In today’s modern world, it is hard to travel without getting on an airplane. At least if you wish to get from one continent to another. For someone with celiac disease, or someone who is on a gluten free diet, this can come with some challenges. However, if you start your planning early and travel prepared, you will find it to be a piece of cake!
Here are some of my tips for a worry-free gluten free flight:
1. Order a special meal with the airline
You’d be surprised by how many airlines today offer special meals. You can choose between a wide range of food restrictions, where gluten free diet is among them. To order a gluten fee meal, there are different ways (depending on the airline and how you book your ticket). You may get the option to choose this in the booking process. Sometimes you get the option when you access your reservation after the booking is completed. In some instances, you can call, e-mail or chat with the airline/agency you booked your ticket through.
Note: This only applies for flights with meals included. If you need to purchase a meal onboard, you may have limited choices and are better off bringing some snacks.
2. Double check that your gluten free meal is actually registered
You should double check that your gluten free meal is registered on your booking (it will normally be stated on your reservation), as I have experienced being on a long-haul flight with no special meal. If you see it stated anywhere, then you are safe. If you do not see it, it could be worth sending an e-mail to make sure there wasn’t any system error.
3. Check the label on your special meal
Every special meal will have something written on them to state the meal restriction it is appropriate for. The code for gluten free meals is GFML. Sometimes airlines serve regular meals at the same time as special meals and you can end up with a regular meal by mistake. There is no harm in checking the label. You should also avoid accepting the fresh bread buns being served to everyone as these are definitely not gluten free. The crew is often very busy during meal serving and are unlikely to remember that you have a food restriction.
4. Bring gluten free snacks in your hand-carry
It is always a good idea to bring some gluten free snacks or even a meal when you travel. You never know if the meal you receive will keep you full or if you get hungry in transit. I have a clear favorite of food to bring onboard: maki tunarolls (freshly made and from canned tuna to ensure no food poisoning, of course!). If you don’t fancy a meal, gluten free treats are also a good idea.
5. …but do your research ahead of time before you decide on what to bring
Be careful with liquids (in order to pass through security check) and check any food restrictions of the airlines. For instance, many airlines have restrictions on smelly foods and meals containing peanuts. Some airlines do have rules against bringing any meals onboard, so check the airline website as well. Also, do not forget to check any restrictions in bringing food into the country you are traveling to – in case you have leftover food from your flight.
6. Bring some spices and even a little sauce package
I can honestly say that I actually like the gluten free meals on flights. Some are better than others, but it is a little luxury to be able to get a special meal up in the skies. And it doesn’t hurt that the gluten free/special meals very often are served before regular meals. With that said, many caterers of airline food chose to eliminate more or less anything tasty from a gluten free meal. That means you may receive a meal of rice and steamed vegetables. If you bring some exciting spices and even a little gluten free sauce package, you can make your meal even more special.
