Travelling with Asthma

Travelling with asthma doesn’t mean giving up on adventure - it simply means you’ll need a bit more planning and awareness. Whether you’re heading abroad for a beach holiday, a city break, or a long-haul trip, understanding how to manage your condition in unfamiliar environments can make all the difference. With the right preparation and mindset, you can stay safe while fully enjoying your holiday.

Preparing Before You Travel

Preparation is the key to a safe and trouble-free trip if you have asthma. Start by scheduling a visit with your GP or asthma nurse. This is especially important if your symptoms haven’t been stable or if you haven’t had a recent review. Your healthcare provider can assess your current condition, adjust medications if necessary, and provide a written asthma action plan tailored for travel.

Your asthma action plan should be personalised to you and give advice on how to track your symptoms and what to do if your symptoms worsen, as well as action to take in an emergency (and how to recognise one). If your action plan includes a course of steroid tablets to take, ensure you have a supply to take with you.

Travel insurance is another essential step, even if you’re travelling to an area covered by the GHIC (previously EHIC). Make sure your policy is with a specialist provider such as Medical Travel Compared, so it covers pre-existing conditions, including asthma. This will give you peace of mind, because without the right coverage, medical treatment abroad can be extremely expensive.

You and Your Asthma Medication

There’s a good chance you’ll have two different types of inhaler – a ‘reliever’ to take if you’re breathless or wheezy and a ‘preventer’ which you take regularly to avoid getting symptoms. It’s crucial to have your asthma as well-controlled as possible before you leave, so do make sure you take your preventer as prescribed.

Make sure you have enough medication for the entire duration of your trip - and at least a week or two extra. Delays, lost luggage, or extended stays can happen unexpectedly. Pack your inhalers, tablets, or any other prescribed treatments in your hand luggage rather than checked baggage. This ensures you’ll always have access to them, even if your suitcase goes missing.

READ MORE: Travelling with Medication

It’s also wise to carry a copy of your prescriptions: it can be helpful at airport security or if you need medical assistance abroad. You may also need a doctor’s letter explaining your condition and medications – remember that your GP practice will charge for this as it isn’t an NHS service. If you use a nebuliser, check airline policies in advance to avoid issues.

Understanding Your Destination

Different environments can affect asthma in different ways. Before travelling, research your destination carefully. Climate, air quality, pollen levels, and altitude can all influence your symptoms.

You may find your asthma is triggered by hot or humid climates, or by cold, dry air. You may find your symptoms are triggered by exercise or by exposure to dust. Take these factors into account when choosing your destination.

READ MORE: Which Conditions Get Worse in the Cold?

If, like many people with asthma, your breathing is worse in areas of high pollution, you’ll need to take this into account too when researching your destination. For instance, you might want to avoid cities with the highest pollution levels or be prepared to take extra precautions like avoiding outdoor activities during peak traffic hours.

Pollen and allergens vary by region and season. Warm, dry or windy days (especially in the early morning and evening) tend to have the highest pollen levels. In the UK, pollen levels tend to be highest from mid-May to July, driven by the peak grass pollen season. However, this may be very different at your destination. If you have allergic asthma, check local pollen forecasts and plan accordingly. Coastal destinations may have fewer pollen triggers, but can still present issues like mould or salt air irritation for some individuals.

READ MORE: Which Conditions Get Worse in Hot Weather?

Altitude is another factor to consider. High-altitude destinations can lead to thinner air, which may worsen breathing difficulties. If you’re planning activities like hiking in mountainous areas, discuss this with your doctor beforehand.

Packing Smart for Asthma

Packing strategically can help you stay prepared for any situation. In addition to your regular medications, consider bringing:

• A spare reliever inhaler (in case one is lost or runs out)
• A peak flow meter to monitor your lung function
• Antihistamines if allergies (including hay fever) trigger your asthma
• A face covering or scarf to protect against cold air or pollution
• Sanitising wipes to reduce exposure to dust and allergens in accommodation

Keep your medication easily accessible at all times, not buried at the bottom of a bag. During flights, place it in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of you.

