A £20 Carbon Monoxide Travel Alarm Could Have Saved My Son’s Life

When my 24-year-old son, Hudson, set off on his travels through South America in May 2023, I never imagined I would never see him again.

Hudson was the kind of person who lit up every room he entered—a young man full of life, with a deep curiosity to explore the world and help others. After months of saving, he embarked on a structured language and volunteering trip across Latin America, staying in accommodation provided by a well-known travel company specializing in young people’s adventures.

On the morning of Wednesday, August 30th, Hudson had a hearty breakfast, joked with his homestay family and fellow volunteers, and spoke to me on the phone. An hour later, he was found unresponsive in the bathroom, having succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning—a deadly, invisible gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels.

Hudson on his travels

Carbon Monoxide: A silent killer for travellers

Hudson’s death was tragic and avoidable. Carbon monoxide is not only a risk in most UK homes but also poses particular dangers abroad, where safety standards and the maintenance of heating and cooking appliances can be far less regulated.

As a mother, I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and regret. When Hudson went travelling, I had very little understanding of carbon monoxide risks, let alone how easily a simple £20 alarm could have saved my son's life. The company Hudson traveller with provided a detailed packing list that included expensive hiking boots, a rucksack, and various other gear; however there was no mention of carbon monoxide safety or the importance of carrying a carbon monoxide travel alarm.

One year on from Hudson’s passing, and with deep sorrow, I launched Pack Safe Appeal: Hudson’s campaign for Carbon Monoxide Travel Safety, in partnership with the Safer Tourism Foundation, Policy Connect, and the CO Alarms Save Lives campaign. We want to do more to protect young travellers from the hidden dangers of carbon monoxide and prevent other families from experiencing the heartbreak we as a family endure every single day. It’s too late for Hudson but not for other young people going on their adventures.

Portable carbon monoxide alarms are lightweight and can fit in carryons or checked luggage

Urging travel companies to inform travellers about the risks of carbon monoxide

Traveling, especially as a young person, is meant to be a life-changing, exciting experience. It’s an opportunity to see the world, learn new things, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Hudson’s story shouldn’t be a deterrent for young travellers; in fact, I know he would not want it to be. But, as a mother, I wish I had known the simple steps I could have taken to protect him. I urge all parents, guardians, and young travellers to take carbon monoxide risks seriously.

As part of the Pack Safe Appeal and in conjunction with Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, we want travel companies to do more when it comes to arming travellers against the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. While there are no internationally recognised standards around CO safety, there are actions travel companies can take to help minimise the risks for travellers. We’re calling on all travel companies, and especially those targeting young travellers, to educate their customers and encourage them to bring a portable carbon monoxide alarm with them on their travels.

Look out for information about carbon monoxide safety from your travel provider - and if you don’t see it, ask them about their advice and policies.

Hudson Foley, traveller and adventurer

There’s a lot I wish I had known before Hudson went travelling. This is why I’m sharing some vital tips that could save a life—whether it’s your own or that of someone you love:

Tip #1: Pack a Carbon Monoxide Travel Alarm

A carbon monoxide alarm is small, portable, and could easily have been attached to Hudson’s bag. The Pack Safe Appeal has partnered with Safelincs to offer an affordable, 10-year battery-operated alarm, which can be attached to a rucksack or travel bag. It’s a simple device that could save your life in accommodation with poor ventilation or faulty appliances. 10 Year Longlife Battery Carbon Monoxide Detector - from £19.69.

Tip #2: Choose Accommodation with Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Whenever possible, select accommodations that have carbon monoxide alarms installed. This is especially important in places that use gas-powered heating or cooking appliances. Many travel accommodation listing websites highlight the amenities and features available - in some cases, this includes whether or not the property has a carbon monoxide alarm. Look for accommodation that includes a CO alarm, and consider asking the hotel, host or travel company about the safety measures they have in place.

Tip #3: Choose Travel Companies That Address Carbon Monoxide Safety

I strongly encourage travellers to book with companies that recognise the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and take it seriously. Look for companies that highlight this danger on their websites and provide information about how to stay safe, including the recommendation to carry a portable CO alarm.

Travel safe and take a few steps to protect yourself

Traveling should be a safe and joyful experience, full of growth and new opportunities. Sadly, it’s impossible to check the safety standards of every place you stay, especially abroad, where regulations may not be as stringent. This is why we all have a personal responsibility to take action and protect ourselves.

By packing a carbon monoxide alarm and spreading the word, we can help ensure that this silent killer doesn’t claim another life. Please, take the time to educate yourself and others about the risks of carbon monoxide. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference.

Hudson’s legacy will live on through this campaign and I hope that, together, we can make travel safer for all.

Hudson, with brother Jordan and sister Natasha