Traveling with Asthma: Before Packing

8 hours ago

2 min read

Asthma is not a barrier to travel. School trips, family vacations, camping trips, or exchange programs abroad can all be safely undertaken with a little preparation. Since the environment, climate, and routine change during travel, planning for asthma beforehand will preserve your enjoyment of the trip.

Before setting off

Check with your doctor: Before a long trip, make sure your asthma is under control. Update your action plan if necessary.
Sufficient medication: Bring enough medication for the duration of your trip, plus extra medication in case of delays.
Spare inhaler: If possible, have two reliever inhalers and carry them in separate bags.
Documents: Bring a copy of your action plan, the active ingredient names of your medications, and your doctor's contact information. If you are traveling abroad, it is helpful to prepare a copy in English or the language of the country you are visiting.
Insurance: When traveling abroad, check if your health insurance covers chronic illnesses.

Air travel

Always carry your inhalers and spacer in your hand luggage . Luggage may get lost or arrive late.
Carrying your medications in their original packaging will make security checks easier.
If you use a nebulizer, check with your airline in advance about its use on board. In most cases, a spacer inhaler is a more practical option on an airplane.
The cabin air is dry; drink water throughout the journey.

Accomodation

Choose non-smoking rooms and specify this when booking.
If you have dust mite or pet allergies, consider avoiding pet-friendly rooms and carpeted rooms.
Bringing your own pillowcase can be a simple but effective measure.
If you notice a damp or musty smell in the room, request a room change.

Get to know the place you're going to.

Climate: Extremely cold, hot and humid, or very dry climates can affect symptoms.
Pollen season: Research which pollens are most prevalent in the area you're visiting during that time.
Air pollution: Monitor air quality in major cities.
Altitude: At very high altitudes, the air is cold and dry; consult your doctor before mountain travel.
Emergency numbers and hospitals: In most European countries, the emergency number is 112; it may be different in other countries. Find out in advance which hospital is closest to where you are staying.

Camping and nature trips

Campfire smoke, flowering meadows, and cool nights can all be triggers. Position yourself according to the direction from which the smoke is coming, bring warm clothing, and carry your inhaler within easy reach. Make sure the group leader is aware of your asthma and your action plan.

Medicine storage

Do not leave inhalers in extreme heat (e.g., in a car in the sun) or freezing cold. Follow the storage instructions on the product packaging. Warm a cold spray inhaler in your hand before use.

Maintain your routine.

Vacation is the easiest time to forget your medication. Take your preventative medication regularly every day, even if the time zone changes. Set a reminder on your phone for the new time zone.

This text is for informational purposes only. Consult your doctor regarding your treatment and medication dosage before long journeys.