16 Dec 2022 |

Tips for travelling with a respiratory condition

Tips for travelling with a respiratory condition


It is almost that time of year!
Are you planning to travel for this Christmas break?
Whether you are planning a trip interstate or overseas, a few pre-travel steps will ensure you can best manage your asthma and COPD while you are away.

  • Ask your doctor to review your current prescribed medications.
  • Pack your Asthma/COPD Action Plan and know how to follow it.
  • Speak to your GP and ask for extra prescriptions.
  • Pack a little more of your asthma medication than you think you’ll need, just in case and don’t forget to pack your spacer!
  • Ensure you have enough (or extra) medications & right devices before you travel.
  • Know your asthma first aid (4x4x4).
  • Don’t rely on being able to purchase medication overseas. A foreign prescription may not be valid, or your particular medication may not be available.
  • Always keep a supply of your asthma medication with you in your carry-on bag, in case your suitcase is lost or damaged, or you require it mid-travel.
  • Take copies of your asthma prescriptions with you to prove the medicine is for your own personal use.
  • Make sure your flu and COVID vaccinations are up to date.
  • Consider wearing a mask in planes airports and highly populated areas.
  • Use hand hygiene and social distancing.

And remember

  • Weather changes can bring on asthma symptoms, especially when the air is cold and dry.
  • Be aware that different countries and cities have different allergens and levels of pollution in the air, which may trigger asthma symptoms or an allergic reaction.
  • Make sure your travel companions know about your asthma and how to help when you are unwell or need asthma first aid (4 x 4 x 4)
  • Trekking, sightseeing, swimming, skiing, and other holiday activities should be possible if you have well-controlled asthma, a written asthma action plan and an adequate supply of asthma medication. If you are concerned speak to your doctor about the activities, you have planned before you travel.

Hopefully that has been a good reminder of how to prepare for your Christmas break (or any break really). Travel safe and if you are unsure, you can always speak to a respiratory educator at AFNT who can assist you, so you know how to be prepared these holidays.

AFNT acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we meet and conduct our services, respecting language and culture and elders past and present.

© Asthma Foundation NT 2019

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