controlling allergies during travel

• When travelling, take plenty of medication with you - in a carry-on bag, in case your luggage decides to take its own vacation. Keep a list close at hand of all your family's medications; treatment plans and emergency telephone numbers.

• Be sure to request a nonsmoking room in hotels and motels and a nonsmoking rental car. Be aware of other possible allergens in hotels, such as fresh paint or holiday decorations. It you're staying with relatives, discuss allergy prevention before your arrive. Staying in a hotel can sometimes be more cost-effective than endangering you or your child's health.

• Traveling to other climates and higher altitudes can be stressful to people - especially children - with severe asthma. Cold and dry air can cause bronchospasm if a person's asthma is unstable.

• In the warmer climates, family trips to zoos; circuses, fairs and ranches can be unpleasant for those with animal allergies. Molds are also common.