7 Tips for managing asthma during travel  

Overview

If you have asthma, you may wonder, “Can I still enjoy my trip without flare-ups?” The short answer is yes, although travel brings a few extra challenges. Climate changes, air quality, flights, unfamiliar accommodation, or simply forgetting medications can all disrupt your normal routine. With the right preparation, you can travel confidently and enjoy your trip safely and comfortably.

Travel Tips for Asthma

Tip 1. Visit your GP before you travel

Before travelling, it’s a good idea to visit your GP or an online doctor to evaluate your current asthma control. You can request your GP to refresh your asthma action plan, review your medications, and ensure you have medical certificates or prescription repeats ready. As recommended by the National Asthma Council Australia¹, ensure your asthma is “under good control before you leave” and discuss your destination and planned activities with your doctor.

If you’re using a telehealth service such as Hola Health, you can book a telehealth consultation from anywhere in Australia to get these preparations in place.

Tip 2. Pack smart—don’t forget your medications

Your medications are a must—don’t leave without them. Here is a simple checklist:

• Reliever inhaler (for emergencies)

• Preventer inhaler (if you use one)

• Spacer device (in case you use one)

• Peak flow meter (if you use one)

• A copy of your asthma action plan and any doctor’s letter (especially for flying or overseas)

Carry your medications in hand luggage rather than checked luggage, so they’re easily accessible during your trip. According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration² (TGA), travellers must keep medicines in their original packaging and carry a doctor’s certificate if required. Also, check airline rules: inhalers are generally allowed, but confirming with your carrier can help avoid any surprises.

Tip 3. Be aware of the climate and air quality

The climate and air quality at your destination can impact asthma. For example:

• Higher pollen levels, especially during spring or after thunderstorms, may worsen symptoms.

• Humidity, dry air, pollution, or smoke (such as bushfire haze) can also act as triggers.

What you can do:

• Use air-quality or pollen tracking apps to check environmental conditions at your destination.

• Avoid outdoor activities during high pollen season or when the air feels heavy or smoky.

• Choose accommodations with good air-conditioning and minimal exposure to dust and smoke.

• If you’re sensitive to specific triggers such as dust mites, moulds, or pets, try to minimise exposure in hotels or rental homes.

Tip 4. Have an emergency plan

Even with the best preparation, asthma flare-ups can happen, so you need an emergency plan.

• Make sure that your asthma action plan outlines what to do if your symptoms worsen while you’re travelling.

• Know how to access medical help wherever you are; in Australia, dial 000 for emergencies. Find out the local emergency number for overseas.

• If you can’t reach your regular GP, telehealth services like Hola Health can help with urgent advice, prescriptions, or referrals.

• Keep a record of your GP’s contact details, your current medications, and know where the nearest pharmacy or hospital is at your destination.

• Let your travel companions know how to spot early asthma symptoms and use your reliever inhaler correctly.

Tip 5. Manage stress and rest well

Travel is exciting, but it can also cause fatigue and stress. Feeling tired or stressed can make asthma worse by speeding up your breathing or making you more vulnerable to triggers. To manage this:

• Try to maintain a regular sleep routine

• Practice simple breathing exercises if you feel stressed

• Plan regular rest periods in your travel plan and keep your days manageable

• Choose relaxing, calming activities: a beach walk, easy sightseeing, and avoid intense exertion if your asthma isn’t fully under control.

Tip 6. Stay hydrated and avoid triggers

Staying well-hydrated keeps your airways moist and reduces the chance of symptoms being triggered.

• Drink plenty of water

• Avoid known triggers (smoke, strong odours, dusty accommodation)

• While choosing accommodation, look for clean places, well-ventilated and located away from areas with heavy pollen, smoke, or dust.

Tip 7. Keep your asthma action plan handy

Your asthma action plan is your personal guide to staying safe. Make sure you:

• Carry both a digital copy (on your phone) and a printed copy (in your bag).

• Share it with your travel companion(s) so they know what to do in case of an attack.

• Review it regularly: adults should update it each year, and children about every six months.

• When travelling to a place with varying weather, altitude, or allergens, ensure that your preparations take these factors into account.

When to see a doctor

You should consult your GP or an online doctor if:

• Your symptoms are worsening, or you’re relying on your reliever inhaler more often than usual.
• You’re having a flare-up, and your regular medications aren’t working the way they usually do.
• You’re planning to engage in activities that may put extra pressure on your lungs, such as high-altitude travel, scuba diving, or exposure to cold air—always check with your doctor.
• You need to renew prescriptions, update your asthma action plan, or obtain a doctor’s letter for travel or medication purposes.

With a telehealth service like Hola Health, you can book an online consultation from anywhere in Australia, making management more convenient when you’re travelling.

How Hola Health can help

Travelling with asthma? Here’s how Hola Health can help:

• Book a GP consultation before you travel for a travel-specific asthma review.
• Get prescriptions or repeat scripts for your inhalers and other medications.
• Review and update your asthma action plan through a telehealth consultation.
• Obtain a doctor’s letter listing your asthma details and medicines, handy for flights and insurance.
• Get your follow-up care or medical advice remotely if symptoms arise while travelling.
• Enjoy convenient access from anywhere in Australia, whether you’re flying interstate or overseas. Support is just a call away.

Conclusion

Asthma doesn’t have to cancel your travel plans; it just needs a place in your luggage. With little preparation and the right mindset, you’ll be set to breathe comfortably and embrace every journey that awaits you.

FAQs

Can I fly with asthma?

Yes, most people with well-controlled asthma can travel by air safely. Just make sure to keep your reliever inhaler in your hand luggage, carry your action plan, and have a doctor’s letter if needed.

What should I do if I lose my inhaler while travelling?

Contact a local pharmacy and your telehealth GP for advice. Packing a spare inhaler and extra medication in advance helps avoid the risk.

Can weather changes make asthma worse?

Yes, changes in temperature, air quality, humidity, or pollen exposure can worsen symptoms.