Travelling with allergies: Essential tips for a safe and enjoyable trip
Posted: 5th July 2024 | Posted by Costa
Travelling with allergies: Essential tips for a safe and enjoyable trip
Summer’s here, and you’re finally getting around to planning that dream holiday to Italy. You’re excited about the Vatican, the art, and, of course, the food. But, during a lovely dinner in Rome, you suddenly experience severe stomach cramps and hives. The culprit? A hidden nut in your pesto sauce.
Travelling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, offering a chance to explore new cultures, foods, and landscapes. However, for those with allergies, it can also bring about a unique set of challenges. Whether you’re journeying through the bustling streets of Bangkok or the serene landscapes of the Swiss Alps, managing your allergies effectively can make all the difference.
Understanding allergens: What to watch out for
Around 20 million people in the UK suffer from allergies, and many experience heightened symptoms while travelling. Proper preparation and management can prevent allergic reactions and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable trip. Here’s what to look for:
- Food allergens: Foods can vary greatly across regions. Common food allergens include nuts, shellfish, and dairy. According to Allergy UK, around 2 million people in the UK have food allergies, making this a critical area of concern when travelling.
- Environmental allergens: Pollen levels can differ significantly by location and season. For example, grass pollen peaks in late spring and early summer in many parts of Europe, while tree pollen may be more prominent in other regions.
- Insect stings: Exploring the outdoors in countries like Australia or Brazil can expose you to insects like bees, wasps, and mosquitoes, which can cause allergic reactions.
Tips for safe and enjoyable travel:
- Plan: Research your destination’s common allergens. Websites like Pollen.com can provide local pollen forecasts. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare.
- Pack smart: Bring your allergy medications, including antihistamines, inhalers, and epinephrine auto-injectors if needed. Consider packing a travel-sized air purifier for your hotel room.
- Food precautions: Learn key phrases in the local language to communicate your food allergies. For instance, knowing how to say “I am allergic to nuts” in Italian (“Sono allergico alle noci”) can be crucial. Also, consider carrying allergy translation cards.
- Check accommodations: Contact hotels or rental properties in advance to request allergy-friendly rooms. For example, request a room that is pet-free and smoke-free.
- Stay hydrated and nourished: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can help manage your symptoms. Dehydration can exacerbate allergic reactions, so drink plenty of water, especially in warmer climates.
- Be prepared for emergencies: Know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic. Keep a card with your medical information, including allergies and emergency contacts, in both English and the local language.
- Enjoy outdoor activities safely: When participating in outdoor activities, wear protective clothing to minimise exposure to pollen and insects. Sunglasses and hats can also help reduce contact with allergens.
Take control of your health
If you frequently travel and suffer from allergies, consider allergy testing to identify specific triggers. Our allergy tests are precise and patient-friendly, providing valuable insights that can help you plan your travels better and avoid discomfort.
Don’t let allergies hold you back from exploring the world. By understanding your triggers and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy safe and fulfilling travels. Register as a new patient today to take the first step towards being in control of your health. Or, if you prefer to test in the comfort of your own home, you can order one of our home test kits.