On the Road with Celiac Disease

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Traveling can be difficult on anyone’s digestive system, adding celiac disease to the mix can ramp things up to another level.  Managing the daily and diverse challenges of celiac disease on the road can be a daunting task.

But really- don’t find yourself caught standing in the dust of others wheels as they spin off on vacation without you.  Celiac disease can come along for the ride too.

Here are some suggestions that may serve to decrease your pre-trip anxieties and make your travels more enjoyable.

1. Do your homework before you go.  Knowing what is available along the way and once you reach your destination is so important.

2. Pack heavy snacks, be prepared not to find what you were hoping for.  Go Picnics come in a variety of options, add a drink and a piece of fruit and you are golden.

3. Be prepared to get sick.  I know that sounds terrible, but if you know it may happen you’ll be ready for it.  If you normally get diarrhea and stomach upset with gluten exposure bring your first aid kit with the tools you need.  If this is your first time traveling, speak with your health care provider about suggested medications you should pack along.

4. We always find amazing gluten free surprises when we are traveling.  While in Europe we came across delicious pre-packaged breads, par-baked croissants, pastas, pizzerias with gluten free pies, etc.  We loved finding foods we never had before that were safe and delicious.

5. Don’t despair, you can always revert to a picnic anywhere you are.  Find crackers, chips, meats, cheeses, veggies/ fruits and a dessert.  A gluten free meal is easily patched together on the fly and will fill your tummy temporarily.

6. Google it! Navigate your way through the towns you visit on the web to find out where to eat.  Find a local health food store and inquire with employees about restaurant suggestions.  They are used to catering to people with specific dietary needs.

7.  There are many informative websites that point you in the right direction for a gluten free dining experience.  A restaurant doesn’t need to be gluten-free to meet your needs.  However, you must be willing to tell your waiter what your needs are so they can meet them.  It doesn’t hurt to preface your order with “I’m a good tipper”- I use that line frequently.

Check out: glutenfreeregistry.com glutenfreetravelsite.com

There are free restaurant cards in 51 languages from celiactravel.com available.  These come in handy, especially if you are not skilled in the language of the country you are visiting.

8. If you are flying tell the airline you are gluten free and request a meal when you make your reservations.  We found the gluten free meal to be wonderful on Air Canada, now that was a welcome surprise on a long flight.

9. Look into Celiac Societies where you will be traveling.  Check out the Gluten Intolerance Group of North America (GIG) or the Gluten Free Restaurant Awareness Program (GFRAP).

10. Make your accommodations in a place that has a kitchen or kitchenette that you can shop and prepare food in. This not only decreases expenses but ensures you will have many meals that you can count on to be gluten free.  Be sure to wash the pots and pans well before you use them in case they have  glutinous remnants on them.