There are some simple steps to ensure that travel for gluten free eating is simple and stress free. Health coach Erika Schlick, who creates gluten-free dining guides, says that it’s all about research and preparation to make travel stress free

Travel can bring a lot of uncertainty and apprehension for people with gluten-free diets. From the moment you arrive at the airport, to the plane journey, to arriving in a new city, there’s always the worry that there won’t be any dietary options available for you.

However, there are some simple steps to ensure that travel for gluten free eating is simple and stress free. Health coach Erika Schlick, who creates gluten-free dining guides, says that it’s all about research and preparation to make travel stress free.

“Traveling as a celiac or someone with dietary restrictions can be a little tricky,” she says, “but fortunately, it is getting a lot easier with some planning and knowing what snacks to bring and pack.” Below, she outlines her top tips.

Bring Your Own Snacks

“A quick snack can be a lifesaver on long travel days or when you’re out sightseeing,” Schlick says. Energy bars are one of her top recommendations, which can be carried in a backpack or purse, and work as a filling snack to keep you going until you can sit down for a proper meal.

“I particularly love blueberry, chocolate, or lemon poppyseed,” she says. “They can be a perfect on-the-go breakfast with some coffee or a snack to take on a day of exploring.” Her next pick is chocolate-dipped nuts — especially almonds — which she describes as her “guilty pleasure.” “Almonds are the perfect craving when you want something sweet, but want a healthier protein.”

If you’re looking for something a bit more savory, Schlick recommends a collagen bar, which can keep hunger at bay. “They are small but powerful,” she adds. “One of those bars can satisfy hunger for hours. If you put them in the fridge or freezer, they tend to hold up even better. I always have one in my purse for when I feel like I am crashing and need a snack.”

Register Your Dietary Requirements

This is an absolute must for long-haul flights. It might be the last thing on your mind when you’re getting ready for a trip, but nothing ruins that pre-vacation buzz than finding out there’s quite literally nothing on board that you can eat. The ‘hanger’ will kick in, and you’ll be off to a bad start before you know it.

“Always make sure you tell your airline of your dietary requirements so there’s a meal on board for you when you’re thousands of feet in the air with no other options,” Schlick says. She also recommends you plan ahead as far as possible. “If you’re staying in a hotel, give them a call to check if there are options, or request that provisions are made for your stay.” If you have any day trips or tours planned where food is included, make sure to notify them ahead of time, too.

Research the Area

“One of the most frustrating things about traveling as a gluten-free foodie is parading up and down streets of restaurants looking for something with options, and ones that suit your craving,” Schlick says. Nevertheless, she’s become something of an expert in finding the best gluten-free spots in cities across the United States, and further afield in Europe, too. She has a whole section on her blog dedicated to gluten free food guides, covering cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago. You should dedicate a little bit of time before your trip to look at what’s around your hotel and any sightseeing spots you’re planning on visiting. “By finding restaurants for each day and pre-booking them, it will not only give a bit more structure to your days, but also remove the stress and uncertainty of trying to find somewhere to eat every day.”

Consider Self-Catered Accommodation

“Having a dietary requirement is always a learning process, and eating out can be a bit of a stressful experience for some people,” Schlick says. “You may feel better cooking your own food and sticking to your own routine.”

Celiacs may also experience general sensitivity when it comes to food, and drastic changes in diet can be uncomfortable and cause bloating. Self-catered accommodation is a great option for people who don’t want to disrupt their dietary routine or eating habits too much, whether it’s an Airbnb, apartment at a resort, or something a bit more unusual like a glamping pod.

Spend a little bit more time planning to save yourself lots of hassle when you’re traveling, and enjoy all the gluten free indulgence your heart desires.

Opinion

In an era where authenticity reigns supreme, many travellers want to get off the beaten track or live like a local, skip the “touristy attractions” and seek out insider spots or hidden gems.

We want to immerse ourselves in a culture and experience it in its most genuine form. If you consider yourself one such person, you probably also want to avoid looking like a foreign tourist; someone who is an outsider, who doesn’t belong.

Naturally, in some destinations, it’s impossible to fully assimilate. No matter what I wear, I’ll always stick out in Nepal or Mumbai as a white-skinned, blonde-haired traveller.

But for many multicultural cities around the world, there are ways to fit in with the locals or at least, avoid looking quite so much like a lost tourist.

Do your research

Aside from ethnicity, clothing is the number one thing that sets tourists out from residents. So, take time to research what kind of clothing locals wear. Ask people who have recently visited, read online travel forums or find fashion content written by local journalists or bloggers. Do people tend to dress conservatively or are they happy to bare skin? Is it a fashion-forward place or are they a few years behind the trends?

Make space in that suitcase

Long days walking around plus limited suitcase space often prompts people to leave trendier items or accessories behind. Instead, we opt for outfits that are comfortable and functional. Unfortunately, your trusty walking shoes, comfy jeans and backpack won’t help you fit in around most cities.

To avoid looking like a tourist, make space in your suitcase for trendy items that may not be super useful but look great. This can be as simple as a nice pair of shoes, a jacket that isn’t warm but is chic, and an accessory like a nice purse or scarf.

