It’s never been easier for LGBTQ+ travellers to see the world. As visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community grows, travellers have more options for independent travel. There are also an increasing number of LGBTQ+-focused companies specializing in tours, cruises, and custom trips that offer adventure, luxury, family fun, or simply a safe space to be yourself. According to OutNow Consulting, LGBTQ+ travellers spent $218 billion dollars on travel and tourism in 2018 alone.
Below you'll find information LGBTQ+ travellers should keep in mind when planning a trip, including tips on staying safe, the importance of researching LGBTQ+ laws and cultural attitudes, and what to do if you need to see a doctor abroad. Currently, there are limited resources out there about what LGBTQ+ travellers (particularly trans folks) should consider when seeking medical care during travel. We try to fill the gap by providing some guidance with help from travel writer Bani Amor, who shares their tips for trans travellers throughout the article.
The more you know, the easier it is to plan a safe and healthy trip. Keep these travel health basics in mind:
Tips for trans travellers: What should I consider when planning a trip?
Travel writer, Bani Amor, provides advice for trans folks who are medically transitioning: First, consider everything you’re going to need for the duration of your trip – hormones, packers, binders, gel inserts, etc. and count how much is needed with the aim that you’d bring more than enough with you. Then separate what you can get on your trip versus not. This requires research. Is there a place where you can get free or cheap clean syringes at the rate at which you’ll need them for the duration of your trip? Do you really need to bring a lot of alcohol wipes or can you just buy them elsewhere? And will you have to either bring a cooler to keep liquid hormones refrigerated or have access to one for the duration of your trip?
If you can’t bring everything with you, look up local laws and see what you’d need to bring to be able to possibly get gender-specific medical care abroad. Do you need a note from your doctor or psychiatrist?
Learn about cultural attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people at your destination, which may be different from what you’re used to. Research your destination and talk to other LGBTQ+ travellers and locals to find out about their experiences.
Some countries also have laws that put LGBTQ+ people at risk. Anti-LGBTQ+ laws often use vague, discriminatory terms like ‘immorality’ or ‘indecency’. As a result, LGBTQ+ people can be targeted for many different reasons including their appearance, public displays of affection, expressing support for the LGBTQ+ community, or communicating on same-sex dating apps. Penalties for breaking these laws can include imprisonment or even the death penalty. It’s definitely possible to travel in countries with anti-LGBTQ+ laws, but staying safe begins with learning about local laws and how they are enforced.
Here are a few resources on LGBTQ+ laws around the world to get you started:
Let’s say that despite your best efforts to stay well, you’re ill and need to see a doctor during your trip. Where can you turn?
University hospitals typically offer reliable medical care and often have English-speaking doctors on staff. Bringing a friend with you to the hospital or clinic can help you feel more comfortable and reduce anxiety.
If you have travel health insurance, you should also contact your insurer. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be limited to the doctors in their network.
Tips for trans travellers: Where can I find a doctor abroad?
Bani Amor suggests looking at your travel health insurance policy first: If shopping for travel insurance, make sure that this question is addressed in your research. I would also look for LGBTQIA+ drop-in centers. Make sure your legal documents are in order and translated. Try to have a friend with you if going to the hospital or even a pharmacy. As always, research what trans people from that place are saying online.
It’s best to purchase prescription and over-the-counter medication before you travel. If you need to purchase medication abroad, buy it from a licensed pharmacist. Never buy medication from street markets. Fake medications are common worldwide and they can have deadly consequences.
If you’re travelling with medication, a medical device, or medical supplies (such as syringes), ensure that your name on the label matches the name on your passport. Bring a letter from your health practitioner that includes the generic and brand name of your medication, the condition being treated, the dosage, and details of any medical devices or supplies if needed. If possible, have the letter translated into your destination country’s language. This can help to prevent issues at border crossings. If you need a prescription refill while you’re travelling, this documentation can help the doctor and pharmacist at your destination determine which medication and dosage to prescribe.
Staying safe and healthy as an LGBTQ+ traveller takes planning, but it’s worth it. Keep these 3 things in mind:
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your trip!
Last reviewed and updated: December 11, 2020.
Image by Brianna Swank
When you have reached the point where you no longer expect a response, you will at last be able to give in such a way that the other is able to receive and be grateful. - Dag Hammarskjöld
