6 tips to ensure an allergy-free hotel stay

Any trip can easily be ruined by miserable allergies. The good news is you can do something about it: here are six tips to ensure an allergy-free hotel stay that really work.

Although hotels clean their rooms when guests leave, many more are now taking the extra step of installing air purification systems in their rooms to reduce airborne contaminants and irritants. In turn, this measure helps to reduce the possibility of an allergic reaction to things floating around in the air.

When the linens are a higher thread count, they tend to better repel dust mites and other contaminants from penetrating between the fibres. Since high-count sheets are more tightly woven, you don’t have to worry as much about allergens piling up on the sheets. In turn, the air you breathe will be cleaner and less likely to trigger allergies.

Most hotels have carpeted rooms, which tend to trap dust mites, dirt, smoke and other contaminants more than hard flooring. Dust mites can't survive on tile, laminate or hardwood floors, a boon for anyone who is worried about hotels and allergies. Hardwood flooring is not just easier for the hotel to clean, but it will help you to breathe easier.

Depending on where you are expecting to travel, certain areas are prone to high levels of humidity. If you are planning a trip during the warm summer months, you want to make sure the room has a dehumidifier in it—especially if there's no air conditioning.

A dehumidifier will help to extract humidity from the air and leave you with a room where everything feels dry—instead of damp to the touch. When humidity levels are low, dust mites aren’t able to survive. Also, airborne mould is less likely to grow.

Countless people are sensitive to cigarette and cigar smoke. If you already struggle with allergies, smoke is only going to make the situation worse. Despite widespread smoking bans, many hotels offer smoking rooms and indoor areas where it is permitted. Find out beforehand where these areas are to make sure you don't get a room that's very close. Allergies in hotels are commonly triggered by cigarette smoke.

Just like cigarette smoke, pets can cause an allergic reaction in many individuals. Animals' dander, urine and saliva can end up causing someone else to sneeze, wheeze and suffer from a runny nose and eyes. It can take months to get rid of their dandruff, fur and whatnot. Always ask if the hotel is pet-friendly before booking if you are concerned about allergies. If they are, you might want to look elsewhere for accommodations.

While there are a lot of things to consider, a few simple questions (and requests) will ensure your hotel stay is pleasant and sneeze-free.