Eating well on the road is tough for any traveler, but especially for those who have food allergies or other dietary considerations. Today’s airports are improving when it comes to providing gluten free meals and snacks, but can still be loaded up with salt, sugar, and calories. Is it possible to eat well when traveling?

Why consider the car?

There is a whole lot of country out there that isn’t serviced by major airports, train or bus routes, and this is where we often find the best hikes, bike trails, beaches, b&b’s and campgrounds. Not only does an old-fashioned road trip open up unexplored territory, it also gives you a little more control over what you’re consuming. With a little prep work, a few modifications, and a taste for adventure, your next road trip could be the most delicious one yet!

Tip 1: Bring a cooler

Yep, they’re bulky but don’t assume you’ll be able to get your favorite gluten free nutritional shakes at every corner store on your route. Plus, most gluten free breads do better when refrigerated, and who doesn’t love a good road sandwich? Add some almond milk, yogurt, and gluten free granola to your stash, or even throw in a couple of jars of this Snickerdoodle Overnight Proats Recipe!

Tip 2: Call ahead

If you are staying in a b&b or hotel, give them a ring ahead of time and ask if there will be gluten free items available at breakfast. Most will be more-than-happy to accommodate this request if they don’t already, but it’s better if they know you are coming.

Tip 3: Stash some non-perishables

Easy to carry, non-perishable and nutritious items like nuts, protein bars, dried fruit or popcorn for those times when there really is nothing else to ­eat are just generally a good call.

Tip 4: Make it a family affair

Gluten free options really are delicious and easy to come by. As you’re working to diligently plan your meals for a few days or weeks away, consider asking your travel buddies to join you on your gluten free adventure. It’s a lot easier when you don’t have to worry about whether or not that almond butter knife suffered cross contamination for the sake of your partner’s non-gluten free road sandwich. They may be happy to go gluten free with you on the road when they realize just how trying it can be.

Tip 5: Try to find some local fare flare

Eating out is one of the best parts of traveling! So whether you’re scoping for those famous corn fritters,on the hunt for some blueberry pie, or want to dig into your first native Maine lobster roll, even our more rural restaurants and cafes are becoming savvy to the need for gluten free options. Our advice? Be open, and bring backup.   Happy road tripping!