How to Mitigate Allergies When Staying at Hotel Rooms or Airbnbs
If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from allergies, then you know how difficult it can be to travel. Hotel rooms and Airbnbs can be a minefield of allergens, from dust mites to pet dander, and everything in between. But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to mitigate your allergies and have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. In this post, we will share tips and tricks for how to mitigate allergies when staying at hotel rooms or Airbnbs.
- Choose a hotel or Airbnb with hard floors – as mentioned earlier, choosing accommodations with hard floors instead of carpet is an excellent way to reduce allergens. Carpets tend to trap allergens like dust, pet dander, and pollen, making them more challenging to eliminate. Hardwood, tile, or laminate floors are much easier to keep clean and free of allergens. For example, the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach (read our review!) recently renovated its rooms with wooden floors, making it a great option for allergy sufferers.
- Bring your own pillow and bedding bringing your own pillow and bedding can help you avoid exposure to dust mites, one of the most common allergens found in hotels and Airbnbs. Choose hypoallergenic materials for your pillow and bedding to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
- Request a hypoallergenic room – many hotels now offer hypoallergenic rooms that are specially designed to reduce allergens. These rooms typically feature special air filters, bedding, and flooring to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Don’t be afraid to ask for one of these rooms when booking your stay.
- Check for pet-friendly policies If you have pet allergies, be sure to check the hotel or Airbnb’s pet-friendly policy before booking your stay. Even if a property does not allow pets, previous guests may have brought their pets, leaving allergens behind. If you’re unsure, call the property and ask about their pet policy and cleaning procedures.
- Use a portable air purifier – a portable air purifier can help remove allergens from the air in your hotel room or Airbnb. Look for a purifier with a HEPA filter, which can capture tiny particles like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. The Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier is a popular choice for allergy sufferers.
- Pack your allergy medication – even with the best precautions, you may still experience allergy symptoms during your stay. Be sure to pack your allergy medication, including antihistamines, nasal sprays, and inhalers. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to check the laws regarding medication and bring a doctor’s note if necessary.
- Research local allergens- before you travel, research the local allergens in the area you’ll be visiting. For example, if you’re traveling to a city with high pollen counts, you may want to bring extra allergy medication or plan your activities accordingly. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology offers a handy tool for checking pollen counts in different areas of the US.
- Communicate with your host or hotel staff If you have specific allergies or concerns, be sure to communicate them with your host or hotel staff. They may be able to provide additional accommodations, such as removing down pillows or blankets from your room.
By following these tips, you can reduce your exposure to allergens and have a more comfortable stay at your hotel room or Airbnb. Don’t let allergies ruin your vacation – take control and enjoy your travels.