An increasing number of holiday-makers are travelling later in the year to seek out sunshine with global searches for “winter holidays” skyrocketing by 3,200% in the last year alone and a recent survey revealing that 28% of people plan to travel during the colder months.
However, for those with allergies, or for parents travelling with allergic children, the prospect of being away from familiar safe routines can be daunting no matter the time of year. For those planning a winter escape, experts at allergy testing specialists Allergy Insider share the things you need to know before you travel.
Get prepped ahead of your trip
When travelling with allergies, preparation is key to ensuring the safety of you in the event of an emergency. Much of this essential planning should take place before your trip:
- Know your allergens and where to find medical help: Before you travel, get familiar with your allergies and their triggers and research the nearest hospitals at your destination. If you have health insurance, review your policy to confirm whether emergency care or healthcare visits are covered while you’re away.
- Be ready with medical identification: Wear a medical ID tag if you have asthma or severe allergies, and keep your allergist’s or doctor’s contact information easily accessible. If you’re travelling to a non-English speaking country, learn the word for “allergy” in the local language to ensure effective communication in case of an emergency.
- Pack essential medications and liquids in labelled containers: Always keep them in your carry-on luggage instead of checked bags. While TSA allows medical items that exceed typical limits, they will need to be screened, so be prepared. Also, check your airline’s allergy policies for added peace of mind.
Avoiding food allergens
Food allergies can pose significant challenges when travelling, especially in countries where the local language differs from your own. Having strategies in place can be a much-needed reassurance and help keep you safe:
- Keep copies of your emergency care plan handy: Always carry printed copies, along with “chef cards” that list your allergens and common ingredients it’s typically found in. If you’re heading somewhere where they don’t speak your language, print these cards in the local language to give to restaurant staff.
- Know the food labelling rules: Food labelling laws differ around the world, so do check the regulations before you go as well and call ahead to anywhere you may be eating to ask about their allergy policies. If possible, book a room with a kitchen as a fallback and pack nonperishable snacks to be extra prepared.
- Stay safe in the air: Check if your airline offers allergy-friendly meals, or pack your own. Wipe down your seat and tray table with disinfectant when boarding to prevent skin contact with any potential food particles.
Seasonal and year-round allergies
For those with seasonal, year-round and indoor allergies, triggers can be difficult to avoid but there are ways to limit exposure while travelling:
- Sleeping safely: It’s worth checking with your hotel how they can accommodate you, whether that’s with an allergy-friendly room or in one that is nonsmoking, pet-free, and mould-free. To reduce exposure during your stay, use air conditioning and keep hotel windows closed when possible. You can also shower and change your clothes after returning from outdoors to minimise the amount of pollen brought inside.
- Pack smart: Bring along a hypoallergenic pillow cover if you’re sensitive to mould or dust mites and use a saline spray during flights to combat dry air. Avoid airline pillows and blankets to minimise allergy triggers.
- Optimise your car environment: If driving, replace your car’s air filters and clean the HVAC system to reduce allergens. Keep windows up and use the air conditioning during times of pollution or pollen and consider driving in the early morning or late evening when pollution levels are typically lower.
Read the full guide on the Allergy Insider site which includes 30 tips to help you stay safe while travelling.
