If you’ve had a total knee replacement and are wondering if travel can still be part of your life, the good news is that it absolutely can! Since my right knee replacement at the end of July 2024, I’ve found plenty of ways to explore the world while staying (mostly) comfortable, safe and healthy. In this post, I’ll share tips for traveling by car or van, cruise ship, and airplane, plus advice for navigating airports. Remember, I’m a blogger and travel advisor, not a physician. Always consult your doctor before planning any travel after knee replacement surgery.
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Before heading out on any adventure, talk to your healthcare provider about your plans. Ask about any restrictions, tips for preventing blood clots, and whether you’ll need additional medications. Depending on your stage of recovery, your doctor might recommend wearing compression stockings or taking a blood thinner during long trips. Make sure you have all necessary prescriptions and medical supplies packed before you travel after knee replacement.
You may also want to consider purchasing travel insurance just in case you’re not able to make the trip.
Road trips can be a great way to travel after a knee replacement because you have more control over your schedule. We typically drive our Chrysler Pacific minivan on road trips, and I have found it quite comfortable and accessible after my TKR. My first trip in the minivan was just five days after surgery. We drove more than 420 miles from Minnesota back to our home in Nebraska. While that trip was not easy and bathroom breaks were challenging, it was manageable. By week six post-TKR, when we returned to Minnesota, it was much better.
Cruises are a fantastic way to travel without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking.The ship (which is basically a resort hotel) carries you from one destination to another and has everything you need for your recovery! My first cruise with my new-and-improved knee was just six weeks post surgery. I had considered canceling and am so glad I did not. After several weeks cooped up at home, a cruise vacation was just what I needed. The sunshine, time on the beach, and not having to cook (or clean up) any meals certainly lifted my spirits.
Need help booking a cruise vacation? My husband, Steve, and I are Dream Vacations travel advisors and would love to help you plan your next cruise. Just email us here: s.teget@dreamvacations.com.
Flying after knee replacement can be intimidating, but with a little preparation, it’s entirely doable:
Airports can be busy and overwhelming, but these tips can help you breeze through:
Remember, the key to successful post-knee replacement travel is planning and communication. Talk to your doctor about your travel plans, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. After all, with a little preparation and a positive attitude, you can conquer any adventure with your new knee! Oh, one more thing. Don’t forget to do your post-op exercises! Stretching, heel slides, walking, and leg lifts can (and should) still be done – even when you’re on vacation.
Now, enough talk, time to get back out there! Where will your next adventure take you? Share your travel tips and favorite destinations in the comments below! Wherever you’re headed, I hope you have an incredible time exploring this beautiful world. If you’d like help planning your next cruise, all-inclusive, or land-based vacation, we’d love to be of assistance. Just fill out THIS FORM and let us know how we can help. Travel well – Ann and Steve Teget