Whether it is yourself or a family member, we know that travelling with an allergy can be difficult. This is because on top of any stress associated with planning a holiday, you also need to be mindful of potential risk factors when it comes to accommodation and food. However, there is no need to worry – Saydon Pharmacy is here to help! We have compiled this guide containing 5 steps for safely travelling with allergies, to give you peace of mind.
1. Consider your destinations carefully
When it comes to booking your holiday, Allergy UK recommends that you factor in the following considerations surrounding potential reactions:
– Whether you understand the language
– Your method of transport
– If your allergies are covered under your travel insurance
– Whether you have enough medication for your holiday, and if you will be able to organise this
– If you have translation cards in case of an emergency
– Which emergency department is the nearest one to you
2. Research your flight times and airlines
As the food policy varies between airlines, you should make sure to clarify this with your airline before your trip. Moreover, you should make them aware of your allergy before you are due to fly. Additionally, Anaphylaxis Campaign claims that you should also tailor the time at which you travel to suit your individual allergies. This is because, for example, if you are allergic to eggs and milk, a flight outside of breakfast hours would be preferable. Conversely, they state that a morning flight may be more suitable for nut allergies, as planes are generally cleaned overnight. However, ultimately, it is important to check with your airline and inform them of your allergy before you board.
3. Organise necessary medication and documentation
If there is a possibility that you will have a reaction whilst you are away, you should ensure that you have plenty of medication for your trip. You should also carry your medication in your hand luggage so that it is accessible. The liquids allowance does not apply to liquid medication, however you may require a prescription or doctor’s note. This will need to be organised prior to your travel. Furthermore, you will need this documentation for adrenaline auto-injector (AAI) devices.
4. Communicate constantly
Even if you have already informed the airline of your allergy prior to arriving at the airport, you should remind them at every important opportunity. This includes when you are boarding the plane, as well as when any food is due to be eaten. Also, it may be useful to take wipes with you to clean down your seating areas and tray tables before use.
5. Check your destination
The aforementioned communication practises can also be exercised in restaurants, as well as at your accommodation. You should ensure that you ask whether they will supply suitable bedding beforehand, as well as whether your accommodation is pet-free if you have pet allergies, for example. Moreover, if you suffer from hay fever we recommend that you check the pollen count, as well as making alterations to your clothing choices and medications accordingly.
Looking for further guidance, as well as an insight into the allergy treatments we offer?
Check out our guide to hay fever season here.
If you are looking to jet off on your summer holidays, we are here to help. We offer professional advice on how to manage your allergies, as well as offering a range of tablets, eye drops and nasal sprays to suit all of your needs.
Don’t let your allergies get in the way of your well-deserved relaxing getaway –
Contact or visit us for guidance on travelling with allergies today!
This blog post was written on behalf of Saydon Pharmacy by Carla Moore from Pharmacy Mentor.