5 Tips for Traveling With Allergies During the Holidays

With the holiday season fast approaching, many people will be traveling in and out of Arizona. If you or family member have allergies, preparing for a trip presents several extra challenges. Moving to a new environment could trigger allergic symptoms you have managed to keep in check. The following tips can help you plan a safer, more pleasant trip and a memorable holiday.

1. Make sure you pack your allergy medication.

Prepare all the medication you may need even if your allergic symptoms are infrequent. You should have more than enough to get through your trip. It is also a good idea to refill your prescriptions before leaving and also get any over-the-counter medication you might need. Packing extra medication will save you the trouble of looking for your prescription later, especially in a foreign country. Have your medicine with you at all times. Keep it in your handbag during your flight- liquid medicine is excepted from the 100 ml rule.

See also: Flonase Vs Zyrtec Allergy Medications – Which Is Better and Why?

2. Add a few useful things to your suitcase.

Medication aside, there are some other useful things you should include while packing:

a piece of paper with a list of the medical conditions you have, the medicine you take, the prescribing physician, and the dosage
your health insurance card
an allergy-proof pillow and mattress casings (if you have a dust mite allergy)
packets of wipes to clean the surfaces you come into contact with
a mask that can reduce exposure to allergens you can’t avoid while traveling or on high pollen count days at your destination

3. Prepare to deal with food allergies

Food allergies can be tricky when you are away from home, as meal preparation is usually out of your control. If you are traveling by plane, plan for your flight by finding out about the airline’s policy on food allergies. It may be a good idea to bring some food from home if there won’t be any allergen-free options for you. Inform the airline staff about your condition and be clear about the dangers you are facing. Ask questions about the meals served on the plane and decline any food that you think is unsafe. Don’t forget to have an EpiPen with you for emergencies. What’s more, when you get to your destination, an allergy alert chef card can be life-saving when you eat out at a restaurant.

4. Manage your hay fever

Don’t let your allergic rhinitis ruin your holiday. Consult your doctor on how to manage it during your trip. Moreover, learn about pollen levels for your destination this time of year. Some areas may affect you more than others, especially if you are visiting the countryside. If you are planning a road trip, get your vehicle ready: change the air filters, clean the ventilation as well as the air-conditioning system. Drive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid high pollen levels.

5. Beware of pet allergies

Pet dander is one of the most difficult allergens to avoid. Even if pets are not present, dander lingers on people’s clothes. However, there are things you can do to minimize the risk of exposure. Find out if your airline or train service allows pets on board. If there may be animals present, ask to be seated away from them. If you are visiting friends or family with pets, consider staying overnight at a nearby hotel that doesn’t allow pets.

Traveling with allergies can be very stressful. However, the right preparation will help you relax and enjoy your holiday. Don’t forget to check with your allergist to discuss your trip and get advice on how to avoid possible allergy risks.

If you are suddenly starting to suffer from allergies, or have not found the right doctor to help you, please call our well-respected allergy clinic. Our allergy doctors have helped thousands of patients in Arizona breathe a little easier. You deserve to live a life that is free of allergy attacks. Call today at 602-242-4592, or book an appointment immediately online here!

1. Make sure you pack your allergy medication.

2. Add a few useful things to your suitcase.

3. Prepare to deal with food allergies

4. Manage your hay fever

5. Beware of pet allergies

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