Tips for Traveling with Dietary Restrictions

By Ariane Bilodeau, Copywriter/editor, and health & food blogger

The New Year has just started and it’s time to think about those great trips we’ll be making this year. Here are my top tips to travel without a worry despite several dietary restrictions.

On the plane

While it’s possible to ask (often at least 24 hours ahead) for a gluten-free and/or vegan meal, it’s sometimes best to bring your own lunch or favourite ready-to-eat meal (making sure you’re not carrying any liquid over 100 ml) and tons of snacks!

Eating out

To avoid having to walk around an unfamiliar city with an empty stomach, it’s best to do a bit of research before leaving! Happy Cow will help many vegetarians and vegans find great restaurants to try, or even determine which neighbourhoods would be most suitable. If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, you might need to contact a few restaurants to find out where it will be safe – and great! – for you to eat.

Eating in

You have access to a kitchen or kitchenette? Now’s the time to save some money and discover new products!

• Bring non-perishable food items from home if you feel you’ll have a hard time finding some on your trip.

• If you’re on a road trip, make sure you have an ice box and some ice packs. This way, you’ll be able to stock up when you can.

• Bring plastic bags and containers for your snacks, sandwiches and leftovers.

• When staying at a hostel, have a look at what people left for grabs and don’t forget to pay it forward.

Finally, make sure you always have a plan B: protein powder/bars and powdered peanut butter are excellent life savers.

Bon voyage!

Next: The B12 Vitamin Cheat Sheet