Everyone looks forward to taking a vacation and getting away from it all, especially during the holiday season. But for people with allergies, the idea of leaving one’s controlled environment can be concerning. Those with environmental allergies and asthma may be challenged with many additional triggers in their vacation environment, such as dust mite-filled beds and carpets in hotels, guest homes and vacation properties, or wheeze-inspiring pollens and molds found in the great outdoors. For those with food allergies, traveling also presents unique challenges, as venturing into unknown restaurants where cross-contamination of foods with allergens could be life threatening.

Think and Plan Ahead

Perhaps the best way to boost confidence and calm nerves is to research your trip thoroughly. Think ahead. Instead of trying to push worries aside, use them as a guide to prepare yourself for the allergy-invoking situations you may encounter while away from home. You already know how to manage your allergies – you do it every day. Those strategies that help you cope at home can also be useful when traveling. Keep in mind that when traveling, the climate and season of your destination will dictate your specific allergen and irritant exposure.:
  • In tropical, damp climates, you may have increased exposure to allergens, such as dust mites, airborne molds, and specific pollens.
  • In cold, damp climates, you may be exposed to more house dust mites and indoor mold.
  • Cold, frigid, dry air environments can also be an irritant for people with asthma.

No matter the climate, asthmatics should be aware of and carry their Asthma Action Plan, recommended by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Asthma Education and Prevention Program.

Traveling To and From Your Destination

Planes, Trains and Automobiles...those with allergies or asthma already know these modes of transportation are all possible sources of allergic triggers when traveling. The good news is there are some simple allergen avoidance measures that will get you off to a good start.
  • Air quality on planes can be a concern for the allergic or asthmatic individual. Because of the closed nature of an aircraft's circulation system, dry, re-circulated air can trigger sinus irritation and lead to exposure of airborne contaminants. By using a saline nasal spray once every hour to keep your nasal membranes moist, you will be more comfortable during and after your flight.
    U.S. flights are all non-smoking, but there are some International flights where smoking is still permitted. If you find yourself on such a flight, ask to be seated as far away from the smoking section as possible.
  • Upholstery, carpeting and ventilation systems in any vehicle, such as car, bus, boat or train, can harbor dust mites, mold, and pollen, which can trigger your allergic symptoms.
    You really can’t do much about a bus or train (except take your controller medication and have your rescue medication handy). However, when traveling by car, it may help to turn on air conditioning or heat with the windows open for at least ten minutes before embarking to help remove dust mite allergens and/or mold that has accumulated in the system.
    Also, traveling with your windows up and using the air conditioning will avoid exposure if you are allergic to outdoor allergens, such as pollens and molds.

Accommodations

Now that you’ve thought about your travels, and how to avoid unnecessary triggers, what about your accommodation?
  • Some hotel chains are now offer “allergy proof” rooms. When making reservations, inquire about availability, and ask what environmental control measures the hotel has undertaken to make the room allergy free.
    You can also request a sunny room away from the pool to avoid any likelihood of mold exposure. If animal dander triggers your symptoms, ask for a room where pets have not been allowed. Always stay in a non-smoking room.
  • If you’re staying with family or friends, remind them of your triggers. Chances are they won’t be able to clear away all the allergens, but they can clean and vacuum thoroughly, especially in the room you’ll sleep in.
  • Vacations at the beach can be another source of triggers. If you are staying in a cottage, make sure it is thoroughly cleaned and aired out before your arrival to reduce dust mite and mold concentrations.
    Lazy days on the beach also mean increased sun and water exposure, which can aggravate a skin condition called eczema. Protecting your skin with Vanicream sunscreen and using Vanicream non-irritating skin lotion can alleviate any potential skin damage as a result of overexposure.
  • If you have skin sensitivities, toss a Sampler Pack with 5 unique Vanicream and Free&Clear skin and hair care products into your overnight bag. These products are free free of fragrances, dyes, and common chemical irritants.

Food Awareness

Let’s face it, we all like to indulge once in a while, and there’s nothing better than enjoying good food on your vacation. However, if you have food allergies, the same precautions you use at home will guide you to make safe decisions when traveling. Other tips:
  • To avoid any unwanted allergic food-related surprises when traveling in a foreign country, take extra precautions by researching restaurants ahead of time, and asking questions about ingredients and food preparation.
  • If your small allergic child will be vacationing with you, have him or her wear a Food Allergy Awareness Bracelet, which displays each food allergy with a colorful iconic charm that transcends language barriers and alerts others to your child's food allergies.

Relax & Enjoy!

While allergies and asthma may slow you down, good planning ahead will minimize your symptoms so that you can enjoy the vacation you so justly deserve!