I never thought I’d become an expert in traveling with food allergies—but dating someone with them changes the way you plan every trip. Kenny has severe fish and nut allergies. navigate airportsI was surprised to see how much preparation goes into each trip. The wrong bite could land you in the ER.
You can also read about the advantages of using Dr. Atul N. Shah, MDPreparation prior to booking is crucial for a fun and safe trip. This means talking to your doctor, researching the food labeling laws of a destination, finding allergy-friendly restaurants even before packing, bookmarking menus that list ingredients clearly, and carrying a bag with you. translation cards Communication is key to ensuring that there are no misunderstandings.
Kenny’s practical experience and Dr. Shah’s expert advice helped me create a system to ensure our system was safe and thorough. doctor-approved, traveler-tested checklist of Amazon finds and smart planning strategies for exploring the world—without constantly worrying about what’s on your plate. Prices start as low as $5.
Checklist of Food Allergies for Travel Approved by Doctors
For restaurants, do your research on allergy-friendly establishments beforehand and their menus. To find safe choices, use online reviews, local resources, and apps. Familiarize you with the local food and common allergens. Dr. Shah
Keep your medication organized and accessible
Kenny advised me to always have two EpiPens, and Benadryl on hand. It can be difficult to get Benadryl abroad. He swears that Auvi-Q EpiPen Case Because it holds everything in one place, it can fit both EpiPens and clips to a backpack or belt loop. This makes it less likely that you will lose them on a trip.
Dr. Shah agrees you should always carry “extra epinephrine to last your entire trip,” adding that your emergency action plan, allergy-safe snacks, and medical alert ID should be equally accessible—not buried in your checked luggage. This case provides the ideal portable solution.
Klawdsky Auvi Medicine Emergency Bag
Amazon
Be sure that all travel companions understand how to administer the epinephrine as well as when to seek medical attention.
Benadryl Ultratabs Allergy and Asthma Relief Medicine
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Fyy Daily Pill Organizer
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Always carry allergy cards
A language barrier can turn a simple meal into a risky gamble. Kenny advised: “Find someone that speaks the language. Explain your allergies and ask them to translate it into writing.” “Don’t use Google Translate.”
If you are unable to find local help, Dr. Shah advises that you use translation cards which clearly explain to chefs and waitstaff your allergies. These Equal Eats Allergy Translation Cards They are available in many languages and waterproof. They can also help you to avoid cross-contamination or unsafe ingredients. You shouldn’t rely on the phone in case it dies or is not available. The customizable option is another great choice. Secure ID Chef CardsThey also allow you to specify your allergens. The cards are durable and can be stored in a wallet.
Equal Eats Allergy Card Translation
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Secure ID Customized Allergy Cards
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Store medical information and travel documents together
When you need emergency assistance abroad, it’s not a good idea to have to search through your bag for the pocket where you put your allergy card. Dr. Shah says that having all your important information in one place can save you time in an urgent situation. The Hohom Passport HolderWith just $10 you’ll be able to store all your travel documents, including passports, emergency contacts, allergy info, medical histories, and insurance policies. It’s also RFID-protected and waterproof.
A tracker is always recommended because it’s possible that things can still get lost. Apple AirTag inside your document holder—so even if it gets separated from you, you can track it down before panic sets in.
Hohom Passport Holder
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Apple AirTag
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How to control your own food
If you are unsure, bring your own food or snacks. Leakproof food containers You can prepare safe meals in advance to take on a plane or day trip. Dr. Shah emphasized that if you don’t know exactly what’s in something, it’s best not to eat it at all—even if it “looks safe.”
It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. Amazing Containers These are perfect for travelling because they can be folded to a mere 3 centimeters in thickness and therefore easier to pack into your suitcase. The plates are also dishwasher and microwave safe. They are also dishwasher and microwave safe. Everfun Small Cooler Box It is ideal for road trips and beach days.
Amazing Containers Collapsible Food Containers
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Everfun Small Lunch Cooler
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Tip: Bring Sanitizing Supplies
Cross-contamination isn’t confined to kitchens—it can also occur on airplane tray tables, restaurant silverware, or even hotel room counters. Dr. Shah recommends packing antibacterial hand Wipes The following are some examples of how to get started: travel-sized hand sanitizer So you can wash your hands and eat surfaces before a meal.
Purell Sanitizing Wipes
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Generic Hand Sanitizer
Amazon
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