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Traveling with Allergies: 7 Tips for a Safe Journey + Free Downloadable Checklist & Allergy Cards

Updated: Dec 22, 2023



When it comes to traveling with allergies, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Whether you're heading to a new destination, going on a business trip, or embarking on a vacation, allergies shouldn't hold you back. In this guide, we'll share valuable tips to help you travel with allergies safely. From planning ahead to managing allergy symptoms on the road, we've got you covered.


Outdoor shot of a woman with pollen allergies who feels unwell holding a piece of tissue.
RealPeopleGroup / Getty Images Signature

Tips for Traveling With Allergies

Traveling is supposed to be a fun and exciting experience, but it can be difficult to enjoy yourself if you're suffering from allergies. If you're one of the millions of people with allergies, it's important to plan ahead and take steps to manage your symptoms while traveling.


Here are some tips for a safe journey:


1. Know Your Triggers

The first step to safe travel with allergies is to understand your specific triggers. Are you allergic to pollen, pet dander, food, or insect stings? Knowing your allergens is crucial for planning a safe trip. Once you identify your triggers, research the destination to anticipate potential encounters and take necessary precautions.


 

Allergy Testing

Person undergoing allergen test at a clinic.
Allergy Testing / Pixel Shot

If you are unsure what causes your allergy symptoms, it might be time to consider taking an allergy test before your travel plans to err on the side of caution. are available today and are typically administered by allergists or ENT specialists.


At ENT Family, we specialize in swift and minimally invasive allergy tests utilizing AllergiEnd. Our comprehensive assessments cover a spectrum of food and environmental allergens. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, allergy-informed life!


Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd suite 201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States

Phone: 754-888-1368


 

2. Consult Your Allergist

Before your trip, consult your allergist or ENT specialist. They can provide advice on managing your allergies while traveling, update your prescriptions, and discuss emergency plans. Make sure you have any necessary medications and devices such as epinephrine auto-injectors on hand.


3. Plan Your Accommodations Wisely

When booking accommodations, choose allergy-friendly options. Look for hotels and rentals that offer hypoallergenic rooms or have stringent cleaning protocols to minimize allergens. You can also request special bedding or air purifiers if needed.


4. Pack Allergy Essentials

Packing is a crucial aspect of traveling with allergies. Make a checklist of allergy essentials, including:

  • Medications: Ensure you have an adequate supply of your allergy medications and keep them in their original packaging. In addition to packing your regular medications, you may also want to pack some additional items to help manage your symptoms, such as:

    • Saline nasal spray

    • Eye drops

    • Tissues

    • Face masks

    • Hand sanitizers or alcohol

  • Allergy-friendly snacks: Carry safe, pre-packaged snacks to avoid allergenic foods.

  • Hypoallergenic pillow covers or beddings: These can be particularly helpful for avoiding dust mites.

  • A list of local hospitals and clinics at your destination.

OPTIONAL: Air purifier: Portable air purifiers can help you breathe easier in hotel rooms.


5. Inform Travel Companions

If you're traveling with others, make sure they are aware of your allergies and how to respond in case of an allergic reaction. Educate them on the use of any necessary allergy medications or epinephrine.


Woman self-administering an auto epinephrine injector on her thigh.
Andrey Popov / Getty Images

6. Watch What You Eat

Dining out can be a challenge when you have food allergies. Research restaurants in advance to identify allergy-friendly options. Communicate your allergies to restaurant staff, and double-check ingredients to avoid accidental exposure.


Some people like to bring travel-sized condiments to get the most out of their meals and add that extra kick of flavor to their orders!


7. Be Cautious with Air Travel

Airports and airplanes can be hotspots for allergens. Consider the following tips for air travel:

  • Notify the airline in advance of your allergies to request special accommodations.

  • Carry your own snacks to ensure they are safe to eat.

  • Wipe down your seating area to remove potential allergens.


Traveling with allergies is entirely manageable with proper planning and precautions. By knowing your triggers, consulting your allergist, and taking the necessary steps to stay safe, you can embark on a journey without letting allergies hold you back. With these tips, your travels can be not only safe but also enjoyable. Bon voyage!




Travel-Safe Allergy Checklist

Mockup of ENT Family's Travel Safe Allergy Checklist printed out.

Embarking on a new adventure is thrilling, but for allergy sufferers, it can also bring a hint of anxiety. Print out our free Travel-Safe Allergy Checklist to help turn your travel dreams into a reality while keeping you and your family's allergies in check!





Travel-Safe Food Allergy Cards


With allergy cards, effectively communicate your food allergies to restaurant staff, ensuring they grasp the severity and specifics of your dietary restrictions. The tangible and visual aspects of common allergens on our cards help reduce the risk of accidental exposure to allergens, knowing your dietary needs are acknowledged and catered to.


Currently, the cards are available in 10 different languages including:

  • English

  • Chinese

  • French

  • German

  • Italian

  • Japanese

  • Korean

  • Russian

  • Spanish

  • Swedish


A downloadable PDF for ENT Family's Travel-Safe Food Allergy Cards available in 10 languages.

Click the button below to choose your preferred language for your Travel-Safe Food Allergy Cards!








Dr. David Eleff, Otolaryngologist/Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist at ENT Family in Hollywood, Florida.

This article has been medically reviewed by  otolaryngologist, David Eleff, M.D.

ENT Family Blog

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