Behind The Label

Traveling can be EXTRA turbulent for those with food allergies – physically, emotionally, and logistically.

I personally love to travel. Whether it’s skiing in snowy Utah, lounging on a beach in sunny Florida, exploring a fast-paced city like NYC, or wandering the cobblestone streets of Italy, the excitement of new places always calls to me. But while most travelers worry about delays, traffic, or weather, those with food allergies face a unique and often invisible layer of stress that can feel so overwhelming.

The idea of being 30,000 feet up in the air with limited access to medical care, unfamiliar food, and unpredictable environment can make even short flights feel like major risks. I remember a time when I wouldn’t eat anything on a flight out of my such extreme fear. In my mind, being 30,000 feet in the air meant fewer resources, no nearby hospital, and far too many “what ifs.” It didn’t feel worth it.

But here’s the truth: traveling IS possible for those with food allergies. With the right preparation and advocacy, you can feel safe, calm, and confident wherever your journey takes you. Here are a few great strategies that have made all the difference for me:

1. Packing allergy safe food/snacks

Most in-flight meals, or complimentary snacks, don’t come with full ingredient lists, and cross-contamination risks can be high. That’s why I always bring my own food, things that I know are definitly safe. Whether it be a bagel or sandwich, chips, fruit, or allergy-safe snacks, it give me peace of mind and allows me to enjoy the flight without worry.

2. Notify the Airline About Food Allergies when first Booking and at the Gate. 

When booking, always note your food allergies and follow up at check-in. I’ve often been allowed to pre-board so I can wipe down my seat and settle in the seat stress-free. Letting the gate agents and flight attendants know ahead of time ensures they’re aware and can follow allergy protocols. They also most times notify those 2 rows ahead and behind you to not eat any nut products which adds as a huge stress-relief to my flight experience.

3. Always carry Epi-pens in your carry-on/backpack

I like to bring 2 separate epipens, for a total of four devices total. One in my carry on bag so its always accessible on the plane and the other in the suitcase just in case one is lost or a specific situation was to occur.  That way if you lose a set while you’re traveling you always have a spare back in your hotel room and there is no need for extra stress.

4. Clean Your Area
When you board the plane, wipe down your seat, tray table, armrests, window, TV, remote, and anything else you might touch with disinfectant wipes. Don’t forget the seatbelt buckle and the buttons above your head. Keep lots of wipes on hand so you can wipe before eating and after moving around the cabin.

5. Remember that flying with food allergies is doable!

I know personally that especially when experiencing an allergy, flying on airplane about to embark on an extremely relaxing vacation you’ve been looking forward to, and is not a stressor for anyone else, seems extremely scary or overwhelming. But here’s the truth, it’s doable!! With the right preparation and mindset.

So next time you board an airplane or buy that ticket for your next vacation, don’t think of it as a gamble, or game of roulette. Instead, think of it as an opportunity, one where you’re fully prepared, fully capable, and ready to enjoy and experience the world!!!