Traveling this holiday season? If you have allergies or asthma, you may be wondering how to manage your symptoms while flying, driving, and staying with relatives.

Jonathan Olsen, DO, an allergist at University of Utah Health, shares these tips for managing your asthma and allergy symptoms, no matter where you are.

1. Don’t put medications in your checked luggage. Always keep them in your carry-on—especially your epinephrine autoinjector.
2. Don’t leave home without these important items:
   1. A copy of your asthma or anaphylaxis action plan
   2. A list of allergies
   3. Emergency contacts and allergist’s phone numbers

   4. Contact information in the event of an emergency in the area you are staying

      If you are going somewhere foreign, make sure to have copies translated into the local language. Consider taking a medical alert system, too.

3. Pack safe snacks. Your host may not be familiar with your family’s food allergies. Also, avoid eating foods with no ingredient labels during travel or at the airport.
4. Bring your own pillow or protective pillow cover. Regardless of where you’re staying, there may be hidden allergens such as mold, dust mites, or pet dander. If the place you’re staying at has a pet you’re allergic to, take extra precautions such as taking allergy medication beforehand, washing clothes thoroughly after visiting, or asking your host to vacuum their house or clean their pet before you arrive.
5. Bundle up. Cold, dry air can be a trigger for asthma. So, if your holiday destination is low on the thermostat, don’t forget to cover your mouth and nose with a scarf while outside.
6. Indulge carefully. Let your host know ahead of time about your family’s food allergies. But also remember that it’s easy for allergens to accidentally end up in food prepared by someone else. When in doubt, bring your own dishes you know are safe.
7. Take it easy. It’s easier said than done, but stress can make asthma symptoms worse—and nobody wants to deal with an asthma attack during the holidays. When things get hectic, try your best to slow down, clear your head, and take a deep breath.

If you have any questions or concerns, visit your health care provider or allergist before traveling.

Having asthma and allergies doesn’t mean you have to miss out on holidays away from home. Have fun and stay safe!