Travel

One of the greatest things about travelling is the excitement of experiencing new places, cultures, environments, and new food. Unfortunately when traveling with food allergies, these experiences can also bring new risks. It’s hard to anticipate the situations you may encounter while away, making it important to be prepared before you go. Keep in mind key strategies for staying safe while on your trip so there are no allergy-related surprises.

• Take the Necessary Precautions
  

When it comes to food allergy travel tips, the most important is to always carry at least two doses of epinephrine and to make sure to have them with you at all times. Bring extra auto-injectors, since they may not be available in the country you are visiting.

• Managing on an Airplane
  

Contact your airline to inquire about their allergy policy before you book your ticket and ask what foods are served. Advise a crew member about your food allergies at the boarding gate and on the plane. Some airlines allow you to pre-board and wipe down the seats, tray tables and armrests. Make sure you have enough safe snacks with you to last the duration of the flight. Eating airline food is not recommended.

• Do your Research
  

Search for key information that will help keep you safe such as what foods and ingredients are commonly served in your travel destination. Research the country's food labelling requirements, since food labels usually reflect the allergens that are most common in that country.  Find out what the emergency number is (911 is only used in Canada & U.S.) and where the closest hospital would be located. Look into having key terms, phrases, and your food allergies translated into the native language.

• Wear MedicAlert^® identification
  

Communicating the risks of anaphylaxis can be an issue while away from home, especially when foreign languages are spoken. Some countries have a very low prevalence of allergies and therefore low awareness about how to treat them. MedicAlert ^® identification can help communicate your allergies, since it is a recognized product around the world.

• Educate Those Around You
  

Whether it’s a travel companion or new acquaintance, let them know about your allergies and how they can help in an emergency. This can help ease the pressure of trying risky meals, and you will know that support is nearby.

• The MedicAlert logo and symbol have been registered trademarks in Canada since 1961 and are recognized by health care professionals around the world.
  

• Paramedics from anywhere in the world can call the MedicAlert 24-hour Emergency Hotline and get your health record translated into the language of their choice.
  

• There are allergy organizations similar to Anaphylaxis Canada in many areas around the world.