Traveling with Allergies: Plan Ahead

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On the Road

For Flights Long or Short

Vacationing in a Hotel

Staying at a Friend’s House

Meeting New Pets

Travel Well

Mold or dust mites can be hiding in a car’s upholstery and ventilation. So vacuum and wipe down the insides of your car before a long trip. Don’t roll down the windows––use the air-conditioning to help filter out allergens.

Sinus pressure due to allergies? You know all too well that landings and takeoffs can be unbearable. Get relief by taking medicine with a decongestant, or delaying travel until your symptoms pass.
If you’re tempted to use the overhead fan, remember that plane air is very dry. Saline nasal sprays can help keep the membranes of your nose moist.

Even the best hotel rooms can have dust and mold in the beds, carpet and upholstery. Request a sunny, dry room away from the pool.

Since guest bedrooms aren’t used as often as other rooms, there may be dust to trigger your symptoms. So bring a clean pillowcase to slip over one of the pillows.
Heating and air conditioning systems can also trigger allergy symptoms. Ask your friends if they have a room air filter you can use.

Staying at a friend’s house could mean you’re introduced to new pets, and a whole new set of allergens. Before you arrive, ask your host about any pets in the house, and be sure to pack your allergy medication.

Wherever you’re traveling, plan ahead so you can defend yourself against allergy attacks. More importantly, manage them when you venture into unfamiliar territory.

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