Living a gluten-free life is challenging all on its own, but it becomes a more significant challenge when travel is involved. This is especially difficult when a gluten-free person is traveling by air. If the flight is more prolonged and requires a meal, there is the option to call ahead and request a gluten-free meal, but sometimes the trip is not long enough for a meal. In that case, the individual is in charge of their food. There are many good options for someone who cannot consume gluten, and many can be bought at the airport.

Beef Jerky and Chips

One snack option that is gluten-free and high in protein is beef jerky. The chewy texture, along with the protein, makes it a substantial snack. Beef jerky is also a snack that someone grabs and goes. It helps, so a person does not have to search for a protein option at the airport, asking if are eggs gluten free or if a turkey sandwich is gluten-free. It is also known to be lower in sugar, so it is a healthier option and fills a person up.

For those who like having a crunch on their snacks, most chip options are considered gluten-free. All a person needs to do is make sure it says so on the bag. They may not be the healthiest option, but they are a delicious snack.

Trail Mix

A great travel snack, no matter the type of travel, that everyone should consider is trail mix. Trail mix is a fantastic option whether a person can or cannot consume gluten. One of the best parts of trail mix is that it is easy to make, and a person can even find the ingredients at the airport. So all a person needs is their favorite kind of nuts, some dried fruit, and some chocolate, and voila, they have a great gluten-free snack for their plane ride. There is also the option to purchase an already made trail mix. The label will need to be checked to verify that all ingredients are gluten-free.

Energy or Candy Bars

While flying, sometimes a person needs a bit of a pick-me-up and finding a gluten-free energy or candy bar can help. Of course, one is a healthier option, and the other is not, but whatever the choice, it is up to the individual.

For these options, if someone has celiac disease, it may be best to avoid the prepackaged bars since they could have been made in a facility that deals with gluten and could cross-contaminate their other products. On the other hand, bringing homemade energy bars should be able to make it through security with no problem, and it helps ensure that it is free of gluten and there is no chance of contamination.

It may be a bit more challenging to make candy bars at home, but a person can find many gluten-free options within the airport for those who are only sensitive to gluten and do not suffer from celiac. But, again, it will be crucial to check the wrapper to ensure it does not contain gluten.

Fruits or Vegetables

For those who are concerned with healthy options, fruits and vegetables are a fabulous travel snack choice. There is a good chance the airport will have fruit and vegetables available, but it is not a guarantee they will. There is the likelihood that the options could not be the best quality or that there was cross-contamination with products that contain gluten. Bringing fruit or vegetables from home is the best to ensure the best quality. Fresh fruits like grapes and bananas are great options for fruits since they do not need refrigeration. Regarding vegetables, celery, carrots, grape tomatoes, and cucumbers are the best option.

Travel is filled with stress on its own, especially when it is air travel. Do not let finding gluten-free food options add to the stress. Be prepared and know the options; in return, extra stress will melt away.