How to Travel with a Peanut Allergy

Before taking off, learn how dishes at your travel destination are often prepared, what ingredients are commonly used and where hidden allergens might be lurking. 

Fortunately, unlike many other food intolerances, peanut allergies are widely understood worldwide - so menus will often be clear about foods containing peanuts.

You probably know the foods you need to avoid at home, but foods abroad can be a little trickier. You should not be afraid to eat adventurously with food allergies, but you do need to be prepared. If you are looking forward to enjoying a particular food abroad, look online first and do some research.

If you are a keen foodie and want to experiment with the local cuisine, a lot of cities have food tours available. Many of these are run by companies that have English-speaking staff, who are familiar with the most common food allergies.

A peanut allergy is one of the most common food allergies in the world. Peanuts are also commonly used in dishes, particularly in Asian countries.

Here's a list of destinations most likely to serve food with peanuts:

1. Myanmar
2. China
3. Indonesia
4. Malaysia
5. Thailand
6. Vietnam
7. Singapore
8. South America

However, don't be scared to travel to these places with a peanut allergy if it is on your bucketlist! There are plenty of other dining options such as Western style restaurants, like pizza, burgers or sandwich bars.

Many Asian countries cook with peanuts but if you're eager to delve into Asian Cuisine, the most peanut allergy-friendly country is Japan. Check out our 12 day itinerary for Japan to make the most out of your trip!

Some other countries where peanuts are less likely to be an issue are the United States, New Zealand and Canada - due to their similar diet and all being English speaking nations.

Europe is also a safe option, as peanuts are not generally used in most of their cooking. Most menus also list the potential allergens to help make travelling with a peanut allergy easier. 

It is important to bring a full supply of any medication you need to cope with your allergy. Consider also bringing information regarding your condition, written in English and in the local language (if possible!).

Remember to also pack your travel insurance documents, and instructions for potential doctors regarding the medications you are taking.

Translation cards can be a useful thing to pack for each country you are visiting. Having a message explaining your food allergy in the local language will be a useful tool to show your waiter before ordering a meal. These messages can either be translated online, or ask your hotel staff to help you. 

Prepare for the worst and you'll be more likely to stay safe if an unfortunate scenario happens.

Many companies will be accommodating to your needs, but be sure to communicate your specific needs ahead of time—this applies to airlines, hotels and tour groups.

If you do not see ingredient information listed on their websites, don’t be afraid to give the company a call. Be clear and direct about your needs.

Some airlines no longer serve peanuts, so if this sounds like the best option for you, consider researching these particular companies. 

Packing your own travel snacks before leaving home can also come in handy! Flight attendants and hotel staff are only human, and they can make mistakes.

• Take morning flights. Planes are usually cleaned over night. 
• Wipe your seat before sitting down. Crumbs from previous travellers might be left on the seat. 
• Avoid putting your items in the seat pocket. Many different things go into these pockets, including food, so it is not worth the risk. 
• Always carry your Epi-Pen with you. An obvious one, but an Epi-Pen is a must-have in all circumstances. 

Read this blog for top tips about how to travel with an allergy (particularly a peanut one!). Having an allergy doesn't have to stop you from seeing the world. 

Research, be prepared and take precautions to protect yourself on your travel adventures. 

Many travellers with existing medical conditions, such as allergies, think they cannot obtain travel insurance - but this is not always the case.

If you have an existing medical condition, including a peanut allergy, remember to declare it with your chosen travel insurer. Depending on the condition, it may be automatically covered by their policies!

Consider a travel insurance policy from Cover-More to protect you and your existing medical conditions. Simply declare your medical condition/s to see if cover can be provided. 

If you're unsure, read our FAQs to find out more about our policy protection and compare travel insurance plans. 

Yes! Many parents of children with peanut allergies think foreign travel is too risky. While this may be the case in specific scenarios, it is not true for every child.

If you do decide to travel with your child with an allergen, arm yourself with knowledge. Take all of these tips to heart and work twice as hard to make sure they are executed.

Even though our kids may be fussy eaters, luckily enough some of the safest dining options will surely be a favourite option for them.

Large food chain stores such as McDonalds will have strict food safety regulations in place all around the world. 

So if all else fails trying the local cuisine, Western fast food chains could be an option that your kids not only love, but are likely a safe and familiar choice.

Armed with these tips, you can make travelling with an allergen for you and your family a breeze!