Summer is the time many folks choose to take vacations and travel to exotic destinations. To those who have allergies or asthma, summer vacationing represents the added stress of a different environment with new ways to set off your reactions. Don't let allergies take control of your vacation. It may take a little more planning, but allergic reactions don't have to ruin trip.
Planning begins even before you choose your destination. What region do you plan on traveling to? What's the climate like? What allergens and irritants are common there? These are all questions you'll want to ask when selecting a vacation spot.
Once you you've decided on a place be sure to check the counts for common allergens where available.
Packing
When you're ready to pack, keep your allergies and asthma in mind and try to think of any eventuality where you may suffer a reaction or attack.
Pack all medications you may need in a carry-on. Don't put them in a suitcase, as is frequently done. You'll want them right at hand in the event that you need them while you're sitting on the plane or even driving. Allergies and asthma can strike anywhere so you should have relief readily available. Also, in case your trip is delayed or for whatever reason you can't get back home, take at least one day's extra dosage for daily medications and carry your prescription along.
Traveling by air
If you're traveling by air, it's critical to keep all medications in the original packaging with a pharmacy label if possible. Increased security measures at airports mean any medication not properly labeled and stored risks running afoul of the Transportation Security Administration. Give your meds their own bag, separate from cosmetics and other liquids. If it's in three-ounce or smaller quantities, you can put it in a clear quart-sized container as you do with shampoo and perfume.
Traveling by car
Your vacation spot may be in driving distance or you might just decide on a road trip, either way there are measures you can take in the car to keep you allergen-free. First, run the AC for about 10 minutes before you set out to clear the car of any spores or other irritants in the air. Once you're on the road, drive with your windows up to stop allergens from blowing in and remember to keep your AC on the recirculation setting rather than outdoor vent. Travel during off-peak traffic times. Not only do you avoid sitting in long lines of cars but you also reduce your exposure to the ozone pollution and other irritants in vehicle exhaust.
Upon arrival
When you arrive at your destination, there's still a little more to do to ensure an allergy-free stay. Try to book an allergy-friendly room if possible, which should include pillow and mattress covers and hypoallergenic linens. Just in case they don't have such accommodations, you should pack some from home or order a set from Allergybegone.com. If you have mold allergies, request a sunny, dry room away from the pool. Certainly try to stay in a non-smoking hotel or at least as far from the smoking section as possible. Traveling with a portable air purifier is also a good idea. If you use special soaps or cleansers, travel with them and bring a few extras.
Allergies and asthma may always be your travel companions but they don't have to determine the quality of your vacation. Allergybegone.com offers all the allergy products you need to have a reaction-free trip. Stay healthy and enjoy your summer.
