Planning a vacation can be a harrowing experience, especially when you have to plan for issues that relate to celiac disease. Whether you or your children have dietary problems related to this disease, maintaining a strict, gluten-free diet during travel and after you reach your destination can be challenging. For peace of mind, prepare for the trip and fine tune all details before you walk out the door.

Research

First, if you are flying, check with the airlines to see if either they offer gluten-free choices or will allow you to bring appropriate snacks for yourself and/or your family.

If you are planning a cruise, make sure beforehand that you set up arrangements for a gluten-free experience. You do not want to find yourself traveling on the ocean without the proper resources available to ensure you can nourish yourself.

Next, if you plan to rent a room, check the hotel where you will be staying and see if there are gluten-free options. Perhaps the room offers a kitchenette. If so, you can purchase food there or pack supplies before the trip, depending upon room. If you are planning to fly, this may not be possible.

What to Bring

If you are able to pack food for your trip, some good choices are:

• Peanut Butter

• Protein snacks such as cashews, almonds, or pistachios

• Gluten free crackers, bread, or pretzels

If, for any reason, you find yourself in a situation where you are limited, do not panic. There are still options, but do not be afraid to speak up. People cannot address a problem when they do not know it exists. If you find yourself in a situation where you have no ideas, you can easily ask for items that do not have gluten. For example, make sure that any meat you order has no gravies or batter style coating. You may be limited, but this does not mean you need to starve.  It is, however beneficial to always have a celiac disease jewelry on yourself. Celiac disease bracelet won’t cure your disease but it will help others identify your condition in case you are in no sense to explain about it.