Travel

Before you go

Planning ahead is everything when traveling with celiac. Research your destination, identify safe restaurants, and pack more food than you think you'll need. See our road trip essentials and international travel guide for destination-specific advice.

Airports and flying

Pack more food than you think you'll need. Airport food is unreliable, and delays happen. TSA allows solid food—pack sandwiches, snacks, even full meals. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security.

For longer flights, consider calling the airline ahead of time about gluten-free meal options, but always bring backups. Airline meals are notoriously unreliable for celiacs. See our guide on navigating airline meals for more detailed strategies.

Pack snacks that travel well: nuts, seeds, gluten-free granola bars, rice cakes, and individually wrapped items. Keep some in your carry-on and some in checked luggage in case of delays.

Hotels and accommodations

Request a room with a microwave and mini fridge when booking. This gives you options for storing and heating safe food. Bring your own dishes if you're concerned about shared kitchen equipment or cross contact from previous guests.

Grocery delivery apps are your friend. Many hotels are near grocery stores, and services like Instacart can deliver safe food to your room. Research grocery stores near your hotel before you arrive.

For longer stays, consider vacation rentals with kitchens. This gives you full control over your food preparation. See our guide on staying safe in vacation rentals for kitchen safety tips.

Road trips

Road trips give you more control. Pack a cooler with safe foods, bring a small cutting board and knife, and research safe restaurants along your route. See our road trip survival guide for a complete packing list.

Gas stations and convenience stores are challenging. Stick to packaged items you recognize, or bring everything from home. Don't rely on finding safe food at random stops.

International travel

Research celiac awareness in your destination country. Some countries have excellent labeling laws and celiac awareness; others don't. Learn key phrases in the local language to explain your needs. See our international travel guide for country-specific advice.

Consider bringing a translation card that explains celiac disease and your dietary needs in the local language. Many celiac organizations provide these for free.

Family gatherings while traveling

Offer to bring a dish you know is safe. Arrive before the chaos starts so you can plate your food first. Don't expect family to understand cross contact—bring backups. See our guide on safely dining at friends' homes for more strategies.

If you're staying with family, consider bringing your own toaster, cutting board, and condiments. It might feel awkward, but it's better than getting sick.

Mass while traveling

If you receive Communion, plan ahead. Call the parish before you arrive to explain your situation. Many parishes are familiar with celiac accommodations. See our Communion options guide for how to communicate with a new parish and what to bring.

Consider bringing your own low-gluten host in a sealed container. Some celiacs keep a small travel kit with a pyx and hosts for this purpose. See our guide on traveling as a Catholic with celiac for more detailed advice.

If you typically receive from the chalice, that's often the simplest option when traveling. Most parishes offer the Precious Blood, and you don't need special arrangements.

Special situations

Cruises

Cruises can be challenging but many lines now offer gluten-free options. Call ahead, speak with the dining staff when you board, and always have backup snacks. See our cruise ship survival guide for detailed strategies.

Theme parks

Many theme parks now have dedicated gluten-free options. Research ahead of time, speak with guest services, and bring snacks. See our guide on navigating theme parks for park-specific advice.

Summer camps

If you're sending a child with celiac to camp, work closely with the camp staff. Provide detailed information about their needs and safe foods. See our summer camp guide for a complete checklist.

Emergency backup plan

Always have a backup plan. Pack enough safe food to get you through at least one extra day. Keep a list of safe restaurants in your destination. Know where the nearest grocery store is. And remember: it's okay to be the person who brings their own food everywhere. Your health matters more than anyone's opinion.