While You’re Travelling

It’s really important to bear in mind that oxygen isn’t distributed to your body from your lungs as efficiently at high altitudes as it is at ground level. In fact, this ‘partial pressure’ of oxygen can be ¼ - ⅓ lower.  That means if you’re already vulnerable to shortness of breath, flying can make your breathing worse. That’s one reason why it’s so important to keep your reliever inhaler to hand and take it if you need it.

What’s more, cabin air is often dry, which may irritate the airways. And long journeys can also expose you to dust. If you’re in a car or bus, keep the windows closed if you’re in a high-pollution or high-pollen area.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration. If you’re prone to symptoms during flights, use your inhaler before boarding if recommended by your doctor or asthma nurse.

READ MORE: Top Tips for Staying Hydrated on Holiday

Avoiding Triggers Abroad

Being in a new environment often means encountering unfamiliar triggers. The key is awareness and proactive management.

Accommodation is a key factor. When you arrive at your hotel or rental, check for potential triggers such as dust, mould, or strong cleaning products. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to request a different room.

If pollution is a concern, try to:

• Avoid busy roads during peak times
• Use air quality apps to plan outdoor activities
• Spend more time indoors when pollution levels are high

If allergens are your main trigger:

• Keep windows closed during high pollen periods
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
• Avoid areas with heavy vegetation if pollen counts are high

Food allergies can also play a role in asthma for some people. Learn key phrases in the local language to communicate your dietary needs and always check ingredients carefully.

Exercise is another potential trigger, especially in extreme temperatures. If you plan to be active—whether swimming, hiking, or sightseeing—pace yourself and use your reliever inhaler before activity if advised.

Recognising and Responding to Symptoms

Even with careful planning, symptoms can still occur. Recognising early warning signs is crucial. These may include:

• Increased shortness of breath
• Wheezing or coughing
• Tightness in the chest
• Reduced peak flow readings

If symptoms begin to worsen, follow your asthma action plan. Use your reliever inhaler as prescribed and monitor your response. It’s important not to ignore symptoms or hope they’ll pass on their own.

If your inhaler doesn’t provide relief or symptoms escalate, seek medical attention immediately. Know the local emergency number at your destination and locate nearby medical facilities in advance. Many countries have pharmacies where you can get advice or emergency medication, but availability may vary.

Handling Emergencies Abroad

In the event of a severe asthma attack, quick action is essential. Stay calm and follow your action plan. Use your reliever inhaler and seek urgent medical help if there is no improvement.

Having a travel companion who understands your condition can be incredibly helpful. Make sure they know where your medication is stored and what to do in an emergency.

Language barriers can complicate medical situations, so consider carrying a medical alert card or using a translation app. Some travellers also wear medical ID bracelets that clearly state their condition.

READ MORE: How to Find Medical Care Abroad

Maintaining Your Routine

Holidays often disrupt daily routines, but consistency is important for asthma management. Continue taking your preventer medication as prescribed, even if you feel well. Skipping doses can increase the risk of flare-ups.

Try to maintain regular sleep patterns and stay hydrated. Fatigue and dehydration can make symptoms worse. Eating a balanced diet and managing stress can also contribute to better overall control.

Final Thoughts

With a bit of careful planning, there’s absolutely no reason you can’t enjoy a restful/relaxing/exciting/inspiring holiday – the choice is yours. Do get yourself checked before you leave, and make sure you have specialist travel insurance that fits your needs. Do be aware of your triggers and take steps to avoid them as much as possible – and do make sure you take your regular medication as prescribed and keep your reliever medication to hand.

Plan activities that suit your comfort level, but don’t be afraid to try new things. Whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, relaxing on a beach, or enjoying local cuisine, you can participate fully with the right precautions in place. Remember – millions of people with asthma travel safely every year and come back with only happy memories.

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