Traveling with food allergies can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to hold you back from exploring the world! With thoughtful planning and insider knowledge, you can find amazing destinations catering to your dietary needs. We’ve scoured the globe to bring you the ultimate list of the best places to travel with food allergies. From luxurious resorts to action-packed theme parks, these spots go above and beyond to keep you safe and satisfied on your vacation. Let’s dive in!
What to Look for in an Allergy-Friendly Destination
Before we get to the good stuff, let’s review the key factors that make a location great for food-allergic travelers:
- Knowledgeable staff trained in handling food allergies
- Marked menus with allergen information
- Dedicated allergy-friendly kitchens to prevent cross-contact
- Access to medical care in case of an emergency
- Accommodations like in-room kitchens for preparing your meals
Keep these in mind as you evaluate your options. And, of course, always notify your destinations about your allergies well in advance and bring your emergency meds wherever you go!
What are the Top Allergy-Friendly Resorts in the U.S.?
Americaome to some incredible resorts that roll out the red carpet for food-allergic guests. According to Spokin users, these are the cream of the crop:
- Walt Disney World Resorts (Orlando, FL)—With extensive allergy menus, specially trained chefs, and unparalleled customer service, it’s no wonder Disney tops the list. Their restaurants and quick-service eateries are extraordinarily accommodating and knowledgeable.
- Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, CA)—The magic of Disney isn’t limited to the East Coast! Disneyland is another fan favorite, offering detailed allergy menus and well-informed staff at itsir on-site hotels.
- Great Wolf Lodge (Multip—Locations)—This family-focused chain features spacious suites with kitchens, perfect for making allergy-safe meals. Their results show that restaurants are comp—and tree-nut-free, and nut-free, too.
- Gaylord Hotels (Multiple Locations) – With renowned allergy-friendly policies, these upscale resorts are available regardless of your chosen location. Their culinary teams receive in-depth training on allergies and special diets.
Other top picks include:
- The Ritz-Carlton Naples
- Four Seasons Resorts (Scottsdale, Maui, etc.)
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
- Hyatt Regency Resorts
- Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
- Hilton’s Curio Collection
What are the Allergy-Friendly All-Inclusive Worth Booking?
All-inclusive resorts can be especially tricky, with the ever-present buffets and risk of cross-contact. But these international properties have stepped up to the plate, offering peace of mind along with your relaxing beach vacation:
- Lifestyle Holidays Vacation ReDominic offersohugelyhoffers offers HUGE, multi-bedroom villas with full kitchens stocked. The on-site restaurants are also allergy-aware and aware, with ample “safe” options.
- Beaches Resorts (Jamaica and Turks &—icos) – Beaches has a dedicated Culinary Concierge team working with you to create a safe meaThe chefsn. Chefs are well-versed in allergy protocols.
- Finest Resorts (Mexico) – Staff undergo rigorous food safety training here. Their “Finest Clubs” even have exclusive lounge areas with allergy-friendly snacks!
- Azul Beach Resorts (MePropertiesul properties have a stellar reputation in the food allergy community thanks to their exemplary customer service and attention to detail. Private chefs will even cook allergen-free meals for you!
I’m a big fan of booking through a knowledgeable travel agent specializing in food allergies, like Lesley Hayden-Hock at Pixie Lizzie or Amy Wicker at Amazing Journeys, to help coordinate the details. It’s well worth the extra help!
Cruising with Food Allergies
Cruise is making waves in accommodating special diets these days. Here are a few that get top marks:
| Cruise Line | Allergy-Friendly Highlights |
| Disney Cruise Line | Separate allergy prep stations in kitchens, wide range of options |
| Royal Caribbean | “Allergy Friendly” quick-service spots, attentive staff |
| Celebrity Cruises | Allergy-specific menus available, stock EpiPens on board |
| Oceania Cruises | Will pre-screen cabin for allergen exposure, carry-on food allowed |
Of course, even on the most accommodating ship, you’ll still need to be vigilant. Follow best practices like:
- Alert the Special Needs team well before departure
- Meet with the Maître d’ on Day 1 to discuss your needs
- Review ingredients with your server at each meal
- Carry your meds (in original packaging) and a doctor’s note
Now, let’s take a tour of allergy-friendly destinations around the world!
Best of the U.S.
We’ve covered the top resorts, but don’t overlookexcellentother excellent vacations right here at home:
Theme Parks That Get It Right
- Dollywood (Pige: Forge, TN) – Dolly Parton’s Park is famous for its allergy accIf you call ahead, sensations. Chefs will even prepare call ahead.
- Hersheypark (—shey, PA)—Fitting for a park built by a candy company, Hershey has a sharp eye for allergens. Its restaurants offer detailed allergen menus.
National Parks
Communing with nature is a fantastic option – just BYO food and scope out nearby hospitals in case of an emergency. Some of my favorite allergy-friendly parks include:
- Yellowstone
- Great Smoky Mountains
- Acadia
- Grand Canyon
- Yosemite
Complete the full list from AllergyEats!
City Slickers
Big cities mean more dining options and better access to medical care. These spots get a gold star:
- New York, NY—The Big Apple has something for everyone: countless allergy-friendly eateries and even allergy-friendly food tours!
- Seattle, WA—This health-conscious haven is home to one of the best gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-aware restaurants in the country. Check out Capitol Hill for the densest concentration of safe spots.
- San Francisco, CA – Another crunchy, alternative diet mecca, SF is a dream for food-allergic foodies. Don’t miss the Ferry Building Marketplace for tasty, safe eats.
