Tips for Traveling with Allergies
Think About Your Destination
Being near a large body of water, such as an ocean, may help reduce your exposure to pollen , depending on the types of trees and grasses around.
Going on a cruise can be an exciting alternative to consider, especially for people who are prone to seasonal allergies . Despite the fact that pollen particles can be transported out to sea, they’re highly unlikely to pose an allergy risk if the cruise ship is far away from land, as coastal winds can disperse them quickly. What’s more, some cruise ships even come with “allergy-friendly” cabins.
Fly the Allergy-Friendly Skies
Pet dander, mold spores, dust mites and pollen can stick to clothes, shoes, hair and luggage of people who board the same flight as you. To help minimize your exposure to these allergens, be sure to wipe down your tray table, arm rests and window area with cleansing wipes thoroughly before tossing them in a sealable bag.
The low humidity levels in airplane cabins may cause dehydration, which may cause your allergy symptoms to flare up.1 Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and pack your allergy medicine in case you experience an allergic reaction when flying. Be sure to keep your medicine in its original packaging to avoid any complications with the Transportation Security Administration.2
DID YOU KNOW?
The allergens from pet dander could also be racking up some frequent flier miles with you, especially if there’s a furry pet in a carrier under the seat, or if the pet dander has managed to stick to another passenger’s clothes or shoes. In fact, one study showed the allergens from pet dander was detected on all the seats of a domestic flight airplane.
Time Your Drive
A few studies have also found that pollen particles, as well as air pollution that is caused by exhaust emissions from vehicles, can interact and make allergies worse. To help minimize your exposure, plan your drive for in the morning or late in the evening, when the roads are usually free. Be sure to keep the air-conditioning on, and the windows closed, so pollen spores can’t enter your vehicle.
Call the front desk to check if your hotel provides “ allergy -free” rooms before booking your trip. Be sure to use the air conditioner instead of opening your hotel room’s windows to help minimise your exposure to pollen. You can also opt to pack a zippered, anti- allergen pillow case along to lessen your exposure to dust mites .
Keep Allergy Medication on Hand
It’s a good idea to keep allergy medicine in your purse or backpack, so you’re prepared wherever your travels take you. Children’s Clarityn® Syrup 24-hour is safe for kids aged 2 years and older.
REFERENCES
- Sánchez-Borges, Mario & Cardona, Victòria & Worm, Margitta & F. Lockey, Richard & Sheikh, Aziz & Greenberger, Paul & J. Ansotegui, Ignacio & Ebisawa, Motohiro & El-Gamal, Yehia & Fineman, Stanley & Geller, Mario & Gonzalez-Estrada, Alexei & Tanno, Luciana & Thong, Bernard. (2017). In-flight allergic emergencies. World Allergy Organization Journal. 10. 10.1186/s40413-017-0148-1.
- Travelling Abroad With Medicine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed Mar 30, 2022
