We are halfway through November. Days are getting shorter, classes seem longer and the cold streak has me thinking about sunshine and the beach! It might seem far off, but Spring Break is closer than you think! And it can be one of the most exciting times in college—a chance to relax, explore, and make memories with friends. But if you have food allergies, a little extra planning goes a long way toward keeping your trip safe and stress-free. Here are some tips to get ready!

1. Do your research early.
Now is the perfect time to start looking and talking to friends about Spring Break. I recommend playing an active role in the planning. That way, you can have a say on where you go, which means you can be do some research and look into allergy-friendly destinations and hotels. Many resorts and airlines list allergen policies online. If you’re flying, call ahead to ask about snacks served onboard and whether they can accommodate allergies.

2. Pack smart.
Always keep your emergency medications (like epinephrine auto-injectors) in your carry-on, not your checked bag. I like this Slim Running Belt because it allows me to carry my meds on me, without having to put everything in my pockets or carry and extra bag (In addition to my Auvi-Q, I also bring a 20mL dose of liquid Benadryl in one of these plastic droppers along with my asthma inhaler). I can wear the running belt under my shirt and it doesn’t show. I also pack a mini “safe snack kit” with sealed foods I know I can eat, in case options are limited.

3. Communicate clearly.
Don’t hesitate to speak up when dining out. Learn how to say your allergens in the local language if you’re traveling abroad, and bring allergy translation cards. If you’re traveling with friends, make sure they know what to do in case of an emergency. Remember to take your Chef’s Allergy Card whenever you dine out. Give to the manager/server and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself to ensure they can accommodate you.

4. Wipe it down.
Airplanes, buses, and rental cars can have residue from allergens. Bring wipes and clean your seat area or steering wheel before settling in. I usually throw a couple packs of these Wet Wipes in my carry on.

5. Relax and enjoy—but stay aware.
You deserve to have fun and feel safe. With the right prep, you can enjoy beach days, sightseeing, and all the late-night adventures of spring break without worrying about allergens sneaking up on you.

Safe travels, and remember: preparation doesn’t ruin the fun—it makes sure you actually get to enjoy it.

_{As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.}

• Print
• Mail
• ShareCopied to clipboard