For travellers weighing up cancelling a trip during a flare

Flare Check: Go / No-Go Decision Helper

You’re in a flare three days before a trip. This tool won’t tell you what you “should” do, but it does help you see your body budget and support options clearly so you can decide whether to travel as planned, travel with major modifications or postpone.

Phase 1 · How travel-ready is your body today?

Imagine the airport and travel day were happening right now. Answer based on your current pain, mobility and capacity.

1. 1. Core mobility

   If the airport were today, could you get from the car to the gate with support?

   Yes, with my usual aids (cane, rollator, wheelchair assistance). I’d be tired, but it’s doable. Only if everything is smooth – short queues, seating, early boarding, no surprises. Even moving around my home is a struggle; airport distances feel impossible right now.

2. 2. Pain manageability

   In the last 24 hours, how responsive has your pain been to your usual tools?

   My usual tools still dial it down to a tolerable level. They take the edge off, but I’m still close to my limit. Nothing is touching it; the pain stays overwhelming.

3. 3. Capacity for travel stress

   If your body feels exactly like this on travel day, what happens?

   I’d get through with support and still have some function left for the next few days. I’d probably get through, but I expect a big flare or crash afterwards. I’d likely need emergency help or be non-functional for days after.

Phase 2 · What can you realistically modify?

Tick only the modifications that are realistic for this trip, your budget and your support system.