Gluten Free Travel Tips

Gluten Free Vegan Falafel in Tel Aviv, Israel

Hey guys! Emily here, and today I want to talk about something that's very near and dear to my heart: gluten free travel! As someone who has to follow a gluten-free diet, I know how difficult it can be to navigate new places and find safe, delicious food options. But fear not, my friends! With a little bit of planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy a gluten-free vacation just as much as anyone else.

First things first, do your research. Before you even leave for your trip, spend some time researching the gluten-free dining options in the area you'll be visiting. Look up restaurants and cafes that offer gluten-free menus, read reviews from other gluten-free travelers, and make note of any local specialties that are naturally gluten-free. If you're traveling internationally, it can be helpful to learn some key phrases in the local language so you can communicate your dietary needs to servers and chefs.

I bookmark all the restaurant locations in my apple map app so that we I am out and about I can just check my map to see what options I am close to. I did this in Mexico City and it was a game-changer for making it so easy to find food.

Next, pack some gluten-free snacks. No matter how well you plan, there may be times when you're out and about and just can't find a safe gluten-free meal option. That's where snacks come in handy! Pack some gluten-free bars, nuts, almond butter packets, seaweed snacks or dried fruit in your purse or backpack so you always have something to munch on in a pinch. And if you're traveling by plane, make sure to bring some gluten-free snacks with you in case the airline's food options don't work for you.

Learn key phrases in the local language If you're traveling to a country where you don't speak the language, it's helpful to learn some key phrases related to gluten-free dining. For example, "I cannot eat gluten" or "Is this gluten-free?" in the local language can be very useful.

Be cautious when dining out. When dining out, it's important to communicate your gluten-free needs to your server. Ask questions about how the food is prepared and if there is a risk of cross-contamination. If you're not confident that the restaurant can accommodate your needs, don't be afraid to choose a different restaurant or opt for a dish that you know is safe.

Research local cuisine Before you go, do some research on the local cuisine to get a sense of what dishes are typically gluten-free. For example, in some countries, rice and corn are staples, so dishes that are based on these ingredients may be a safe bet. It's also a good idea to look up any traditional dishes that are naturally gluten-free and seek those out.

Consider self-catering AKA home cooking If you're traveling for an extended period of time, consider staying in an apartment or vacation rental that has a kitchen. This way, you can prepare your own gluten-free meals and have complete control over what you're eating.

Finally, don't let your gluten-free diet hold you back from trying new things. Just because you can't eat gluten doesn't mean you can't enjoy the local cuisine! Look for dishes that are naturally gluten-free, like rice and steamed vegetables, and don't be afraid to ask for modifications to dishes to make them gluten-free. And if you do find yourself in a situation where there's nothing on the menu that works for you, remember that you can always enjoy a nice beverage while your travel companions enjoy their meals.

So there you have it, folks! With a little bit of planning and some confidence in your dietary needs, you can travel the world and enjoy delicious gluten-free meals along the way.

Happy travels!

Dairy Free Vegan Ice Cream with a gluten free cone in Israel