The holidays are a time for family, joy, and togetherness, but for seniors and individuals with medical needs, holiday travel can also bring unique challenges. Cold weather, busy roads, crowded clinics, and longer appointment delays can quickly turn a joyful time into a stressful one—especially if you or a loved one require regular transportation for medical treatments like dialysis, chemotherapy, or physical therapy.
At UDO Transport, we believe that everyone deserves safe, comfortable, and dignified travel, especially during the holiday season. Whether you’re heading to a family gathering or a routine appointment, our team is here to help you move confidently through the busiest time of the year.
In this guide, we’re sharing practical holiday travel tips tailored for seniors and patients—plus how UDO Transport keeps rides safe, warm, and worry-free all season long.
1. Plan Transportation Early
Holidays mean increased travel across North Carolina, and that includes medical visits, family outings, and pharmacy runs. Planning ahead is the key to avoiding delays and missed appointments.
Tip:
- Schedule your NEMT rides in advance, especially for dialysis or chemotherapy.
- Confirm your clinic’s holiday hours so your transportation matches their schedule.
- Let family members or caregivers know your travel plans.
At UDO Transport, we offer pre-scheduled holiday rides to ensure you’re never left waiting in the cold.
2. Dress in Layers and Weather-Proof Clothing
North Carolina winters can bring sudden cold snaps, rain, or even snow in some areas. Seniors and patients undergoing treatments often have lower tolerance for cold.
Tip:
- Wear layers that are easy to remove in warm clinics or vans.
- Don’t forget scarves, hats, gloves, and socks.
- Choose non-slip shoes to help prevent falls on icy or wet surfaces.
Our drivers will assist you with boarding and exiting, and our vans are temperature-controlled for comfort.
3. Keep Essentials Handy
Whether heading to a holiday gathering or a medical appointment, it’s helpful to have a small travel kit ready. Patients especially may need to bring items that provide comfort and prevent fatigue.
Suggested items:
- Snacks and water
- Medications or inhalers
- Medical records or appointment cards
- Comfort items like a neck pillow or blanket
- A charged phone for emergency contact
All UDO vehicles have ample storage and comfortable seating so you can travel stress-free.
Read More: Essential Prep Tips for Dialysis and Chemotherapy Transportation
4. Avoid Public Transport or Crowded Ride-Sharing
During the holidays, ride-share services and public transit can become overwhelmed and inconsistent—not to mention unreliable for riders with mobility challenges.
With UDO Transport, you’ll always have:
- A reserved ride tailored to your appointment time
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles
- One-on-one driver assistance from your front door to the clinic door
- A quiet, sanitized environment away from crowds
This is especially important for immune-compromised patients.
5. Notify Us of Special Holiday Needs
Every client has unique needs, especially during the holidays. If you’re carrying gifts, need extra time, or are traveling with a caregiver—we’re here to help.
Let us know if:
- You’re traveling with a family member
- You need help carrying packages or medical supplies
- Your mobility has recently changed
- You’re feeling fatigued after recent treatment
Our drivers are trained to adapt and support you, whatever the situation.
How UDO Transport Supports Holiday Travel
Here’s how we go the extra mile during the season:
- Holiday scheduling: Pre-book rides around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s
- Weather-safe vans: Warm, winter-ready vehicles
- Door-to-door help: Never walk alone in the cold
- Wheelchair transport: Easy access with ramps and secure seating
- Driver assistance: Compassionate professionals who care about your comfort
Whether you’re attending a family gathering or a clinic appointment, we treat every ride with care.
