Travelling With An Allergy: Check My Wellbeing

Planning a getaway? Whether you’re escaping to the sunshine or heading for a city break, taking care of your health and wellbeing before you go is key to making the most of your time away. At Check My Wellbeing, we support people with allergies, intolerances and overall health goals, and holidays are no exception. Here’s your go-to checklist to help you feel prepared, relaxed, and ready to enjoy every moment, even if you’re travelling with an allergy.

1. Don’t Forget Your Wallet or Purse

It might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most common items people forget! Make sure you’ve packed your wallet or purse, including ID and bank cards. We also recommend setting up mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Wallet on your phone, just in case. Getting caught without access to money can turn a great trip into a stressful experience.

2. Pack Your Pre-Travel Essentials

Keep your travel documents, insurance details, passport, and any necessary medications in one easy-to-access place, such as a small folder or pouch. If you have any known allergies or conditions, it’s wise to carry relevant medical information too. This can be helpful if you ever need to consult a pharmacist or doctor abroad. Preparation really is peace of mind.

3. Toiletries: Keep It Simple

It’s easy to go overboard when packing your toiletries, but most destinations will stock the basics. Focus on essentials, you know your body responds well to, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. A sudden change in shampoo or skincare can trigger a reaction, so stick to trusted brands whenever possible. Don’t forget sun cream and after sun, two must-haves for any sunny destination!

4. Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

Sunburn isn’t just uncomfortable. It can have long-term consequences for your skin and health. Always pack a broad-spectrum SPF, and reapply regularly. If you do get caught out, soothing after sun (especially with Aloe Vera) can help calm your skin. Skin sensitivity is often linked to allergic reactions, too, so knowing what your skin reacts to can help you stay comfortable while you travel.

Not sure what’s causing flare-ups or skin irritation? Our wellbeing tests can help identify common allergens before you go. So don’t worry about travelling with an allergy, let us help you.

5. Know What’s Provided at Your Accommodation

If you’re short on luggage space, check what’s already available at your hotel or apartment, like towels or hairdryers. This can save space in your suitcase and help you pack smarter. If in doubt, bring a lightweight microfibre towel just in case.

6. Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time

Overpacking is easy to do, especially with summer clothes! Try planning an outfit for each day and evening, plus extras like swimwear, pyjamas, shoes, and underwear. Packing cubes are brilliant for staying organised and reducing suitcase stress.

7. Don’t Forget Travel Adaptors

Different countries use different types of plug sockets, so be sure to bring a travel adapter. We also recommend packing a slight extension lead, especially if your room has only one or two sockets, but you’re travelling with multiple devices.

8. Bring What Helps You Relax

Holidays are for switching off, so take something that helps you unwind. Whether it’s a book, tablet, journal, or a game, downtime is an excellent opportunity to recharge both mentally and physically. After all, wellbeing isn’t just about the body, it’s about the mind too.

Bonus Tip: Take Control of Your Health Before You Travel

If you’ve experienced unexpected symptoms while away in the past, like digestive discomfort, skin reactions or fatigue, it might be time to consider an allergy or wellbeing test before your next trip. Our at-home tests can help you identify potential triggers in your diet or environment, so you can plan ahead and feel your best while you’re away.