Many people have food allergies, however, this should not stop them from traveling to places. Get some simple and useful travel tips, in case you are allergic to certain foods. These tips would definitely make your trip easier.
Traveling to different places, especially when you are allergic to some food items, is really a difficult task. People who are aware of their allergic conditions, should take extra care when they are on tours. Managing to eat what is available, and that too within your restricted diet, becomes a real challenge at times. Keeping a few things in mind may come to your rescue at this point.
Tips for Travelers with Food Allergies
Food allergies can be life-threatening at times. This fact calls for extra precaution, as the necessary medication might not be readily available in an unknown land, and you might end up in a hospital, instead of attending that important meeting, or enjoying a vacation with your family. Following are some tips, which, if followed religiously, can keep many difficult situations at bay.
✔ Research About Your Destination
If you have planned your destination, it is better to research about each and every detail of the place, and the route you are going to take. If you have planned for a road trip, then find out what all places you will cross, and what are the hotels/motels that can accommodate your needs and requirements. Make prior bookings, which will reduce last-minute rush. Ask for an allergy-free accommodation at the destination as well.
✔ Make Bookings According to Your Requirements
Inform the hotel about your allergies and medical condition, prior to making any reservations. Try to get a hotel or suite which can provide you with a kitchen. Look for facilities like fridge and microwave, so that you and your family can cook your own food and store it. This will reduce the risk of an allergic reaction to a great extent. If you are traveling on a cruise or taking a flight, inquire about the food before departure.
✔ Plan for a Safe Plane Ride
There are many flights that allow you to carry homemade food, as long as you do not carry any liquid. Inquire about it with the airline, and take their permission to carry food with you. Many airlines provide gluten-free food and can even give you a special meal according to your requirement. So, ask about their services while booking the ticket. If you have a very serious allergy, then it is better to settle everything beforehand.
✔ Pack Your Medications
Carry all your prescribed allergy medicines, and take them on time. This will reduce the risk of getting an attack, and will also save you in case of one. Always carry your doctor’s prescription, as it will help you procure medicines in case of an emergency. Meet your doctor before leaving for the trip, and get his guidelines. Pack your medications and your doctor’s prescription letter in your ‘carry on’ while boarding the plane.
✔ Hand Wipes and Sanitizers are a Must
It is very important to maintain hygiene. Hand wipes can be used for cleaning tables and chairs, cutlery, crockery, etc., as it will ensure that your surroundings are clean. Wash your hands with soap and water, and if unavailable, use sanitizers, as alcohol kills most of the germs. Make it a habit to maintain hygiene, as much as possible, at all times.
✔ Know What Your Allergy is Called in the Local Language
It is very important to know what your allergy is called in the local language of the area that you are planning to visit. You can easily get an allergy translation card, which will help you to figure out what to eat. If it still doesn’t work, limit yourself to the food you are sure about.
✔ Learn the Use of First Aid
You should know everything about your allergy, and what first aid you should take in case of an attack. Carry all the necessary things which you may need at the time of an emergency. Many people require medicinal shots; therefore, inform the people traveling with you about your medical condition. Get the local emergency number so that they can be contact immediately for medical assistance.
Make a note of all the points that you need to keep in mind, before starting on your trip. In case of severe allergy, wear a medical identification bracelet which can be of great help. Be cautious and take complete care of yourself and your family. The more alert you are, the better it is for your safety.
Disclaimer: This Vacayholics article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.