Seasonal allergies are quite common during popular vacation months. Instead of spending your days off glistening in the sun, these seasonal allergies can make for an unenjoyable trip. Make sure your vacation is picture-perfect by following these tips to avoid allergies on vacation.
1. Turn the AC Up
Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds are all around us. Depending on where your vacation destination is, you may find yourself in the hotspot of these allergens. One way to prepare for this type of situation is to do research ahead of time to learn what allergens are in the area.
Additionally, Premier Allergy recommends keeping the AC on during your trip. If you’re driving in the car, running the AC will limit your exposure to the outdoor air. Similarly, having the AC on in a hotel room or Airbnb will keep the indoor pollen exposure low.
2. Protect Yourself Against Pet Dander
If You’re allergic to pets, make sure to take this into consideration when preparing for a vacation. Whether you’re visiting relatives that have cats or dogs or you book a room at a hotel that allows animals, either scenario can lead to an allergic reaction. The best way to prepare for pet dander is to make a reservation with pet-free hotels or motels or rent out an Airbnb.
Another option to consider is taking an antihistamine with you. This will help you reduce the effects of your allergic reaction to dander.
3. Bring Your Own Pillows
Dust mites are another issue that can trigger an allergic reaction. As dust mites are commonly found in motels, these creatures can make any vacation unbearable. Protect yourself against dust mites by packing your own pillows.
Having pillows with hypoallergenic covers is an effective best way to limit your exposure to dust mites. Another option to consider is to choose lodging options that are less likely to have dust mites on the property.
4. Protect Against Food Allergies
EpiPens are life-saving in an emergency situation involving food allergies or a bee sting. Experts from Premier Allergy recommend traveling on vacation with an EpiPen to make sure you’re protected against an allergy attack while traveling. Additionally, when eating at parties, weddings, restaurants, or on the road, make sure you’re vigilant of symptoms of an allergy attack. This way, you’ll be ready to intervene with the EpiPen the moment of an allergic reaction.
In addition to having an EpiPen on vacation to protect against food allergies, it’s a great idea to wash all dishes beforehand. This will help reduce your risk of coming into contact with allergens.
5. Pack Your Medicine in Your Carry-On Bag
It’s hard to predict when or where you will experience an allergic reaction. Should you be on a plane when an allergic reaction kicks in, it’s best to have your medicine already on hand. Packing your medications in a carry-on bag will make them easy to access in the event that you have an allergic reaction on the plane.
Make sure your medication is ready to go a few weeks ahead of your trip by calling for any prescription refills you may need. If need be, schedule a doctor’s appointment ahead of time to address your allergy concerns as it might be difficult to see a doctor during the trip.
In addition to bringing your medication on the plane, it’s a good idea to have a saline mist or spray with you as well. This will help you keep your nasal passages moist as the pressurized air in the plane can be quite drying.
6. Prepare for an Emergency
If you’re traveling abroad and experience a medical emergency, it’s important that you communicate exactly what is happening in an effective manner. Experts recommend learning key phrases in the local language so you can communicate your needs. Additionally, it’s a good idea to map out the locations of nearby hospitals ahead of time so you are prepared to get there yourself in an emergency situation.
Don’t let an allergic reaction ruin your upcoming vacation. With the right preventative measures, medication, and emergency preparedness tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing trip without the looming threat of allergens
