Planning a summer 2025 adventure?  We’re here to help you explore the world safely, scent-free, and stress-free.

Whether you're looking to stroll through an ancient city, escape to a faraway forest, or lounge on a beach, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between adventure and well-being. For those of us with fragrance sensitivities, travel can be a minefield of unexpected exposures from hotel room sprays, scented laundry, to perfumed plane passengers. But it doesn't have to be, as preparation will help make your stay safe and enjoyable.

This six step guide is here to help you travel more confidently, whether you're flying across oceans for a long-haul adventure or planning a quick weekend getaway. Here’s how to plan your trip with intention, protect your health, and enjoy your time away.

1. Prep your lodging before you arrive

The safest stays start before you check in.

• Email your hotel or Airbnb host at the time of booking

• Ask if they use fragrance in the hotel rooms and common areas or have scented products throughout the property

• Ask for your room to be free of air fresheners, diffusers, scented cleaning and laundry products, and fragrant toiletries

• Use clear, specific language: “I have a fragrance allergy and react to perfumed products, fragrances, and smoke. Can the room be cleaned using unscented supplies and kept fragrance-free? Do you have an ozone odor remover if the room is scented?”

Pro tip: Keep a saved email template so you’re not writing from scratch every time. Copy and save our our template, available at the end of this post.

2. Curate your fragrance-free travel kit

There’s no substitute for products your body already trusts. Pack the basics:

• Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, lip balm, and bug spray

• Detergent sheets (fragrance-free) for emergency laundry

• A pillowcase or towel (scented linens happen)

• Gloves for contaminated surfaces

Bring backups. TSA will occasionally toss products. Leaks happen. You'll want options. Need product ideas? Explore our curated travel-friendly picks.

3. Set boundaries for the flight

Flying in a sealed metal tube with strangers and their perfume? Not ideal. But manageable.

• Book an aisle seat for quick access to fresh air

• Ask gate agents if pets are seated nearby if you have dander allergies - they can switch your seat

• Bring a mask or scarf to block scented neighbors and reduce exposure

• Pre-board, if possible, and wipe down your seat with fragrance-free wipes

• Avoid duty-free, especially the perfume section

4. Create your safety net

Allergy tools aren't extra—they’re essential in an emergency

• EpiPen, antihistamines, and medications

• Sanitizing wipes

• Mini air purifier or charcoal bag to deodorize rooms

• Local hospital, clinics, and pharmacies info saved offline

Knowing you’re prepared = less anxiety and more freedom to enjoy your trip.

5. Tech tools to travel smarter

Make your travel safer with a little tech support.

• Allergy translation apps like Equal Eats or Allergy Translate

• Digital letter from your doctor explaining your fragrance allergy—this can help if you're questioned by airlines or hotel staff

• Accessible emergency contact information

6. Remember to ask the small questions and request the necessary accommodations

Summer travel is filled with sneaky exposures

• Confirm before departure and again when checking in

• Ask for no in-room toiletries

• Choose hotel rooms with windows that open or a balcony

• If you're booking an Airbnb, confirm no candles, plugins, or scent machines are used and the detergent is fragrance-free. Have safe brands to recommend that are available in that country

• Create an email template detailing your allergies and request (see below)

 You deserve the best vacation

The best vacations don’t happen by accident. They begin with intention. Thoughtful planning is its own kind of self-care, a quiet declaration that your comfort, your health, and your peace of mind matter.

You deserve a trip that nourishes, not one that depletes. One where you can breathe easy, sleep deeply, and fully exhale. So save this guide. Pass it on to someone who needs it. And when you land somewhere new, tag @thefragrancefree — we love seeing you make the world a little safer and learning about fragrance-free hotels and travel options.

Email Outreach Template

Subject: Fragrance Allergy – Accommodation Request for Upcoming Stay [Reservation #]

Hi [Host Name or Hotel Team],

My name is [Your Name], and I have a reservation with you from [Arrival Date] to [Departure Date], confirmation #[Reservation Number]. I'm very much looking forward to my stay.

I’m reaching out in advance because I have a medical allergy to [insert allergy—e.g., fragrance, synthetic perfumes, essential oils, etc.], and I wanted to ask a few questions to ensure a safe and comfortable visit.

Does the [hotel room / Airbnb] or property use any of the following:
– Perfumes, air fresheners, or diffused scents
– Scented candles or plug-ins
– Fragranced cleaning products or detergents (for sheets, towels, etc.)

If any of these are typically used, would it be possible to remove them from the room and, if available, use unscented or fragrance-free alternatives for the duration of my stay?

I understand this is a special request and truly appreciate any accommodations you’re able to provide. Please let me know if you have any questions or need clarification.  

Thank you so much,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number (optional)]
[Email]