Knowing how to inform travel companions, travel providers, and places you visit is crucial to managing your allergies on vacation. Strategies such as carrying allergy translation cards and planning ahead can help give you peace of mind.

Going on vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. However, if you have allergies, it can cause extra stress.

Knowing how to communicate your needs effectively can help you feel more confident and ensure your safety on your trip.

Preparation is key to managing allergies on vacation. It can also help you feel more confident and relaxed during your stay.

Research your destination

Before you travel, research your destination to identify any potential allergy triggers.

This can include local cuisine, plants, and environmental factors. Knowing what to expect can help you take necessary precautions.

Before you go:

  • Identify allergy-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and grocery stores.
  • Locate nearby medical facilities and pharmacies at your destination.
  • Make use of allergy apps and other digital tools.
  • Obtain travel insurance covering preexisting conditions, emergency care, and evacuation.

Note: Your travel destination may have different foods and labeling laws than your home country.

Plan your communication strategies

  • Use allergy translation cards, or “chef cards,” in local languages.
  • Learn essential phrases and allergy terminology, or have them written down where you can easily access them.
  • Make use of translation apps to help you know what to say.
  • Wear allergy identification jewelry.

Pack allergy essentials

Ensure you pack allergy medication and other useful items, such as:

  • antihistamines
  • epinephrine auto-injectors
  • inhalers
  • wipes for surfaces and skin
  • first aid supplies for mild reactions

Store these items in carry-on bags so you have them easily to hand.

Bring medical documentation

Carry a medical document that outlines your allergies, medications, and emergency contact information. This can be vital in case of an emergency.

You may also keep in this document:

  • a written emergency action plan
  • a medical ID
  • a doctor’s letter

There are factors you’ll want to consider in your accommodation and method of travel.

Airlines and transportation

When booking flights or other transportation, ensure to inform the provider about your allergies before you go.

Many airlines can accommodate passengers with food allergies by offering special meals or allowing you to bring your own food.

  • Example: “I have a severe peanut allergy. Can you confirm if the flight will be peanut-free, or should I bring my own meal?”

People often believe nut allergens can travel through aircraft ventilation systems. However, some research suggests this is not the case. According to a 2024 review, allergic reactions are actually less common during flights than “on the ground,” and this is likely due to the extra precautions you take while traveling.

The main risk of contact with allergens is from the seating area, including the tray and seat-back entertainment system. Though airlines clean between flights, it’s a good idea to also wipe this area down yourself.

Hotels and accommodations

Contact your hotel or accommodation in advance to discuss your allergies. Ask about their policies on allergens and request allergy-friendly rooms or accommodations.

  • Example: “I have a dust mite allergy. Do you have hypoallergenic rooms available, or are you able to provide allergy-proof bedding or covers?”

Many places have likely had these questions before, so don’t feel worried about asking.

It’s a good idea to research and choose restaurants in advance. You can even use apps to help you find allergy-friendly places to eat.

Informing restaurants

When dining out, communicate your allergies clearly to the restaurant staff. Explain the severity of your allergies and ask about the ingredients used in their dishes.

  • Example: “I have a severe shellfish allergy. Can you ensure my meal is prepared without any contact with shellfish?”

Other tips include:

  • Avoid buffets, where there may be a higher risk of cross-contamination.
  • Learn about the culture you are visiting, particularly if it is very different from your own. Declining food in some cultures may be seen as offensive, so it’s important to stress that it’s a medical reason rather than just a preference.

Using allergy cards

Consider carrying allergy cards that clearly state your allergies in the local language. These cards can be handed to restaurant staff to ensure clear communication.

Outdoor activities

If you plan to take part in outdoor activities, such as hiking or visiting parks, be aware of potential environmental allergens. You can inform your guide or activity leader about your allergies.

  • Example: “I have a pollen allergy. Are there any areas with high pollen at this time of year that we should avoid?”

Tours and excursions

When booking tours or excursions, inform the tour operator about your allergies. Ask about any potential allergens you might encounter and what accommodations can be made.

  • Example: “I am allergic to bee stings. Are there any precautions we can take during the tour to minimize the risk of exposure?”

Steps you can take to ensure your readiness in case of an emergency include:

Knowing the local emergency services

Familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and how to contact them in case of an allergic reaction.

Additionally, take the time to find out where your nearest hospital is.

Informing travel companions

Make sure your travel companions are aware of your allergies and know how to assist you in case of an emergency. If necessary, show them how to use your epinephrine auto-injector.

  • Example: “I have a severe nut allergy. If I have a reaction, please use my epinephrine auto-injector and call emergency services immediately.”

Managing emergency situations

Make sure those you are traveling with can recognize symptoms of mild and severe (anaphylactic) reactions.

Ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency, step by step.

For example:

  1. Use the epinephrine auto-injector.
  2. Get immediate medical care.
  3. Show medical documentation.

Next steps:

  • Create some cards with key phrases related to your allergies in your language and the language of the place you’re going to.
  • Get in touch with your travel operator and accommodations to inform them of your allergies and find out their allergy policies.
  • Speak with your travel companions about how they may be able to assist you, and show them how to use your auto-injector if necessary.
  • Listen to Allie explain how she uses her food allergy toolkit.

Effective communication about your allergies while on vacation is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. By preparing in advance and speaking with the right people, you can help minimize your risk of allergic reactions and ensure a pleasant trip.

No matter the severity of your allergy, speaking with your fellow travel companions will keep them in the know and allow them to help you if necessary.

With strategies such as carrying allergy cards and discussing allergy policies ahead of time, you can focus on enjoying your vacation with peace of mind, without allergies limiting your adventures.