelchair rentals and vetted private drivers who meet you right at the airport or train station.

3. Prioritize Easy Access Accommodations

Not all “accessible” rooms are created equal. Look for:

  • Roll-in showers with grab bars

  • Ample turning space for wheelchairs or scooters

  • Minimal thresholds and steps. For cruises, some lines truly excel. Explora Journeys, for example, has a generous number of accessible cabins — far more than most luxury ships.

4. Keep Medications Front and Center

Always travel with medications in your carry-on in original containers, plus a printed list of prescriptions. If you’re crossing time zones, work with your doctor to adjust your medication schedule gradually.

5. Consider Travel Insurance with Medical Coverage

Even if you’ve traveled to a place a dozen times, Parkinson’s can make the unexpected more complicated. Look for policies that include trip interruption, medical evacuation, and pre-existing condition waivers.

Vacation Ideas for Travelers with Parkinson’s

Luxury Cruising with Accessible Cabins

Cruising can be one of the easiest ways to explore multiple destinations without constant packing and unpacking. Explora Journeys, Regent Seven Seas, and Oceania offer ships with wide corridors, spacious elevators, and wheelchair-friendly excursions. Onboard, you can pace activities to your energy level — join a port tour in the morning, then relax on your balcony in the afternoon.

Private Drivers and Guides that Go at Your Pace

Travel destinations in Europe can be daunting with cobblestones, hills, and historic buildings — but with the right support, it’s magic. I can arrange:

  • Accessible vans and private drivers

  • Scooters or wheelchairs delivered to your hotel

  • Private guides who understand pacing needs and can adapt the day on the fly. Think: rolling through Florence’s piazzas without worrying about steep climbs or chasing down a taxi.

Slow-Paced River Cruises

European river cruises are ideal for travelers who want cultural immersion without marathon walking days. Ships dock right in the heart of cities, and some lines offer gentle walking tours for those who move at a slower pace. Please note however that most river cruises cannot accomodate scooters or wheelchairs and do require that you be able to navigate stairs. Depending on tides and locations, sometimes to get off the ship, you may need to take the stairs to the roof.

Accessible National Park Lodges

Closer to home, U.S. National Parks like Yellowstone and Grand Canyon offer accessible trails, shuttle systems, and wheelchair-friendly viewpoints. Many park lodges have designated accessible rooms with roll-in showers.

Wellness Resorts with Accessibility

Places like Canyon Ranch (Arizona) or Carillon Miami Wellness Resort offer programs focused on movement, balance, and relaxation — a great way to recharge in a safe environment.

Final Thought: Parkinson’s Doesn’t Have to Mean Pausing Your Travel Dreams

The key to traveling with Parkinson’s is removing uncertainty. That means knowing your accommodations are truly accessible, your transportation is handled, and your itinerary works with — not against — your energy levels.

Whether you’re dreaming of sipping wine on the Amalfi Coast or watching glaciers from your cruise balcony, it’s possible to do it with comfort, dignity, and joy.

If you’re ready to start planning a vacation for Parkinson’s that’s both safe and seamless, I’d love to help you make it happen. I took care of my mom in her later years and I know how important the gift of time together is.

About Krista

I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. University of Notre Dame undergrad, University of Chicago MBA. Prior to moving to Florida to take care of my elderly mom with Parkinson’s Disease, I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England. My background and 20 year career in the investment management industry have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others as a Virtuoso travel advisor. I offer a 30 minute complimentary vacation consultation to anyone looking to plan their next trip.

Ways I Can Help You

Krista Nannery
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