Awesome Allergy-Friendly Adventures Abroad
Europe
Our friends across the pond have some lovely allergy-friendly locales:
- England & Scotland – The UK has an estimated 2 million food allergy sufferers, so awareness is high. Westfield Malls in London even have dedicated allergy-friendly food, which is significant! Other great towns include Brighton, Bristol, Manchester, and Edi—right.
- Italy—Italy takes food very seriously, and that extends to. In fact, Italian law requires restaurants to disclose allergens. Rome is especially accommodating.
The Caribbean & Mexico
Looking for a tropical escape? These spots will keep you safe AND sun-kissed:
- Aruba – This Dutch island is a haven for food-allergic travelers. Groceries carry many American “s, are” brands, and restaurants are well-versed in allergies.
- Turks & Caicos – With its pristine beaches and luxe resorts (like Beaches!), T&C is a fantastic pick. Many restaurants even have separate allergy kitchens!
- Playa del C—In recent years, men, Mexico – This Riviera Maya hot spot has become increasingly popular. Resorts like the Royal Hideaway Playacar and Grand Velas Riviera Maya are standouts.
Asia & Oceania
Venturing to the other side of the world? Consider adding these to your bucket list:
- Japan—This may surprise you, but it is incredibly accommodating to food allergies. Their Hypoallergenic Restaurant (HRS) certification system makes it easy to find safe spots. Tokyo and Kyoto are especially great.
- Australia – Oz has the highest food allergy rates in the world, so awareness is sky-high. Melbourne and Sydney have tons of allergy-friendly restaurants and bakers.
- Thailand—With its vibrant street food scene, Thailand can seem intimidating. But many restaurants, especially in Bangkok, are happy to accommodate special requests. Just learn how to say you are extra safe to be extra safe!
Allergy-Friendly Airlines
Getting to your dream destination is half the battle. These airlines offer the best food allergy policies and in-flight options:
| Airline | Allergy Policies & Perks |
| Delta | Peanut-free meals and snacks, buffer zones available |
| An extensive gluten-free menu will create an allergen buffer zone | An extensive gluten-free menu, will create an allergen buffer zone |
| British Airways | Can pre-board to wipe down seats, offers gluten-free meals |
| Southwest | All peanut-free and will suspend serving “peanut dust” snacks if you request |
Please note your allergies when booking, and always pack many safe snacks.
Creating a Custom Allergy-Safe Itinerary
Of course, you’re not limited to the destinations on this liproperith. With the proper prep, you can visit practically anywhere! Here are my top tips for crafting your own allergy-friendly adventure:
- Choose accommodations with kitchens so you can cook your meals. Airbnb and VRBO have tons of options.
- Research restaurants well in advance. Search allergy-specific reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor, AllergyEats, etc. Don’t be afraid to call or email ahead!
- Learn key allergy words in the local language, like “gluten,” “peanut,” “anaphylaxis,” etc. Screenshot images of your allergens will also show restaurants.
- Pack an allergy card with your listing in English and the local language. Give this to every restaurant!
- Locate hospitals and pharmacies near your accommodations, just in case. Consider investing in travel health insurance, too.
- Bring a chef card to give to the restaurant staff. This free chef card template from FARE is available in multiple languages.
Remember, knowledge and preparation are your greatest assets for a safe, enjoyable trip. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and advocate for yourself!
Crafting Own Allergy-Safe Itinerary
The truth? You can travel practically anywhere with thepropert prep. Here’s how:
Accommodations
- Book places with in-room kitchens (Airbnb and VRBO are fantastic options).
- Consider allergy-friendly hotels with dedicated allergen-free areas.
Research, Research, Research!
- Use AllergyEats, Spokin, and TripAdvisor to find restaurant reviews from food allergy travelers.
- Always call ahead and speak with restaurant staff about your specific needs.
Language Barriers
- Learn the words for your allergen in the local language. It could be the difference between a safe meal and a scary situation.
- Carry printed allergy cards in both English and the local language.
- Download allergy-specific translation apps or images to show restaurant staff.
Emergency Planning
- Know the location of hospitals and pharmacies near your accommodations.
- Carry extra epinephrine auto-injectors and bring your meds in original packaging.
- Consider travel health insurance that covers emergency care.
Pro tip: Allergy translation cards can be lifesavers in non-English-speaking countries. Give one to every server every time.
Happy (and Safe) Travels!
Traveling with food allergies might seem daunting, but with the proper planning, it becomes second nature. Don’t let allergies dictate your life—whether hopping between parks at Disney, lounging at an all-inclusive resort, or trying new flavors in Tokyo, the world is yours to explore.
Remember, it’s about preparation, communication, and vigilance. Always stay proactive. Advocate for yourself and your family. Pack wisely, notify the right people, and learn about the culture. That’s all it takes.
The world is too vast, beautiful, and full of experiences to let food allergies get in your way. So pack your allergy cards, epinephrine injector, and sense of adventure. The journey awaits—bon voyage!
ALSO READ: 15 Good Takeout Food Places in San Diego
FAQs
Yes! Check out Pixie Lizzie Travel and Amazing Journeys – they have tons of experience crafting safe itineraries.
Always travel with multiple epinephrine auto-injectors and any other necessary medications. If you have any signs of an allergic reaction, head to the nearest hospital immediately.
Apps like AllergyEats, Spokin, and Allergy Genie are great for searching user-generated reviews. When in doubt, call the restaurant and ask about their allergy procedures.
Stick to shelf-stable, individually wrapped items like dried fruit, seeds, allergy-friendly protein bars, and baby food pouches. Avoid anything too smelly or messy!
