Traveling in a Larger Body: Practical Tips from Lived Experience
Travel should be about connecting to the world around you. But for people living in larger bodies, travel can come with additional logistics and emotional challenges that may make some people choose not to travel altogether. We’re here to say something different – if you want to travel, you deserve to.
Sharon Maxwell, a mental health advocate and fat activist, shares her lived experience traveling in a larger body and offers practical tips to make trips more comfortable.
Tips for Traveling in a Larger Body
1. Plan ahead.
Research accommodations before you travel. Look up airline seating policies, hotel amenities, and activity requirements ahead of time to reduce the risk of stressful surprises.
2. Choose body-inclusive airlines.
Some airlines offer “customer of size” policies or additional seating accommodations. Reviewing airline policies before booking can help you travel more comfortably.
3. Consider TSA PreCheck.
Programs like TSA PreCheck can make airport security smoother and help avoid uncomfortable screening experiences.
4. Ask for preboarding or additional space if needed.
Preboarding and seatbelt extenders are common accommodations that can make flying more comfortable.
5. Prioritize hydration and self-care.
Stretch before flights, drink water, and give your body the care it needs during long travel days.
6. Prepare for public transportation.
If possible, look for seating with additional room or single seats on buses or trains.
7. Research attractions and activities.
Amusement parks, rides, and excursions may have seating or safety restrictions. Checking ahead allows you to plan activities that feel accessible and enjoyable.
8. Pack for comfort.
Comfortable clothing, chafing prevention, and supportive shoes can make a big difference when you’re walking or traveling for long periods.
9. Review weight restrictions when needed.
Certain activities such as ziplining, horseback riding, or rafting may have safety limits. Being informed ahead of time helps you make the best choices for your trip.
10. Find community and resources.
Online groups and travel communities focused on body inclusivity can provide helpful advice and encouragement.
For Loved Ones Traveling With Someone in a Larger Body
If you’re planning a trip with a loved one in a larger body, it’s important to acknowledge how certain activities or logistics may impact them. Be intentional and be kind. Travel can make people feel vulnerable, especially when navigating spaces that weren’t designed with body diversity in mind. Having honest conversations, offering to help with planning, and being willing to advocate when needed can make travel feel far more enjoyable for your loved one.
Travel Should Be Accessible to Everyone.
Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center is an international center for eating disorders and mood, anxiety and trauma-related disorders recovery providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders and PTSD. We offer the full spectrum of treatment services adults, adolescents and children of all genders, including Inpatient, Residential, Partial Hospitalization and Outpatient programs. Utilizing a full continuum of care, we provide expert behavioral health and medical treatment for eating disorders and mood, anxiety and trauma-related disorders in an environment of compassion, collaboration, integrity, inclusivity, accountability and flexibility.