Travelling this Easter: the allergy checklist 

As the Easter holidays approach, many of us are planning trips, whether within the UK or abroad. If you or your child has allergies, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure a safe and stress-free holiday. Here’s a handy checklist to help you stay safe while travelling: 

1. Research your destination 

Before you go, take the time to research your destination. If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation, you’ll have more control over the food you eat, which can be easier for managing allergies. However, if you plan to eat out or dine at your accommodation’s restaurants, it’s important to identify safe places to eat. 

• Contact eateries: Reach out to restaurants, cafes, and bars to confirm if they can accommodate your allergies. Ask about their allergy processes and safety measures. 

• Catered accommodation: If you’re staying at a hotel or similar accommodation with meals provided, notify them of your allergies ahead of time and remind them when you arrive. Always double-check when ordering food. 

2. Organise travel insurance 

Make sure your travel insurance covers allergies. Always declare any allergies when booking your policy, as failing to do so could result in your claim being denied if something goes wrong. 

3. Plan your travel 

Travelling with allergies requires extra care, especially if you’re using public transport or flying. 

• Public transport: When using buses or trains, consider travelling at quieter times to avoid crowded spaces. You may also want to bring wet wipes to clean seating areas that might have come into contact with your allergens. 

• Flying: If you’re flying, each airline will have their own allergy policy and there are specific steps you can take when flying to ensure your safety. Find out more here. 

4. What to bring 

Make sure you’re well-prepared for emergencies by packing the following: 

• Adrenaline auto-injectors: Always carry your two prescribed adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) with you at all times. You may also want to store these in a special bag that helps keep your medication at the correct temperature. 

• Travel certificates: If flying, you may need a travel certificate for your medication. Check with your airline for requirements. 

• Allergy Action Plan: Download or update yours or your child’s allergy action plan to be used in case of emergency. 

• Medical ID on your mobile phone: Fill in your mobile’s medical ID with emergency contact details, information about your allergies, and the medications you take.  

• Translation cards: If travelling abroad, use translation cards that explain your allergies and how to ask about them in the local language.  

• Safe snacks: Pack allergy-safe food for the journey, especially if you’re unsure about food availability at your destination.  

• Medical identification: If you have wearable identification showing your allergies, remember to wear this. 

5. While your away 

Staying vigilant while you’re away to reduce the risk of a serious allergic reaction. 

• Check ingredients: Always read the ingredients of any food or products you buy. Be aware of local labelling laws and discuss your allergies with the server when you arrive. 

• Avoid buffet-style meals: Buffets can pose a cross-contamination risk, so try to avoid them if possible. 

• Check Drinks: Allergens can also appear in drinks, so be sure to ask about the contents. 

• Double-check: When your food arrives, always confirm that it’s free from your allergens. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of caution and not risk it. 

6. Always carry your two adrenaline auto-injectors. 

For more information, see our Travel page and Eating out page.  

7. Staying home this Easter?  

If you are staying at home for Easter, check out some of our other allergy-safe Easter tips and activities for children.