The holiday season is around the corner. Are you among the millions of Americans who’ll be traveling soon? Whether you’re visiting family in another state or heading to a vacation destination, it’s essential to prepare yourself and your loved ones who have environmental and substance allergies, food allergies, and/or asthma for the trip.
Our board-certified allergists with Advanced Allergy & Asthma help keep you safe so that you can enjoy your vacation. The following are helpful strategies to ensure that you bring back many happy memories.
Research the common allergens where you’re headed so you can plan effectively. If you’re headed to a dry, sunny climate, ragweed might be an issue for you. If you’re going to a place like Costa Rica with rain and moist, warm forests, you may encounter mold.
On the other hand, are you going to a ski resort for part of the holidays? Cold, crisp air may make your hands dry, but you shouldn’t be bothered by mold. Perhaps you love the beach – in part because you feel good there; the fresh ocean air and the breezes keep allergens at bay.
Now that you’ve checked the weather and the climate where you’re going, it’s time to pack for the trip. Do you have a trip list? If not, start one now. That way, you won’t forget the needed items.
Subdivide your list into categories such as clothing, toiletries, sports gear, medications, and any other relevant categories. Under medications, list all of the Allergy and/or asthma medications you’ll need. What about your pills, inhaler, nebulizer, skin creams, and Epi-pens?
Ensure that your hotel, condo, or other accommodation has a designated no-smoking room. Some hotel chains are smoke-free now.
If you have food allergies, you’re likely always looking for accommodations with a kitchen so that you can make some food of your own. Pack grocery bags and a cooler in your car with foods you like and can eat. Check out Allergy Eats on social media ahead of time to gain useful information and check with locals in that area.
Is your car ready for a road trip? Always ensure your cabin air filter and engine air filter are clean. They should be changed on a regular schedule.
If you’re renting a car, ask the company to confirm that it has always been a smoke-free vehicle. If you encounter a dust storm – whether it’s one caused by the weather or one caused by construction on the road, push your inside air option so the inside air circulates while you’re moving through the dust.
Your inhaler, EpiPen, and other essential medications you may need should be in a bag that you keep within easy reach in the car. If you’re the driver, ensure that your front seat passenger can hand you what you need in a pinch.
Use your air conditioner to prevent dust and pollen from blowing into the car. If you’re riding on country roads, goldenrod or ragweed is plentiful. The air conditioner also lowers the humidity level in the car if it’s hot and sticky outside.
Try to time your trip so that you arrive either before or after rush hour. No one wants to be sitting in traffic, breathing the fumes of the cars and trucks around you.
Contact Advanced Allergy & Asthma or schedule an appointment through our online portal for all your allergy and asthma needs. We help you gain control of your allergies or asthma and maintain your quality of life.
