Traveling on an airplane presents myriad challenges for someone with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. But sometimes a canary must fly.
Post by Kimberly Shaw.
Having just returned from a trip to Hawaii, air travel is fresh in my mind (and my body is still recovering)!
Planning ahead can make all the difference! The first thing I do is try to get a seat as close to first-class as possible or even better, in first-class (my husband travels often, so we sometimes get upgraded). The first-class cabin provides more outside air per person. I also find bulk head seats work well, as they create more room between others and myself.
Then I pack certain items in a little kit to keep with me at all times on the flight in the seatback pocket. In this I put things like a mask, vitamin C powder and the homeopathic remedy Apis Mellifica (these help me with reactions), safe soap to use in the bathroom, and an epi-pen. I also buy bottled water after going through airport security to keep with the kit. In addition to the kit, I bring my own organic food. I bring a small cooler and empty containers or bags to put ice in after I get through airport security. This keeps things cool and fresh.
I prefer to travel with someone(s) who understands me. Then if I am having a tough time, I can talk to them about it. They can also help me find a solution or run interference for me, if needed. This is especially helpful when you are in the middle of a reaction and need to change seats due to sitting near someone with a strong fragrance!
Other travel tips:
Use a mask in the airport, in the bathrooms, on the plane, and in the baggage area! It not only will help protect you from fragrances, but also will protect you from germs (wash hands often, too)!
Plan some down time when you reach your destination! You might need some time to recover from the flight, especially if you are changing time zones.
If you are traveling internationally, be sure to check to see if pesticides will be used on the plane. If so, you might decide to wear protective gear or NOT make the trip at all.
Make sure the items you pack in your suitcase are well sealed, as sometimes they can pick up fragrances and chemical residues along the way.
Bring a safe pillow and blanket to protect you from the seats, sometimes they clean them with chemicals.
Drink plenty of filtered water before, during and after the flight.
Stand up, stretch and walk around on the plane.
As soon as you reach your destination, remove your clothes, wash them and take a shower.
Bring a car air purifier, you can use this in the car and in your hotel room or place you are staying.
Have some calming aids (hey, traveling is stressful, especially with MCS!). For me, I do well with Calcium/Magnesium, Passionflower (herb), Moon Drops (homeopathic lozenges), breathing techniques and music that soothes on my iPod. Some people do better with things like Rescue Remedy, Lavender essential oil (aromatherapy), Chamomile, etc.
Sometimes humor is the most valuable tool! Not to make light of a bad situation, but I tend to find humor in almost anything. It helps me cope with what would be an otherwise stressful situation. (Like dealing with the TSA!)
Happy travels!
Come visit me at my blog Serendipity.
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