Traveling is one of the greatest joys in life - seeing new places, experiencing different cultures, and embracing adventure. But when you have Celiac disease, the excitement can quickly turn into stress. How will you find safe food? What if you get glutened? Will you spend the trip worrying instead of enjoying the journey?
I get it because I’ve been there! My first travel experience as a newly diagnosed Celiac was a work trip to Nashville, and it was hard. I didn’t think I’d have much trouble finding gluten-free options, but at one high-end restaurant, the waiter was incredibly rude and told me they had nothing for me. I felt embarrassed and uncomfortable as my colleagues stared at me. I ended up ordering a plain veggie salad with olive oil on the side, but I left that dinner feeling defeated and hungry.
Throughout that trip, I relied heavily on the gluten-free snacks I had packed—protein bars, jerky, and oatmeal packets. It wasn’t until the very last day that I found a place serving gluten-free pizza. Let me tell you—it was the best thing I had eaten all week!
If you’re traveling with Celiac disease, I want you to know that while it can be challenging, it’s absolutely doable with the right preparation! Here are my top tips:
1. Research, Research, Research
1. Research, Research, Research
Before you book that flight or hotel, take time to research gluten-free options in your destination. Look up local restaurants, grocery stores, and gluten-free dining apps like Find Me Gluten Free. You’ll feel more at ease knowing there are safe spots nearby.
Some of my favorite Celiac-friendly travel destinations? San Diego, CA, and New Smyrna Beach, FL - both have amazing gluten-free dining options, and the staff at restaurants were incredibly helpful in making my eating experience stress-free!
2. Pack Smart with Celiac-Friendly Essentials
Your travel bag should always include:
- Gluten-free snacks (I love Chomps beef sticks, Aloha Protein Bars, and Purely Elizabeth Oatmeal from Thrive Market)
- A translation card (if traveling internationally) explaining your dietary needs - you can grab them from The Celiac Space
- Digestive enzymes (just in case!)
- Your go-to vitamins & supplements
Want a full list of travel must-haves to help you pack smarter and travel stress-free? Grab my free Travel Essentials Guide. The guide is packed with tips, strategies, journaling prompts, and resources to help you travel smarter, save money, and create unforgettable experiences - whether for business, leisure, or both!
3. Speak Up & Be Clear About Your Needs
One of the biggest mistakes I see among newly diagnosed Celiacs is not speaking up for themselves. I get it - it’s uncomfortable to ask over and over again if a restaurant can accommodate you. But it’s so important to be your own advocate. If a restaurant seems uncertain about cross-contamination or you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut and find another place. Something super helpful for me after my diagnosis was downloading the app The Celiac Space - it helped me learn how to be an advocate for myself plus it offers amazing resources!
4. Book a Stay with a Kitchen
4. Book a Stay with a Kitchen
Hotels are great, but having access to a kitchen can be a game-changer. Opt for an Airbnb or hotel with a kitchenette so you can prepare some of your own meals safely.
5. Lean on Faith During Travel
Traveling can be overwhelming, but I’ve experienced time and time again that God always provides. He’s placed people in my path exactly when I needed help - whether it was navigating an unfamiliar airport or finding a last-minute safe meal option. I always pray over my travels - asking for safety, kindness in those I encounter, and no delays.
Faith-Fueled Travel: Navigating Adventures with Celiac Disease
Traveling with Celiac disease can feel intimidating, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can enjoy every adventure without fear. Give yourself grace, plan ahead, and trust that God will guide you every step of the way.
Want to travel smarter, save money, and make every trip as stress-free as possible while having fun and making memories?
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