Traveling is stressful enough as it is. There are so many things that could go wrong: losing your luggage, missing connecting flights, getting lost. Imagine the stress associated with travel when you have asthma or if your kids have asthma! Not only do you have to worry about your luggage, but you also stress out about the carpet in your hotel room or the possible allergens in the botanical park.
There are too many unknown factors. It’s scary! But don’t let this stop you from experiencing the adventures of a lifetime.
The key is to plan ahead. Being prepared can make the difference between a smooth vacation and a stressful and even harmful journey.
Check-in with your doctor
Before pressing the “check-in” button on your Facebook timeline, the very first place you should check-in is your doctor’s clinic. This is especially important when you are going away for more than a week. You have to make sure that your asthma action plan is updated. Plus, ask your doctor to write a document that includes your medical history, including your current asthma condition, medication, and the treatments you may need in the event of a severe asthma attack. Be sure that you have everything ready, preparedness counts before starting a trip.
Travel light and prepare an Asthma Travel Pack (ATP)
Besides a copy of your Asthma Action Plan, your ATP should include:
- Quick-relief medications
- Controller medications – mare sure to bring extra because your medication might not be available where you’re going
- An extra written prescription
- Contact information of your insurance provider and your spouse/partner
You can also store your prescription and all the contact information digitally in your email or apps like Evernote.
Map out your itinerary
Preparedness doesn’t end with the medications. Take the time to map out your itinerary depending on what triggers your asthma. It doesn’t sound exciting or adventurous, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Remember that different destinations have different climates. What are the possible allergens that may trigger asthma symptoms or allergic reactions? Does your hotel provide hypoallergenic bedding? What are the activities that you can or can’t do? Considering these factors allow you to create a customized itinerary that’s conducive to your condition.
Keep calm and just breathe
You’ve got everything covered. Visit the doctor. Check. Asthma Travel Pack. Check. Almost allergen-free itinerary. Check.
You did everything you possibly can to have a stress-free trip. Go take a deep breath and embrace the possibilities of your adventure. With proper planning, you can have a great, stress-free vacation.
