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When you have nasal allergies and need to travel, your allergies may travel with you. With planning and preparation, you can help keep nasal allergy symptoms under control during your trip.

Starting out

To begin, a few simple suggestions:

• Check the pollen & weather forecast (continental US only) for the area you'll be visiting.
• Pack a bag with an adequate supply of your nasal allergy medications.
• Pack dust-proof covers for pillows, or consider bringing your pillows along.

In the Car

If you are bothered by nasal allergies, here are some suggestions for limiting your allergen exposure while you're on the road:

• While traveling in the car, use the air conditioner or heater and set the system to "recirculate." Travel with the windows closed to avoid allergens from outside.
• Travel in the early morning or late evening to avoid times when air quality is the poorest.

On Planes

Planes can contain allergens including dust mites, mold, and pollen in carpeting, upholstery and the ventilation system, and there are some additional considerations for people with nasal allergies. Here are some suggestions for air travel:

• Be sure to pack your nasal allergy medication in your carry-on bag and not in your checked luggage. That way you'll have it if you need it on the plane, or in case your packed luggage is lost.
• Keep a drink or lozenges with you, or chew gum in flight, and be sure to swallow regularly. These steps can help relieve pressure in the nasal passages.

When You Arrive

Once you've reached your destination, be aware of potential nasal allergy triggers at your new location. Consider these suggestions:

Hotels—Dust mites, molds, and other allergens can be found in hotel carpeting, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. Before you check in:

• Ask if the hotel offers 'hypoallergenic' or 'allergy-friendly' rooms. These are becoming more common. If mold is one of your triggers, you may also want a room that is located in a dry, sunny area away from the pool.
• Check with the hotel if they can change the filter in the air conditioning or heating system. If you're allergic to pollen, use the air conditioning instead of opening windows.
• If the hotel allows pets, ask for pet-free room.
• Find out if the hotel offers synthetic pillows, or bring dust-proof covers for pillows.
• Avoid unpacking into hotel closets and drawers, as they may contain mold spores.

Visiting family and friends—When staying with relatives or friends, discuss your nasal allergy concerns and needs before the visit and plan around any potential issues. Consider all of the potential indoor allergens just as you would at home or in a hotel.

Outdoors—If you are sensitive to outdoor allergens, take all the steps you would at home:

• Before you go touring outside, check the pollen level. If it's high, consider adjusting your schedule for an indoor activity that day, and the outdoor activities another day. Also keep in mind that the seasonal allergens in different regions may peak at different times.
• Avoid spending time in parks, wooded areas or gardens.
• Take a shower and wash your hair after spending time outside. Pollen from the air can collect on your clothes, skin, and hair.
• After you've been outside for most of the day, leave your outerwear at the door, and change your clothes, but not in the bedroom.