Tips on travelling with kids who have asthma

Travelling with kids who have asthma can still be enjoyable if you take a few precautions.

Whether you are heading off to the beach, the countryside or even overseas, good preparation can help keep your child’s asthma at bay while you’re away.
 

Tips on travelling with kids who have asthma

Check out these useful tips on what to do when travelling with kids who suffer from asthma.

1. Make sure your kids asthma is going as well as possible before you leave.

2. Ensure your kids see a doctor for an asthma check-up. They don't need to be sick to have an asthma review.

3. Tell your doctor your destination in case there are any particular precautions needed.

4. Ask your doctor for a letter outlining the history and severity of your kids asthma and their treatment, and ask them to list the medications your kids are taking and why. This could be useful if they become unwell while you’re away and also to show International Customs.

5. Check that any medical insurance you take out will specifically cover your kids asthma (contact your travel agent for advice).

6. If your kids normally use a nebuliser, check that there will be suitable power outlets where you are going and take a power adapter if necessary. Or ask your doctor about making the switch to a simpler puffer and spacer device instead whilst you’re away.

7. If your kids do take a nebuliser, ensure that it can be used on the plane. Discuss this with the airline well in advance as they may wish to inspect the unit prior to departure.

8. Anticipate, where you can, any increased exposure to allergens, for example to pollens or indoor pets whilst your away and prepare for them as effectively as you can.

9. Remember to take your kids written asthma action plan with you, medical insurance details and letter from your doctor.

10. Where possible, take with you all the medication your kids will require, as well as some extra.

11. Carry their medication in your hand luggage and spare supplies in your suitcase.

12. Travel to high altitudes is normally okay as long as your kids asthma is well managed at sea level.

13. If they are old enough, trekking, sightseeing or skiing should be problem-free when they have well-controlled asthma, a written asthma action plan and adequate amounts of medication. 

Source: The Asthma Foundation’s Sensitive Choice® programme - helping you identify asthma and allergy-aware products.
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