Traveling with a prosthesis.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, good planning is essential for a successful trip as an amputee. During your trip, your prosthetic device will be exposed to different conditions and stressors than usual. Before you go, it’s smart to consider the potential challenges that could arise and be prepared to keep your prosthesis in good working order.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, good planning is essential for a successful trip as an amputee. During your trip, your prosthetic device will be exposed to different conditions and stressors than usual. Before you go, it’s smart to consider the potential challenges that could arise and be prepared to keep your prosthesis in good working order.
On this page, you'll find important information and helpful tips for traveling with a prosthesis.
How can I prepare for a successful trip?
We’ve created a step-by-step checklist to make your journey easier-helping
you feel confident and travel with peace of mind.
Your travel packing checklist.
To support you, we’ve put together a recommended packing list with helpful items you might want to take along. Every person and prosthesis are different, so feel free to adapt the list to your individual needs.
Important tip: Keep all essential prosthetic supplies and chargers in your carry-on luggage, so they’re easy to reach and won’t get lost in transit.
What do I need to consider when flying as an amputee?
Before you fly with a prosthetic device, check with your airline, airport, or tour operator about assistance for people with reduced mobility. Be sure to bring your prosthesis passport with you so that you can identify yourself as a prosthesis wearer during security checks.
Plan to arrive early to provide ample time to get through security, and stay aware when passing through body scanners or metal detectors. If you experience any unexpected behavior from your prosthesis, stop and inspect the device before continuing on your journey.
It’s also good to plan for volume fluctuations of your residual limb, which may occur due to the change in cabin pressure during the flight. Carry cushioning material in your carry-on luggage so that you can adjust as needed and stay comfortable. Staying hydrated and avoiding salty snacks can also help with potential swelling.
Increase your comfort during the flight by getting up, walking around, and stretching—especially if you’ll be in the air for several hours or more. Additionally, if your trip requires connecting flights, be sure to give yourself plenty of layover time to navigate a large, busy airport.
If you have any remaining concerns, consider having a conversation with your certified prosthetist before you travel. Ask about what kind of fluctuations you can expect, what materials or adjustments are best for air travel, and any other questions you may have.
How can I prepare for possible prosthesis failure?
Before traveling, make sure you have the contact information for your prosthetic limb center. If, during your travels, you suspect that your prosthesis is defective (e.g. damage, malfunction, electronic problem), please contact them immediately. They will coordinate next steps with Ottobock Customer Service.
It’s also important to have the serial number of your prosthetic component readily available. This number can be found in your prosthesis passport and/or on the inside of your mechatronic prosthesis component.
Please remember, Ottobock’s guarantee is valid worldwide and offers support in case of emergencies. However, we cannot always guarantee the level of service or availability of certified prosthetists abroad. There may also be delays in getting replacement parts to your destination country due to longer shipping routes and customs regulations.
Helpful resources for amputees and prosthesis users.
For travelers with mobility restrictions, accessibility apps can be a big help and save you time. Many platforms offer global information on accessible places, which can make planning much easier. If you don’t find all the answers you need there, consider researching national accessibility organizations or online communities and blogs related to your destination.
There are also many travel influencers with mobility challenges who share useful tips and experiences.
Extra tip: Don't miss the travel stories on MOVAO Community
Advice for accessible trips.
Planning is key to a successful trip with a prosthesis. Several online services and apps can help you find accessible options. Here are some important aspects to consider:
Accommodation: If you’re not sure a hotel is fully accessible, it’s best to contact them directly. Remember to ask about access to both the rooms and all common areas and facilities.
Excursions and Restaurants: Again, if you’re unsure if an attraction or restaurant is fully accessible, it’s best to contact them directly for clarification.
Transportation: Be sure to inform your transportation provider of your mobility requirements well ahead of your travel date, as special support and accessible spaces are often limited.
Medical services and regulations: Before you travel, make note of nearby medical facilities and emergency service numbers for your destination. When traveling abroad, ensure you know the specific requirements and regulations for your destination regarding visas, vaccinations, and customs.
Medication and documentation: If you take medication, make sure you have enough to last you throughout your trip and bring all necessary medical documentation with you.
Download checklist.
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