Our recent feature on Where to Buy & Eat Gluten Free, Celiac Safe for the Holidays in Charlotte was so well-read and appreciated that we’re back with our favorite local GF experts, Nat, the @alwaysaglutenfreegal and Amber, @glutenfree_clt_and_beyond, with their reco’s on how to navigate the Holiday challenges of travel and parties.
Read on and follow their IGs for their excellent suggestions on how to be safe as you enjoy the Season!
Gluten-Free Travel Tips
From Amber, @glutenfree_clt_and_beyond
Air Travel
- Pack food and snacks. I like to take a frozen water bottle to keep things cold. As long as it’s frozen TSA will let it through. And then you have water to drink when it thaws.
- I get a GF wrap made at Publix to take. They will change gloves, use clean paper, clean utensils and use fresh ingredients if you ask.
- Book your gluten-free airline meal, if applicable, at least 48 hours before traveling.
- Carry a celiac transaction card if going out of the country. Go to https://equaleats.com/ to order.
- Use Google translate for menus and for communication.
Travel in General
- Pack snacks/food. Focus on protein. I like to take a loaf of bread and powdered PB with me so that I can make a sandwich whenever needed.
- Research your destination area if you are not familiar to find grocery stores and restaurants locally.
- Use Google and GF food apps to find safe restaurants. Call restaurants if needed and make reservations in advance so you have a plan.
- Use these apps: FIG Food Scanner & Discovery | Fig App | FMGF Find Me Gluten Free App | Atly Gluten Free
Traveling Gluten Free — Near or Far: Tips from Nat, the @alwaysaglutenfreegal
Traveling with celiac takes additional effort, but it doesn’t have to take the joy out of your trip. With the right prep, you can feel safe, confident, and excited rather than stressed before you even get to your destination.
- Pack your own food & snacks — you never know what airport or small town you may get stuck in.
- When flying or renting a car, I always wipe down everything prior to ensure there is no cross-contamination.
- Research your destination ahead of time using FIG, Find Me Gluten Free, and Atly & make reservations so you can guarantee safe eats on your trip.
- I pack all my favorite essentials — activated charcoal, nausea sweets, and my obi heating pad — I always prepare for the worst, just in case I get “glutened.”
Tips on Navigating Holiday Gatherings
From Amber, @glutenfree_clt_and_beyond
- Communicate your needs in advance – Ask the host about their safety precautions and ingredients used in dishes
- Offer to bring your own food or dishes that you know will be safe for you.
- Serve yourself first at any gathering to prevent cross-contamination.
- For extended stays, bring your own food and label GF.
- Offer to help cook meals, so you know precautions are taken.
- Most importantly, advocate for yourself and show gratitude to those making efforts to keep you safe!
Staying Safe While Staying Festive: From Nat, the @alwaysaglutenfreegal
- Eat something before you go, so you’re not starving if options are limited.
- Bring a festive, celiac-safe dish or local bites — but it’s important to place your GF dish away from gluten items and bring your own serving utensils.
- Purchase these allergy sticks off amazon, they’re a game changer.
- Ask the host about the menu and any shared items like cutting boards, fryers, or toasters.
- If alcohol is involved, stick to brands you trust or bring your own.
- Give yourself permission to say “no thank you” without explaining yourself.
- Make the decision that is best for you. Advocate for yourself with confidence, and remember that gratitude and boundaries can exist at the same time.
- Remember, Celiac may shape the way we move through travel, holidays, and gatherings, but it doesn’t take away our ability to enjoy them fully and intentionally. Charlotte continues to prove that support, connection, and safer experiences are always within reach.
