Trailblazing Unleashed

When I was first diagnosed with Celiac Disease, I was terrified of travel. Now, five years later, I have been to 3 continents and 4 countries. Here’s what I’ve learned.

Airports Suck with Celiac Disease.

Before you can even think about your destination, you have to think about getting there. I know this seems obvious, but I rarely planned how I was going to eat in airports, and boy do I regret that. There’s nothing like running from flight to flight on an empty stomach. Long travel days suck enough without being starving on a plane.

Check out maps of the airport before you go! See what restaurants and stores are close to your gate, and then check to see what is Celiac safe. Using apps like Find Me Gluten Free really help, but a straight google search will do the trick in a pinch.

I would also recommend taking some snacks with you! Things like granola bars are allowed through TSA and can make the difference between hangry and happy. If you’re checking a bag, I would also recommend bringing some snacks for you destination as well.

Know Your Destination.

Where you’re going can really change your experience. Whether it’s a predetermined trip like a business trip or study abroad group, or a personal adventure, you can adapt to you location.

Do some research about your agenda before you go. If you know how often you like to eat, make sure that you’ll be somewhere you can find a snack or a meal around that time.

Some destinations are more accessibility friendly than others, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into ahead of time. I had a much easier time in Italy finding food than I did in Trinidad and Tobago. It really just depends on you, and who you’re going with! I would definitely recommend bringing snacks no matter what! A protein shake has saved me many, many times.

You should also look up custom regulations as well! Things like fruits or other biological foods cannot go through a lot of countries customs.

Work with Others!

Don’t be afraid to talk to your travel companions! More often than not, they’re going to be willing to help you! Whether its friends, relatives, or tour guides, I’ve had a lot of positive experiences with others helping me find where to eat!

My family is well adjusted to my eating habits, so I can count on them to help me find good food! My friends are equally accommodating, and they’re often willing to make plans around where I can eat.

Tour guides and study abroad facilitators are often the best people to help in this situation! If there is any sort of language barrier, having a local person to have your back is incredibly helpful. They can also hep guide you to good food with cooks who will accommodate your needs!

It is Possible.

All in all, international travel is possible with Celiac Disease! I have had a lot of good experiences with food and travel. With proper planning, nothing is impossible with Celiac Disease. Plan ahead, and you’ll be able to take on the world!

In the next few weeks, I’ll be doing posts on specific countries I have been to so you can get a better scope on travel to certain places.

Good luck out there, and trailblaze on!

— Kaya