Travelling with allergies requires planning, risk assessment and clear communication. Whether you are managing a tree nut allergy, coeliac disease, lactose intolerance or multiple food sensitivities, the core principles are the same: preparation reduces exposure risk and increases confidence.
Below is a practical framework to help you travel safely and with fewer unknowns.
Pre-Travel Planning: Reduce Risk Before You Leave
Effective allergy management starts well before departure.
1. Consult your GP or specialist
If you have a diagnosed food allergy — particularly one that carries a risk of anaphylaxis — ensure your prescription is current and your emergency action plan is up to date.
2. Carry sufficient medication
Bring more than you expect to need. This typically includes:
- Adrenaline auto-injectors (e.g. EpiPen)
- Antihistamines
- Inhalers (if relevant)
- Steroid medication if prescribed
Pack medication in hand luggage and keep it accessible.
3. Research your destination
Understand:
- Local cuisine and common ingredients
- Allergen labelling laws (these vary significantly by country)
- Access to pharmacies and medical facilities
In the EU, allergen labelling is standardised. Outside Europe, regulations differ and precautionary labelling may be inconsistent.
4. Arrange comprehensive travel insurance
Declare your allergy if required. Failure to disclose pre-existing conditions can invalidate a claim.
How Can Allergy Translation Cards Help Me?
Language barriers are one of the most significant risk factors for allergic travellers.
Allergy translation cards clearly explain:
- Your specific allergen(s)
- The severity of your reaction
- The need to avoid cross-contamination
- What to do in an emergency
These cards can be shown to:
- Restaurant staff
- Airline cabin crew
- Hotel kitchens
- Tour operators
A well-written card is far more precise than relying on conversational language skills. It reduces ambiguity and ensures the seriousness of your condition is understood.
For example, distinguishing between “I prefer not to eat nuts” and “I will require emergency treatment if I consume nuts” is critical. Translation cards remove that grey area.
Digital versions stored on your phone are useful, but a printed, laminated copy is advisable in case of low connectivity or battery failure.
How to Manage Tree Nut Allergies While Travelling
Tree nut allergies present particular challenges due to widespread use in global cuisines.
1. Understand regional risk patterns
- Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines often incorporate almonds, pistachios and walnuts.
- South and Southeast Asian dishes may use cashews or ground nuts in sauces.
- Desserts worldwide frequently contain hidden nut ingredients.
2. Clarify cross-contamination practices
Even if a dish does not contain nuts, shared fryers, chopping boards or oils can pose a risk.
Ask specifically:
- Is this prepared in the same area as nuts?
- Is the oil shared?
- Are desserts made in-house?
3. Avoid buffet environments
Buffets increase cross-contact risk due to shared utensils and food proximity.
4. Carry safe snacks
Bringing sealed, safe foods reduces reliance on uncertain environments — particularly during long excursions or transport delays.
5. Be cautious with packaged foods
Labelling standards vary. “May contain” statements are not globally regulated. When in doubt, avoid.
Flying with a Food Allergy
Air travel presents a controlled but enclosed environment. Preparation and communication are essential.
1. Notify the airline in advance
Most airlines allow you to declare allergies during booking or via special assistance requests. Policies vary:
- Some airlines will make cabin announcements.
- Some may suspend nut service.
- Others cannot guarantee an allergen-free cabin.
You should not assume a nut-free environment unless explicitly confirmed.
2. Carry your medication in hand luggage
Never check essential medication. Keep auto-injectors accessible, not in the overhead locker.
3. Bring your own food
Airline catering cannot always guarantee allergen-free meals, even when pre-ordered.
4. Wipe down tray tables and armrests
Surface contact reactions are rare but cross-contact risk exists. Sanitising wipes reduce uncertainty.
5. Inform cabin crew discreetly
Upon boarding, make crew aware of your allergy and where your medication is located.
Accommodation Considerations
Hotels and self-catering options require different approaches.
Hotels:
- Inform the property before arrival.
- Clarify breakfast buffet arrangements.
- Request ingredient lists where possible.
Self-catering:
- Inspect kitchens for previous nut use.
- Clean surfaces thoroughly.
- Purchase sealed, clearly labelled products.
Eating Out Safely Abroad
Adopt a structured approach:
- Choose reputable, well-reviewed establishments.
- Avoid peak times where staff may rush communication.
- Speak directly to a manager or chef where possible.
- Avoid vague reassurances such as “It should be fine.”
If staff appear uncertain or dismissive, choose another venue. See more articles on food safety while abroad.
Emergency Preparedness Abroad
Even with meticulous planning, accidental exposure can occur.
You should:
- Know the local emergency number (e.g. 112 across the EU).
- Carry a written emergency plan.
- Ensure travel companions understand how to use your auto-injector.
- Consider wearing medical identification jewellery.
Prompt administration of adrenaline is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Do not delay treatment if symptoms escalate.
Travelling with Children with Allergies
Additional steps may include:
- Pre-boarding requests for extra cleaning time.
- Child-friendly allergy translation cards.
- Educating the child on not sharing food.
- Informing tour leaders or childcare providers.
Routine and clarity reduce anxiety for both child and parent. See more articles and advice on travelling with children.
Get in touch
If you require more information or advice on travelling with allergies, visit your nearest TMB clinic or get in contact on +35312715200.
Cover image credit: https://unsplash.com/@diana_pole