As summer winds down, many people are packing in one last trip before the season ends. Whether you're headed to the beach, mountains, or visiting family across the country, one thing can quickly turn a relaxing trip into an uncomfortable experience: the pressure that can build in your ears and sinuses during travel.

While often overlooked, altitude changes, dry air, and even local allergens can irritate ears, noses, and throats, especially during air travel.

“To avoid allergy flare-ups and sinus irritation during travel, preparation is key,” said Jessica Grayson, M.D., MS, associate professor in the UAB Department of Otolaryngology. “If you typically use allergy treatments, oral or topical, be sure to pack them. If you perform sinus rinses and have concerns about access to distilled water, don’t fret—bottled water works just fine.”

Grayson offers five key tips for late-summer travelers to help protect their ears and sinuses.

Hydrate early and often.

Staying well-hydrated isn’t just about beating the summer heat. Drinking plenty of water helps your body maintain healthy mucous membranes, which serve as the first line of defense for your nose and sinuses. Airplane cabins tend to be extremely dry, so staying hydrated is essential before, during, and after your flight.

Keep nasal passages moist.

Dry air can irritate your nasal tissues and increase your risk of congestion, bleeding, or sinus pressure. A saline nasal spray can help keep moisture in your nose and prevent blockages. It’s safe, easy to pack, and especially helpful before boarding and landing. If you are prone to dryness, non-menthol chapstick or coconut oil are good alternatives to keep the nose moist. Using a small pea-sized amount inside the nose can prevent the discomfort of a dry nose.

Balance ear pressure during takeoff and landing

That sudden “pop” you feel in your ears when the plane climbs or descends? It’s your body reacting to a quick change in air pressure. To ease the transition, simple actions like swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum can help open the small passageways in your ears, called Eustachian tubes, so the pressure can equalize more comfortably. It’s a small trick that can make a big difference in-flight.

Use decongestants wisely

If you’re feeling congested before a flight, a nasal decongestant can help clear your airways and reduce pressure buildup during takeoff and landing. But use them with caution. Overuse can worsen congestion and dry out your nasal passages, making symptoms harder to manage mid-trip. Always follow your provider’s recommendations and avoid using these products for more than a few days in a row.

Skip the flight if you’re sick

Flying with a cold, sinus infection, or even mild congestion can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of barotrauma, a painful condition caused by pressure buildup in the ears. If you’re not feeling your best, it’s wise to hold off on flying until you’ve recovered to prevent turning a short trip into a long-term problem.