Over the past five years, my gluten-free journey has taken me all over the United States. With so much domestic travel on the agenda, I’ve definitely learned a thing or two about how to meet my gluten-free needs, no matter where I’m going. Here are five tips to help you get ready for a happy and healthy gluten-free trip.
Gluten-Free Travel Tip #1: Prepare for the Journey
Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking the train, make sure you take enough healthy gluten-free options to get you through the travel portion of your trip. If you’re flying, you may get lucky with an in-flight gluten-free snack or a meal in the airport, but always be sure you have a backup. Flights and routes can change at a moment’s notice, and you don’t want to be left without a good option. Of course, the same goes for car trips. It’s never fun to go hungry throughout a long trip, only to arrive at your destination grouchy and ravenous.
Gluten-Free Travel Tip #2: Pack but Don’t Overpack
While it’s always a good idea to pack snacks (see above), I would never suggest packing an entire extra suitcase filled with gluten-free food. Wherever you travel in the U.S., you can rest assured that most supermarkets and natural food stores carry the gluten-free brands that you trust. I’m always relieved to find Udi’s Gluten Free granola wherever I shop, since it’s a filling breakfast I can count on.
Gluten-Free Travel Tip #3: Shop at Local Markets
Though I love a well-stocked supermarket, I’m also a huge fan of visiting local markets when I travel. From New York City to Detroit to Seattle, I’ve found that nearly every local market I’ve visited across the country features at least one gluten-free stand. Not only do I get to try a new local treat, but I can also talk directly with the person who made it. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about ingredients and preparation, as well as a good chance to learn more about gluten-free options in town.
Gluten-Free Travel Tip #4: Connect With Local Groups
Most cities and towns across the U.S. are home to at least one gluten-free support group or social group. Connect with these groups online before you go, and let their resources help with your trip planning. Support groups tend to be excellent sources of lists of local places to eat and shop gluten-free. Social groups are great resources for local events and meals, as well as making a new gluten-free friend (GFF) or two.
Gluten-Free Travel Tip #5: Get Your Travel Companions on Board
If you’re traveling solo, you’re in luck, since you only have to worry about making the right gluten-free choices on your own. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or coworkers, though, get them on board before you depart. Give your travel companions the basics of your gluten-free needs and how you plan to address them. Be sure to emphasize the health aspect of your gluten-free diet. If you really want to win your travel companions over, put a fun spin on the situation. If you mapped out a terrific local market or highly rated restaurant with great options for gluten-free and gluten-ful eaters, you’re sure to get everyone on board.
Wherever your wanderlust takes you, remember that a little preparation goes a long way. Try not to sweat domestic travel, and have a happy and healthy gluten-free trip!
Learn more about living gluten free! Visit http://udisglutenfree.com/community
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Udi’s Gluten Free. The opinions and text are all mine.
