Beyond Disney: Traveling with Food Allergies
For years, our vacations looked a little different from most. Instead of spontaneously picking a destination and booking a hotel, we carefully planned every detail to make sure our kids could eat safely. In those early years, we stuck to two main types of trips: renting a house where we could cook all our own meals or staying at Disney World, where their allergy-friendly dining options made traveling feel possible.
I’ll never forget the first time we dined at Disney’s Tusker House. I was so used to navigating meals with anxiety, always questioning every ingredient and double-checking kitchen procedures. But here, the chef personally came out, walked me through the buffet, and assured me they could safely feed my child. Tears of joy filled my eyes. Later that trip, at the Plaza Restaurant in Magic Kingdom, the staff went above and beyond, making my peanut- and tree-nut-allergic kids a special, safe dessert—complete with Mickey ears—that wasn’t even on the menu. That level of care meant the world to us.
Outside of Disney, vacation planning takes a lot of research and preparation. Before heading to a new location, I make a list of allergy-friendly restaurants, find the nearest hospital, and pack a suitcase full of safe snacks and groceries. Having our own kitchen is still a game-changer, allowing us to prepare familiar meals and reduce risk. We’ve learned that food allergies don’t have to limit our ability to explore and make amazing family memories.
If you’re planning a trip with food allergies, here are some tips to make it more safe and less stressful:
Research Ahead of Time: Look up restaurants, grocery stores, and emergency medical facilities before you go. Websites, apps like Spokin, and food allergy travel groups can be helpful.
Call Ahead: Speak directly with hotels, resorts, or restaurants to ask about their allergy procedures. Don’t assume a place will be safe—confirm first.
Pack Smart: Bring a stash of safe snacks, meal staples, and even a small cutting board and utensils if needed.
Have a Plan B: Even the best research can hit roadblocks. Always have backup food options available.
Traveling with food allergies requires extra effort, but it’s absolutely possible to have safe and wonderful experiences.
Hi! I'm Dr. Julie - a pediatrician and food allergy mom x3. I know first-hand the overwhelm and worry that come with raising kids with food allergies.
I help mom's like you feel calm, prepared and empowered so that your child can thrive.
PS: Check out the Allergy Mom MD Academy guides including the Food Allergy Quick-Start Guide and my Top Birthday Party Tips.
