Hey Reader.

You know that moment when you think you might be ready to travel again — but your body, schedule, or anxiety immediately reminds you of all the reasons you shouldn’t? Yeah. Been there.

After my last big flare, it took months before I even opened Google Flights again. Every time I thought about planning a trip, my brain threw up a PowerPoint presentation of worst-case scenarios: fatigue, pain, logistics, sensory overload, TSA. (Always TSA.)

security airport GIF by truTV’s Those Who Can’t

The Truth About Readiness

Here’s what I figured out: You don’t need to feel 100% ready. You just need to feel curious again.

That spark — the one where you catch yourself scrolling travel TikTok or feeling a little jealous of someone else’s beach photo — that’s readiness creeping back in. It’s quiet, but it’s there.

The First Trip Back

When I finally booked my first trip post-recovery, it was probably the most dangerous thing I could have done. I flew from NC to Hawaii for a tattoo sleeve session.

Person with long wavy hair wearing a blue butterfly-print dress and sunglasses stands at a seaside lookout on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. Behind them, turquoise waves crash against dark volcanic cliffs under a partly cloudy sky, capturing the beauty and power of the Pacific coastline. — Phoenyx posing at a rocky beach in Oahu.

I forgot my Diazepam for my panic attacks for PTSD
Sleep was non-existent thanks to forgetting my meds
I brought the wrong clothes (jeans are a no no for tattoo wear post-recovery)

So if you’ve been waiting for the “right time,” spoiler: it’s probably never going to feel perfect. Start small. Take a local day trip using my tips for getting back to travel again. Visit a park you’ve never actually rolled through. Eat at that restaurant you’ve been “saving for later.”

Accessible Travel Tip

If it’s your first trip back after time away, treat it like a test drive.

Book one night instead of three. Pick a destination close enough that you can bail if your body or energy says “nope.”

And check accessibility details ahead of time — even for “simple” things like hotel entry ramps, nearby restrooms, or parking. The less guessing you do, the easier it’ll be to relax once you get there.

Am I Ready to Travel with a Disability?

Wondering if you’re ready to travel again? I’ve been there—post-surgery, prosthetic and all. Here’s how to know when it’s time to say “screw it—let’s go.”

Check Out the Post!

A Low-Stakes Way to Start

Try this: set a “pretend travel day.” Pack a bag, test your gear, and explore somewhere close to home. It’s low-stakes but surprisingly useful — especially if it’s been a while since you’ve tested your energy, access setup, or just your comfort level with being out again.

You’re not testing your limits — you’re rebuilding trust with your body and your confidence.

And if you feel nervous the whole time? That’s normal. Confidence doesn’t show up first — it follows after the first few messy, awkward, deeply human attempts.

Takeaway

You’re not behind. You’re just recharging for your next adventure — ideally with snacks.

Question for You

Where would you go if nothing held you back? Hit reply — I actually want to know.

💙 Phoenyx