DON’T BUST A GUT

Grace Ellis has a few tips for travellers with dietary issues

With 6-8 per cent of children in New Zealand suffering from a food allergy, travelling can become a stressful time for the whole family. Put your mind at ease with these useful tips on how to get the most out of your trip — the advice applies for adults with allergies too, of course.

Check your insurance policy

Some travel insurance companies charge extra for those at risk of anaphylaxis. So, before you whisk away to your destination, double-check your child is covered in the case of an emergency.

Alert others to your allergy

Though no flight is completely risk-free for people with allergies, making the cabin crew and passengers next to you aware of the issue can help ensure a safe journey. Have your child sit in the window seat to minimise the likelihood of food being passed over them, and wipe down the seat beforehand. In the case of a nut allergy, some airlines are happy to skip the nutladen snacks to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction.

Prepare your own food

Though it may seem like an added hassle, it might be worthwhile preparing a meal or two at home for your child to eat on the journey. Many airlines don’t take responsibility for cross-contamination, nor do they cater to severe allergies in some cases. Quarantine laws may have restrictions on the types of food you can bring in, so be sure to check these before your flight. Bring a few extra dried or packet snacks just in case. Let’s be honest, who actually enjoys airline food anyway?

Carry an EpiPen/Medication

In the case of a severe allergy, flying on

an aeroplane can arguably be the most dangerous part of travelling. Though cabin crew are there for your assistance, they can only do so much in helping reduce the risk of allergic reaction. The reality is that no given space can be completely allergenfree. Talk to your family doctor before you travel and make sure you’re stocked up with the relevant medication your child needs. Pack spares for extra assurance.