Travel

Travel may be a challenge with a vestibular condition, but don't write it off. There are a few basic steps which may help to make travel a bit easier.

Preparing for travel

Frequent attacks of vertigo, or the uncertainty of when an attack might occur, can be stressful and may make people reluctant to travel. You don't have to go far to enjoy yourself, even if you just arrange to go for a day out with a friend. If you find you enjoy a short journey, you can always go further afield next time. Take one step at a time.

Steps which may help to make travel a bit easier

• Stress and tiredness can exacerbate symptoms, so plan well ahead.
• If possible, travel with someone who understands and knows what to do in the event of an attack.
• On longer trips have everything prepared a day or two before leaving so you can rest the day before and get a good night's sleep
• Leave plenty of time for connections; especially between different means of transport
• Include adequate rest periods when travelling or on a business trip - whether a comfort break or a whole day off
• Carry your Ménière's & Vestibular UK membership card which explains your symptoms
• If you have hearing loss, a ‘Hard of hearing, please speak clearly’ badge/card can be obtained from some hearing support organisations to alert people to your hearing loss and explain how they can help. Ensure travel/tour guides know how best to communicate with you in an emergency
• Always pack more medication than you think you will need while away, so that if you are delayed for any length of time or schedules change, you won't be stuck without your regular medication
• If you are following a special diet (e.g. low salt or low caffeine), let friends/relatives know and ask in restaurants so they can suggest particular menu items or adapt if necessary
• Keep your mind occupied to try and lessen the worry about having an attack. Think of something pleasant or listen to relaxing music
• Use controlled breathing or mindfulness techniques to reduce anxiety.

Further assistance for people travelling with an invisible condition

Modes of travel

Walking

If you are uncertain about going out alone, start by going for short walks, keeping within a comfortably safe distance of home until you build up your confidence. Try and walk with someone if you can. 

Walk at your own speed and adjust your pace and step to maintain a comfortable balance while walking. Wear sensible, comfortable, low-heeled footwear and use a bag to carry awkward items.

If it helps use a walking stick. Folding walking sticks are available which can be put in a handbag or pocket when not in use. Walking poles are also becoming increasingly popular.

Cars and driving

There are legal obligations which apply to those who suffer from, or develop, sudden attacks of unprovoked or unprecipitated disabling giddiness and you are required by law to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), as well as the company which insures any vehicle you drive of your condition if you wish to continue driving. Read more about Driving and the law or visit GOV.UK Vertigo and Driving (external link).

If you are affected by motion sickness, you may wish to keep some of your medication and sealable plastic bags to hand. The flicker of strong sunlight through shaded trees, or the ripple of fencing or posts flashing past can trigger dizziness. Some motoring organisations under their recovery scheme will recover you and your car if you are on your own and taken ill away from home. Check with your motoring organisation if they offer this service.

Buses, trains and the underground

When travelling by bus or coach always sit down if you can as keeping your balance when the vehicle starts and stops can be difficult and remain downstairs on a double decker if you are unsteady.

If motion bothers you, particularly when using the underground, be careful getting on and off escalators and keep your eyes in front. 

Air travel

Most people have no difficulty at all with flying and many report feeling better for the experience. If you’re in doubt about a vertigo attack get an aisle seat; it’s away from the view, which could be disorienting and easier to get to the toilets. If noise and vibration are likely to trouble you arrange to have a seat away from the engines.

When you book your flight, notify the airline of your condition. Ask if the airline has special diets. Knowing you can eat well in the air will reduce the stress of flying and so reduce the risk of an attack. Once in flight keep your fluid intake up. The air in aircraft is very dry because it is air conditioned and you will dehydrate to some degree, but avoid drinking alcohol in flight as this adds to the risk of dehydration.

If your main problem when flying is severe ear pain, it is not related to your Ménière’s, but is caused by a difference in the pressure in the middle ear and the cabin.

Boats and ships 

Some people find just thinking about the motion of a boat or ship almost brings on nausea, others very much enjoy sailing. Consider the length of the trip and the likely sea conditions. Try a short trip first before you arrange a long cruise. Once at sea you might find it less disturbing to stay below deck with a book and avoid the visual effect of seeing the horizon appear to move.

If you suffer from sea-sickness, try to keep your fluid levels up by drinking water as being sick lowers your fluid levels very significantly.

Where can I get further information and support?

• Please contact us for more information - email: info@meandve.org.uk or give us a ring: 01306 876883 to chat with a member of our team

• See your GP for advice if you have any question or concerns about your symptoms. They may refer to a specialist if neccessary.

• Come along to our Vestibular Insights Day on 16 May 2026. or join us at one our webinars.

• Become a member to receive regular information, resources and updates

• Donate to support our work and help us continue supporting people affected by labyrinthitis/vestibular neuritis and other vestibular conditions

Please note, Ménière's & Vestibular UK can provide general information, but is unable to provide specific medical advice. You should always check with your medical professional for information and advice relating to your symptoms/condition. Ménière's & Vestibular UK cannot advise on individual cases nor accept any liability resulting from the use of any treatments/information referred to on this website.