Flying with a plaster cast

Picture it. You’ve booked the hotel and the flights, the suitcases are packed (well, if you’re totally prepared, anyway…) and everybody’s got that feeling of excitement that can only come from a holiday abroad.

And then… something goes wrong and you end causing yourself a nasty injury. Or, even worse, you get the call saying that your darling child has fallen out of a tree or hurt themselves playing sports.

One trip to the hospital later and it’s your worst fear come true – a broken arm, wrist, leg or ankle that means somebody faces spending the holidays in a plaster cast. All of a sudden, those plans of a great summer break are looking like they’ll never happen.

Thousands of us will suffer an injury that threatens to ruin our breaks. So many people cancel their holidays ever year unnecessarily over a limb break, but fear not – you can still go abroad in most cases – and even have a good time as well!

Over the next couple of days, we’ll go through some of the solutions to the problems that come up the most when it comes to taking a break with a cast – such as getting yourself on the plane and what to do when you’re there.

Our LimbO protectors can provide excellent coverage for cast and dressings at home and abroad, no matter where you may go this summer. Check out the LimbO website for our full range.

First things first – if you’re flying, check with your doctor whether you have permission to come on board beforehand. Most airlines will allow someone with a cast to fly on their planes, provided it has been on for at least 48 hours (as there is a risk of swelling just after the cast has been fitted) and does not contain any wires that could present a danger to other passengers.

This will in many cases need a doctor’s note, so make sure that you have that to hand before contacting your airline or your insurer directly.

Wearing a knee cast could lead to issues fitting into those tight plane seats. You may have to book additional seating to try. It’s unlikely you’ll be offered a seat by one of the emergency exits (which have better legroom) unless you are able to demonstrate that you or your child is capable of exiting the plane with minimal impairment if they’re required to.

Once you’re at your destination it’s worth checking to find if there’s accessible transport in the area where you’re staying, especially if you or any of your travelling partners have a restrictive leg or knee cast that requires you to keep a leg straight. Sites like www.wheelchairaccessibleholidaytaxis.com will help you find a taxi that can suit you all, in a number of countries including Spain, Italy, and Greece.

And finally – remember that you will need to inform your insurer about the change in your circumstances, to avoid any nasty surprises that may arise while you’re away.

Have a safe trip and happy travelling!