Travelling with allergies: What should I take? 

You’ve booked your flights, you’ve got insurance and you’ve planned your itinerary. But what about managing your allergies safely away from home? 

Travelling with allergies presents a few more challenges than for the average traveller, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing time. 

Before you head off, make sure you’ve got everything you need to ensure a safe and pleasant trip. 

Medication – If you or your child has been prescribed adrenaline, make sure that it is in date. For ease, all adrenaline auto-injector (AAI) brands have a free expiry alert service which can remind you. If you are travelling somewhere that’s very remote, talk your GP about whether you need to travel with more than your usual two AAIs.

AAI storage – Bags are available to maintain medication at the correct temperature. Please refer to the patient information leaflet accompanying your AAI for storage instructions. 

Travel certificates – You may be asked for documentation when flying with your devices. AAI manufacturers have Travel Certificates available on their websites: 

– www.emerade-bausch.co.uk (Emerade has been recalled and is not currently available. Read more) 
– www.epipen.co.uk 
– www.jext.co.uk 

Allergy Action Plan – If you or your child is at risk of anaphylaxis, ensure that you take an Allergy Action Plan with you so that you and those around you know what to do in an emergency. You can download a template here. 

Emergency contacts – Take a list of emergency contacts with you. Include details of the nearest hospital to where you are staying and how to contact emergency services. 

Medical ID – Remember to fill in your medical ID on your mobile phone, which can usually be found on the lock screen on the emergency call screen. Here you can include information about allergies, medication and emergency contacts.  

Translation cards – Create translation cards which can be read out or shown to make staff aware of your allergies. This may include translations of your allergens and how to ask for allergy information. 

For more guidance on travelling with allergies, visit our Travel Guide.