Whether you are traveling for treatment, going on vacation during or after treatment, or planning a trip while on active surveillance, this checklist will help you prepare.

Before You Travel — Medical Preparation

Documents to bring (copies and digital):

□ Emergency wallet card (Appendix I)
□ Current medication list (Appendix F)
□ Survivorship care plan (Appendix J) or treatment summary
□ Most recent PSA results
□ Most recent imaging reports
□ Pathology report
□ Insurance cards (front and back — photograph and store on phone)
□ Doctor contact information (all specialists)
□ Advance directive / living will / healthcare proxy (if applicable)
□ List of allergies

Medications:

□ Pack all medications in carry-on luggage (never in checked bags)
□ Bring enough medication for the entire trip plus extra days in case of delays
□ Keep medications in original labeled bottles
□ Bring a letter from your doctor listing your medications (especially for international travel or controlled substances)
□ If on hormone injections, bring supplies and a letter explaining the medical necessity
□ Pack sharps container if using injectable medications
□ Check time zone changes — adjust medication schedule if needed
□ Bring anti-diarrhea medication (loperamide) and pain medication just in case

Medical supplies:

□ Incontinence pads — bring more than you think you need
□ Skin barrier cream
□ Vacuum erection device (if using)
□ Any prescribed medical devices

If You Are Currently on Treatment

During radiation therapy:

Missing treatments can affect outcomes — discuss any travel plans with your radiation oncologist before booking
If you must travel, your doctor may be able to arrange treatment at another center (though this is complex and not always possible)
Plan vacations between treatment phases or after completion

During chemotherapy:

Travel between cycles may be possible — discuss timing with your medical oncologist
Avoid travel during the week after chemotherapy when blood counts are lowest
Avoid crowded places and people who are sick
Carry your oncologist's emergency contact number
Know the location of the nearest hospital at your destination

During hormone therapy:

If on injections, schedule your injection before or after travel, or arrange administration at your destination
Carry documentation for injectable medications (especially for air travel and international borders)
Stay hydrated and active during long flights — ADT increases blood clot risk
Compression stockings for flights over 4 hours

Traveling by Air

□ Request an aisle seat for easy bathroom access
□ Wear comfortable, loose clothing
□ Stay hydrated — drink water regularly
□ Walk the aisle every 1–2 hours to reduce blood clot risk
□ Compression stockings if on ADT or with leg swelling
□ Bring pads and a change of clothes in carry-on
□ If you have a penile implant, metallic fiducials, or seeds — they may trigger metal detectors; carry a doctor's letter
□ If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator — inform security; request hand screening
□ Bring snacks that align with your dietary plan

At Your Destination

□ Locate the nearest hospital or urgent care center
□ Identify a pharmacy near your hotel
□ Maintain your exercise routine — walk, swim, use hotel gym
□ Continue pelvic floor exercises
□ Stay on your medication schedule (adjust for time zones)
□ Maintain your diet as much as possible
□ Stay hydrated, especially in hot climates
□ Use sun protection — some medications increase sun sensitivity
□ Limit alcohol — it can worsen urinary symptoms and interact with medications

International Travel — Additional Considerations

□ Check if your medications are legal in the destination country (some hormonal medications or controlled substances may have restrictions)
□ Carry a doctor's letter in English and the local language explaining your diagnosis and medications
□ Research healthcare facilities at your destination
□ Purchase travel medical insurance that covers pre-existing conditions
□ Carry a translated emergency card (see Appendix I)
□ Check vaccination requirements — if immunocompromised, some live vaccines are contraindicated; consult your oncologist
□ Bring a water purification method if traveling to areas without safe drinking water

Travel Insurance Checklist

□ Does the policy cover pre-existing conditions (cancer)?
□ Does it cover emergency evacuation?
□ Does it cover hospitalization abroad?
□ What is the claims process?
□ Is there a 24-hour assistance hotline?
□ Keep policy number and emergency phone number in your wallet and phone