4 Tips for Dining Out While Traveling

How many of you like to travel, but you have special dietary needs and/or restrictions? Staying safe on the road is a lot easier than you think! Here are some tips to keep in mind when dining on the road!

01. Ask the server or chef

Did you know that most restaurants will accommodate a gluten-free, dairy-free diet if you ask?

Start by asking if they have a gluten-free menu. A lot of places will either have a dedicated menu for food allergies or they’ll indicate it right on the menu. Check the menu for symbols stating gluten-free, vegan, etc.. Sometimes at the bottom, they will tell you what they can accommodate.

Be warned! You can always tell if your server is educated when it comes to dietary restrictions by that look on their face when you ask. If you get that deer-in-the-headlights look, run!

Most servers these days will go check with the chef, so it’s pretty safe out there. And remember at those higher-end restaurants, the chef is almost always willing to accommodate your needs.

02. Build a safe meal

You can look at the main entrées that they offer on the menu and pretty much pick and choose your own meal. Perhaps there are mashed potatoes with salmon and green beans with fried chicken. Ask for the salmon with green beans!

03. Choose a healthy beverage

Choosing a healthy beverage is also part of the plan. Remember water with lemon is always great. If you’re going to do an adult beverage stay away from beer! Perhaps wine, Tito’s vodka, or tequila is always safe. 😉 You can always ask your bartender what alcohol is gluten-free, or you can Google that too!

04. When in doubt, pack your own food

If you’re traveling by car, that’s super easy! You can always pack your own lunch with road snacks in a cooler! Some of my favorites are Simple Mills crackers, apples, gluten-free organic free-range lunch meat, dairy-free cheese choices, nuts, etc.. These options will keep your belly full and away from temptation at the mini-mart.

Stay safe people! And happy travels!