Invest in fashionable and functional items

Additionally, you can also invest in items that are fashionable and functional, like a slick pair of sneakers with good support, a new, warm coat, or a trendy bum bag (yes, they do exist). These items may be more expensive but if you travel often, they are a great investment and a shortcut to looking less like a frazzled tourist.

Avoid ‘tourist accessories’

The cliche of a tourist holding out a printed map is outdated thanks to smartphones. However, many accessories act like a beacon that declares “foreigner”. We’re talking big DSLR cameras or iPhones on neck straps, bulky backpacks and passport pouches wrapped around the waist or hanging from your neck. Oddly, the same goes for white, shiny sunscreen (opt for a subtle gel-based sunblock) and hats or caps that are obviously from another country, or geared towards tourists.

Shop while you’re there

One fun way to fit in with the local look is to fit in some shopping at your destination. Perusing boutiques and stores is a great way to get among residents, find a travel souvenir you’ll actually use after your travels and find an item or two that helps you fit in.

However, be wary of stores that are just catering to tourists; these shops either sell brands or items most locals can’t afford or items with the destination name/attractions printed on them. From these things, you must run like the wind. But if you are determined to buy that Hard Rock Cafe Sydney T-shirt or “I

Keeping the valuables safe as well as having an emergency plan is essential to stay safe while holidaying abroad, especially for elderly travellers.

Travel experts from Panache Cruises shared their top 10 tips on how holidaymakers can stay safe this summer. Some of their most crucial recommendations for senior travellers include using safety mobile apps, sharing the location with family, knowing where the local hospital and police stations are and having the emergency phone numbers for each country.

1. Inform people of the location

Before going on holiday, travellers should always let friends and family know they are going away and keep them updated with any changes.

Keeping in regular contact and having the mobile’s live location app turned on is essential so people at home know where they are at all times.

2. Create an emergency plan

Being prepared for an emergency is key but this doesn’t have to be complicated. Travellers could simply familiarise themselves with the local hospital, police station and other useful spots in the town or city.

It could also be useful to “learn key phrases such as ‘I need help’ or ‘ring for an ambulance’ in the local language as well as the emergency phone numbers,” the experts explained.

3. Protect valuables

Thieves often target holidaymakers so it is advised not to pack anything expensive or of sentimental value unless is really necessary.

Travellers should also keep items like credit cards, local currency, passports and mobile phones hidden “in a secure bag out of sight at all times”.

Secure bags are great for senior travellers and these can be purchased on Amazon for less than £10.

4. Protect themselves against crime

Holidaymakers can be safe from local crime and tourist scams by researching the destination beforehand. Read up on travel guides and news sites, and talk to friends and family who have visited the area to learn about any potential risks.

5. Book solo accommodation

When travelling alone, it is recommended tourists always book solo rooms. Although shared accommodation such as hostels is more common among young travellers, seniors may be tempted to stay there to save money, however, the travel experts warned against this practice.

6. Choose accommodation with caution

Similarly, checking that the hotel is in a safe location and close to public transport and restaurants is key, even when travelling with family and friends.

“Travellers should also check the accommodation’s check-in timings to not spend time waiting around in an unknown environment,” they added.

7. Travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential to protect tourists from unforeseen events and interruption insurance “can help recover damages from issues such as weather and natural disasters”.

“Medical insurance can cover unexpected costs, while luggage insurance can help recover losses from theft or delays,” the experts added.

8. Study the local language

Learning a few words in the local language can be handy, especially if travellers need to ask for help.

9. Be respectful of local culture

“To reduce vulnerability and avoid drawing attention” it is advised travellers dress “appropriately” to respect the local culture. “Some countries may require hair to be covered up and not too much skin to be on the show,” for instance.

10. Never tell strangers if they are travelling alone

Finally, solo travellers “should never share too much with strangers” or they risk “becoming a target”. Instead, they should say that friends are “waiting up ahead or back in the hotel room”.

Begin with creating a list of the things you can’t leave home without.

If you want to make the most of your next trip, consider adopting a minimalist approach to your travel. By bringing only what you need, choosing versatile items, and opting for lightweight and small items, you can travel comfortably and enjoy your experiences.

Here are some tips to help you think like a minimalist:

Stay in guesthouses or hostels

Instead of luxurious hotels, consider staying in guesthouses or hostels. These simple accommodations can be more affordable and give you the basics, allowing you to enjoy the experience of your trip without unnecessary luxuries.

Just take what you need

Create a list of essential items you cannot leave home without, such as your visa, wallet, phone, and a few changes of clothes. Avoid packing too much or bringing items you don’t need.

Choose clothes that can be worn in different ways

Pack clothes that can be styled in different ways, allowing you to wear them more than once. For example, choose clothes that can be dressed up or down, and pack a thin scarf that can be used as a wrap.

Use a carry-on bag or vacation backpack

Opt for a lightweight backpack or carry-on bag instead of a big, heavy bag. This will make it easier to get around and fit things into small areas.

Use packing containers

Use packing containers to organize your clothes, toiletries, and other items more efficiently, and pack items like jackets and sweaters that take up a lot of space.

Make a plan

Before you start packing, make a checklist of the items you need to bring. This will ensure you don’t pack too much and don’t leave anything important behind.

Use travel-sized toiletries

Use travel-sized toiletries to save space and weight, instead of packing full-sized bottles.