Elizabeth Berrett
Travelling with eczema can feel like packing for two trips at once: the holiday you’ve booked and the skin battle you didn’t ask for. That’s why these eczema travel tips from a GP may just save sufferers from more than just flare-ups—they could prevent a medical bill nightmare abroad.
According to the National Eczema Society, around one in ten UK adults and one in five children live with atopic eczema, the most common form of the condition.
With more than 8.4 million Brits expected to jet off this September, thousands are at risk of painful flare-ups just when they should be enjoying cocktails by the pool.
And the dangers go far beyond itchy skin. Dr Asimah, GP and medical expert at Staysure, warns:
“Eczema doesn’t take a break just because you do, and your dream trip might turn into a catastrophe with unexpected medical bills if you don’t take the proper precautions.”
The Travel Insurance Trap
One of the biggest mistakes sufferers make? Failing to declare eczema when taking out travel insurance.
“Many eczema sufferers, while it is a constant struggle with flare-ups, tend to forget that eczema is still a pre-existing medical condition,” says Dr Asimah. “Therefore, it must be declared on your travel insurance policy to cover you if any emergencies happen abroad related to your condition. Even if you only use moisturiser or over-the-counter creams to manage eczema, it’s still important to declare!”
Ignore this, and that relaxing beach holiday could turn into a financial free-fall. Hospital stays abroad often cost thousands of pounds, and insurers won’t pay out if conditions haven’t been disclosed.
Dr Asimah’s 8 Essential Eczema Travel Tips
To help holidaymakers avoid disaster, Dr Asimah has laid out eight practical steps to take before heading to the airport:
1. Build your eczema kit.
“The best defence against an eczema flare is being ready for one,” says Dr Asimah. Stock up on medications, moisturisers, cooling packs, and even a light blanket for insect protection without repellents. Keep it all in your hand luggage.
2. Declare your condition.
“Even if you think it’s minor, declaring eczema and how you treat it when buying travel insurance can save you a fortune in the long run.” That includes prescription creams, antihistamines, and even herbal remedies.
3. Patch test new products.
Don’t risk experimenting with a new sunscreen under the Mediterranean sun. Test any new toiletries or sensitive-skin products at home first.
4. Be climate-conscious.
New environments can wreak havoc. “Dry air, humidity, heat, or cold, any of these could cause issues,” says Dr Asimah. Bring more moisturiser than usual, as your favourite brand might not be available abroad.
5. Prepare for the plane.
“Cabin air is drying, and you’re exposed to germs and allergens,” Dr Asimah explains. Wipe down your seat with unscented antibacterial wipes and keep medications in your carry-on bag.
6. Call ahead to reduce triggers.
Hotels can hide flare-up culprits in their bedding and cleaning products. Request feather-free pillows, bring dust-mite covers, and ask about cleaning protocols.
7. Watch out for food triggers.
For those with food-related eczema, research restaurants in advance and pack safe snacks. “Getting stuck somewhere with no safe options can be stressful, and stress can trigger a flare.”
8. Have a flare-up plan.
“In severe cases, you might need emergency care, so having your treatment plan, written prescriptions, and all relevant medical information ready could make all the difference,” says Dr Asimah.
Expert Reinforcement
The National Eczema Society echoes the importance of preparation: “Eczema is a complex medical condition and it’s important to plan ahead when travelling, says National Eczema Society.
Sometimes the change in climate and environment when you’re away on holiday can trigger eczema flare-ups. Make sure you take your emollients and other treatments and pack in your suitcase, even if your skin is clear when you depart.
National Eczema Society has lots of practical tips at www.eczema.org including factsheets to help you prepare for your holiday. It can feel like climbing a mountain just getting ready to go away, but it’s worth it as the rest, relaxation and change of environment can often be good for eczema!”
Final Word
As Dr Asimah sums it up: “The truth is, insurers need a complete picture of your health. It’s not about making things difficult; it’s about protecting you with medical travel insurance.”
So before you grab your passport and sunscreen, make sure your eczema kit is packed, your insurance policy is honest, and your flare-up plan is in place. Because nothing ruins a holiday faster than an itchy rash—except a bill for thousands on top of it.
