Packing With Your Health In Mind

Smart packing starts with keeping your health at the forefront. Whether you are preparing for a spring break getaway, a long summer vacation, or holiday travel, making sure you and your family are ready for all your health needs will help you fully enjoy your trip. Below are some useful tips to consider based on your family’s specific health needs.

Asthma

With thoughtful preparation, traveling with asthma can be easy and stress-free. It can be helpful to look ahead at your destination's air quality, altitude, and pollen levels so you can be prepared. For locations where pollen and other common asthma triggers are heavily present, disinfecting wipes or a mask can help keep you protected.

If flying, keep all essential items like an inhaler, controller medications, or a peak flow meter in your carry-on and accessible at all times. If you or your child has developed an asthma action plan with a provider, keeping a copy of that on hand can be helpful.

Breastfeeding

Traveling while breastfeeding or with formula can feel intimidating. Regardless of transportation mode, it is best to pack with comfort, convenience, and access. Pack extra formula, bottles, nipples, safe water options, and ice packs. Travel days can be hectic. If nursing, it is also important to wear clothing that allows for easy feedings and to bring a water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and keep up milk supply.

When it comes to airport specific travel, it is helpful to understand your rights. Many airports offer private lactation rooms, although you are allowed to breastfeed anywhere you are authorized to be. Breast milk is a medically necessary liquid that is allowed through security. Supplies used to keep breastmilk chilled are also permitted. Notifying your TSA agent in advance allows for the smoothest experience. You do not need to be traveling with your baby for these regulations to apply.

Diabetes

When traveling with diabetes, it is helpful to maintain your routine as much as possible. Of course, changes in meals, time zones, and activity may affect blood sugar, so be sure to check your levels more frequently than usual. It is crucial to store insulin, snacks, and other necessary supplies in easy-to-access locations. If flying, always store these items in a carry-on. All diabetic supplies are permitted through security. Notifying your TSA agent in advance can make the process easier.

In the case of an emergency, it is best to be prepared with a bracelet or card indicating you have diabetes and a written prescription list of medications and dosages.

Sleep Apnea

Traveling with sleep apnea may be easier than you think. If you rely on a CPAP device, keep it on you at all times. CPAP machines and their essential accessories are permitted through airport security. If traveling to a destination with different electrical outlets, make sure to pack the correct adapters. If you travel often, smaller and more portable CPAP machines are also available.

Enjoy the world

Taking an adventure solo or vacationing with family and friends are some of life’s greatest joys. The healthcare needs of you and your loved ones don’t have to hold you back. Prepare and plan so you can get out there and enjoy more of the life you were made to live.