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The contents of this website are not intended to be medical advice.
Please see your healthcare
professional
with any specific questions about your condition and / or treatment.
Life takes us to many places, through trips with school, university or work, or holidaying with friends and family. Travel can be uplifting, seeing new places and cultures broadens our horizons. Whilst time away from our regular routine allows rest and recuperation, it can pose a challenge for those with atopic dermatitis, requiring careful planning to manage potential triggers and minimise flare-ups. Here are some tips to help you prepare and manage your condition while on the road:
Bring your regular moisturisers and emollients in travel-sized containers. Ensure you have enough to last the entire trip, as familiar products may not be available at your destination. Pack gentle, fragrance-free soaps and shampoos that you know work well with your skin. If traveling by air, consider using travel-sized bottles to comply with liquid restrictions in carry-on luggage.
When traveling overseas with medication, always check for any restrictions with the embassy before you go. This includes regulations on what medicines can be taken out of the UK, what can be brought into the countries you’ll be visiting, and even any countries you'll be traveling through. Restrictions may also apply to the type and/or quantity of medicine allowed. For prescription medicines, always take a copy of your prescription, and check if it will be accepted in English or if it may need to be translated into the local language for your destination before you travel. Carry enough medication to last throughout the trip, and keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid losing it in checked baggage. If you will be traveling with liquid medicine over 100ml, contact your airline and all airports you will travel through. Exemptions can be made, but you will need documentation from a healthcare professional supporting your need to carry the liquid medication.
Research the climate of your destination. If traveling to a dry or cold environment, be prepared to moisturise more frequently. For humid or hot climates, bring breathable clothing and plan for cooling methods.
If you’re sensitive to allergens like pollen or dust, consider bringing a portable air purifier for your hotel room. You might also want to pack allergy medications if pollen counts are high. Bring a broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin. Make sure it’s free of fragrances and other potential irritants. A hat and UV-protective clothing can provide additional protection.
Pack clothing made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid wool or synthetic materials that can irritate your skin. Prepare for changing temperatures by bringing layers that can be added or removed easily. This helps manage your body temperature and reduces the risk of sweating.
Airplane cabins are often dry, which can exacerbate skin dryness. Drink plenty of water and apply moisturiser before, during, and after the flight to keep your skin hydrated. Be sure to wear loose, comfortable clothing during flights to avoid irritation and overheating.
Dependent on where you are going, it may be possible to book a hypoallergenic hotel room, which have features such as air purifiers, dust mite covers, and fragrance-free amenities.
These are far from available everywhere though, so you may wish to consider bringing a pillowcase or sheet from home if you're concerned about potential irritants in hotel linens.
If certain foods trigger your atopic dermatitis, research restaurants and food options at your destination, and consider bringing snacks or foods that you know are safe to eat. If you do not speak the local language, write down any food sensitivities or allergies in the local language before you go (using the internet for a translation), and show the card to restaurant staff, to avoid any translation misunderstandings!
Keeping your skin hydrated from the inside out is important, especially when traveling. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly throughout the day.
Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical needs, including treatment for atopic dermatitis flare-ups, just in case.
Water quality varies by location and can sometimes irritate sensitive skin. Consider using bottled water for washing your face or bathing if the local water seems harsh.
Your atopic dermatitis is a part of your life, and a part of your holidays and travels. By preparing in advance and following the tips above, you can travel with feeling of confidence and preparedness, allowing you to focus on the experience once away from home.