Traveling is fun and thrilling, but for sensitive individuals, it is often a source of concern and anxiety. Imagine landing at your dream destination and exploring the city or the country with a stuffy nose. It can really throw a kink in all the fun.
Allergic rhinitis, unfortunately, is a very common condition. One in five people in the United Kingdom suffer from allergies. In the United States, approximately 40 million to 60 million Americans are affected by allergic rhinitis. If you, too, suffer from the same, know you’re not alone.
Seasonal allergies are a nuisance, but proper planning will help you enjoy a sneeze and sniffle-free trip. Whether you plan to explore lush landscapes or chase sunsets on sandy shores, the following tips will help you pack and travel confidently.
#1 Research Your Destination First
It doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling within the USA or overseas. Researching your destination is important. Different regions have different climates, allergens, and local cuisines that may trigger your allergies. That is why it’s important to find out everything about the city or country you’re planning to visit.
Let’s take an example: you’re planning a trip to Canada. Aeroallergens occur naturally in Canada, meaning they are widely dispersed across the country. There’s a high likelihood that outdoor airborne fungi such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria, and Cladosporium may trigger allergic reactions in sensitized people.
Make sure to thoroughly research prevalent pollen seasons, common allergens, and local dishes in the area. Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to figure out potential triggers and act soundly throughout your trip.
#2 Pack Epinephrine Injectors and Antihistamines
Never should you leave for a trip without packing your medications. You never know whether or not they are sold where you’re planning a trip to.
Also, pack epinephrine injectors, which you can use in case of asthma attacks and severe allergic reactions. Epinephrine injectors usually come in a pack of two. Keep both in your carry-on suitcase. That way, if one is broken, drops, faulty, or doesn’t administer enough doses of epinephrine, the second one will come to your rescue.
Along with epinephrine injectors, pack antihistamines and asthma medications in your carry-on suitcase. Also, don’t forget to add prescription medicines to your bag if you’re on any. This can be of great help whenever you experience an allergy attack.
#3 Carry Your Own Pillow
A pillow is a must-have in your carry-on suitcase for individuals with allergic rhinitis. Of course, we say so due to hygienic reasons.
On average, a hotel pillow is used by 243 to 365 people before it is washed. That’s a pillow with a lot of history and other undesirable things. If you sleep on it, there is a high possibility that dust mites, allergies, or other contaminants will trigger your allergies.
This is not to say that hotel authorities do not take measures to clean pillows. But laundering them daily isn’t possible.
You should always carry your own pillow to keep your allergies at bay while traveling. Do not bring just any pillow you have at home. Neck pillows are pleasant to sleep on but bulky, writes Tortuga. Further, it advises travelers to opt for inflatable pillows as they don’t occupy much space and can be used even on the go.
One significant advantage of keeping your pillow in a carry-on suitcase is that you can use it on the flight and even cab while traveling to the hotel.
Also, people allergic to bleaches, perfumes, or soaps should avoid using hotel pillows. That’s because the covers are usually washed with detergents full of fragrance and chemicals, which would trigger allergic reactions.
#4 Bring Along a Portable Humidity or Temperature Gauge
Traveling to Houston or New Orleans? Then you should carry a portable humidity gauge, for these two are the most humid cities in the United States. Naturally, mold allergy or indoor allergy is a common phenomenon in these cities.
Check in ahead of time in the hotel and ask the management to put a humidifier in your room. As there’s no guarantee you will get it on the spot, you can inform the hotel authorities beforehand about your requirement for a humidifier. This way, you won’t have to deal with surprises later on.
Now, the humidity level of your room should be less than 50 percent. Too humid or too dry indoor environments cause dry skin, throat, and nasal passage. This, ultimately, triggers allergic reactions rather than relieving them.
How would you then figure out how humid the room is? That’s where a portable humidity or temperature gauge will come in handy. Portable humidity or temperature gauges are devices that tell humidity as well as the temperature level. You can always use it indoors to check if the place is too less or overly humid.
The Key Takeaway
Traveling with allergies might seem challenging, but you can still explore the world and create lasting memories without trouble. However, knowing what triggers your allergies is essential. That way, you can avoid environments where your potential triggers will likely be found.
However, if you’re unaware of allergens that trigger allergic reactions, it’s best to consult a doctor before you set out on the trip. Pack all your anti-allergy medications and epinephrine injectors, so you can travel stress-free and make the most of your trip.
