Four Tips for Flying with Food Allergies

Have a long flight coming up? Deal with one or many food allergies? Follow these tips to make sure you don’t go hungry.

Call Ahead (Way Ahead)

Regardless of what your food allergy is, it’s best to inform your airline of it ahead of time, but 24-48 hours ahead of time won’t cut it. Call your airline at least a week in advance so they can properly prepare for your flight. Many will be more than happy to accommodate you if you give them enough information to do so in a timely manner. Some will even help you craft your own meal that fits your individual needs, even if it’s not something they might normally have onboard.

Bring Your Own

But even the best-laid plans go awry. Even if you’ve had a lengthy discussion with your airline about what you can and cannot eat, something could happen and your meal might not make it onboard. Always be prepared. Pick up some food items at the airport before your flight or bring something from home, so you’re assured you won’t go hungry during a long flight.

Be Flexible and Polite

You have a food allergy and people are doing their best to accommodate you — don’t get mad if you’re not exactly eating a 5-star meal. Yes, you might’ve really wanted a gluten-free version of that pasta your seat mate is enjoying, but sometimes a salad is just going to have to do. If you can tell the airline staff and cabin crew are doing their best to help you out, be polite and grateful. A good attitude can go a long way and they’ll be even more likely to continue helping you if you’re courteous (like possibly “finding” an extra meal in first class that fits your dietary needs).

Bring an EpiPen

If you know you need one, bring one. It’s that simple. You shouldn’t be traveling without one anyway.