Could you imagine going on a Mediterranean cruise, constantly in fear that you’re accidentally going to ingest seafood?
Anyone who’s grown up with allergies knows the fear and stress that eating food you haven’t personally prepared can bring. Shellfish allergies and a naturally occurring fear of going into anaphylactic shock, for example, have kept far too many away from travelling to foreign countries for far too long.
Here are some tricks and tips for anybody with food allergies planning to travel:
Air Travel
Whatever airline you’re using, contact them before your flight and inform them of any allergies you have. They usually do a very good job of informing the staff and supplying a meal that fits your needs. Always be sure to inform the hostess of any nut allergies as soon as you board so they don’t unwittingly pass out bags of peanuts to passengers. You can check American Airlines’ special meals here.
Translation Cards
There are a couple of translation cards for food allergies on the market, and if you’re traveling internationally with susceptibility to food allergies, you should definitely invest in one. If you eat out a lot, it is very likely you already have an allergy identification card that lists your specific allergies so chefs can prepare your meals safely. This is essentially the same service but with translated cards you can purchase depending on where you are travelling. The cards sport easily understood pictures showcasing your allergies and may end up proving invaluable to you when you eat and shop out in other countries.
Be Prepared for the Worst
Even the best-laid plans go awry, so you need to be prepared for anything. If you’re prescribed epinephrine make sure you have it on you always, no excuses. Inform whoever you are travelling with of your allergies and what to do if you have a reaction. They should know exactly where you keep your EpiPen and how to use it if the need arises.
Additionally, be sure to have a working understanding of the hospitals in the area and the best way to get to them, and make sure you have a way to communicate with the staff about what you are reacting to. You should also be carrying any medication you might need.
It may be pertinent to look into medical travel insurance and decide whether that’s right for you. While it’s mainly marketed to adventure tourists and medical tourists, frequent fliers and anybody that travels often (especially with food allergies) might benefit from the added protection.
International Resources
The International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers (IAMAT.org) offers a free one-year membership that provides travelers with information on health risks, vaccinations, and food/water safety tips for many countries. The organization can also provide a list of English-speaking doctors in the area where you will be staying.
While you should always be mindful of your allergies, you shouldn’t let them keep you from exploring the world. Plenty have had their share of scares at home and abroad, but if you take the proper precautions, your travels will be safe and fulfilling.
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