Travelling with Asthma

If you or someone in your family has asthma and is going away on vacation, it is important to create a checklist to ensure that you have everything necessary to manage symptoms and stay healthy while you're away! Here are some things to consider packing:

What Should You Pack? 

Inhaler(s): It is always a good idea to bring multiple inhalers with you on your trip. Having a backup in case of an emergency and ensuring that there is enough medication in each inhaler is very important. Be sure to double check this before leaving!  

Chamber: Using a chamber with your inhaler is an important part of ensuring you receive the most out of your inhaled medication^1,2. There are compact and portable options such as the AeroChamber2go* chamber, which can help make bringing your medication on-the-go a breeze!

Other medications: If you or someone in your family has been prescribed additional medications or devices, be sure to remember these while packing. If you also have allergies, don't forget to bring allergy medication to help reduce the possibility of an allergy related asthma flare-up.

Before Leaving 

Doctor's contact information: Make sure to identify and confirm your doctor's contact information, in case you need to contact them for any reason while you're away. 

Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers asthma-related medical expenses, in case of an emergency.

Communicate with your travel companions: Let others in your group know about your asthma and what they can do to help if needed, while you're away. 

Other Considerations

Weather updates: Weather can have a very large impact on asthma flare-ups. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can exacerbate pre-existing asthma symptoms.³ Before you leave, make sure to check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. 

Avoid triggers: Try to avoid triggers that can worsen your asthma symptoms. For example, if you know that hot and humid weather can cause exacerbations, book your vacation in a location with a cooler climate.  

Research your destination: In addition to checking the weather forecast for your destination, it may be beneficial to complete as much research as possible. If you're travelling to a place with high pollen counts, consider bringing extra allergy medication. If you're travelling to a place with poor air quality, consider wearing a mask or bringing an air purifier.

Check the local healthcare system: Research the healthcare system at your destination and make sure you know where to go if you need medical attention. Consider bringing a copy of your medical history and a letter from your doctor outlining your asthma treatment plan.

Take breaks: Travelling can be tiring, so make sure to take breaks when you need them. Don't push yourself too hard and remember that it's okay to take things at your own pace.

Travelling with asthma can be challenging, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can enjoy your vacation and keep asthma symptoms under control. Remember to take care of yourself and/or family members, communicate with your travel companions, and have fun!

Sources:

1. Suggett J et al. Eur Resp J. 2019 54: PA4229. 

2. TMI data on file.

3. https://www.webmd.com/asthma/ss/slideshow-asthma-weather#:~:text=When%2…