Accessible Travel: Traveling Safely with Allergies with Expert Allie Bahn
Meet Allie Bahn — a fellow travel expert and passionate allergy advocate based right here in Philadelphia. With May marking Allergy Awareness Month, I couldn’t think of a better time to spotlight Allie’s critical work helping travelers navigate the world safely and confidently with food allergies. I invited her to share her expert tips and insight, not only to empower travelers, but also to spark more awareness among travel suppliers and industry pros.
Allie shares, “There are currently 33 million Americans living with food allergies—that’s 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 13 children in the U.S. alone. Globally, the number is even more staggering, with an estimated 220 million people affected by food allergies.”
Let’s elevate this important conversation — and make travel more inclusive for everyone. Give her a follow at @miss_allergic_reactor and visit her website to set up a consultation. Now, read on for her incredible insight.
Please meet Allie Bahn, Miss Allergic Reactor
The industry expert and consultant on all things traveling with allergies!
Can you briefly share your background and what led you to specialize in food allergies and travel?
Travel has always been a central part of my life, even as I've lived with many severe food and environmental allergies since birth. That experience has shaped the lens through which I view both everyday life and global travel. I started traveling internationally in my teens, continued through college, and spent much of my 20s living abroad. These experiences gave me firsthand insight into the challenges of navigating the world with food allergies, while also revealing the possibilities for making it safer and more accessible.
With a background in journalism and education, I launched my blog in 2008 before living in Istanbul and then for years in Italy, to share practical, real-world strategies for traveling with allergies. Over time, my expertise evolved into a larger mission to help others with allergies travel safely, while raising awareness and improving how the travel industry approaches allergy inclusion in the travel space. Today, I’m a travel writer, speaker, content creator, and consultant working with hotels, tourism boards, and travel brands to help make travel safer, more welcoming, and more inclusive for those living with allergies.
What are the most common misconceptions people have about food allergies and travel?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that people with food allergies cannot travel safely or that it’s simply too risky. In reality, with the right planning and tools, people with food allergies can and do explore the world safely and with confidence.
Another common misconception, especially within the travel and hospitality industry is that accommodating food allergies is too difficult or time-consuming. But in most cases, it comes down to small, thoughtful actions: clear communication, basic staff training, and ingredient transparency. These simple steps go a long way in building trust with a growing community of travelers who are often overlooked.
Many still view this as a niche concern, but it’s actually a growing public health issue that directly impacts how people travel, dine, and engage with the world.
You’ve shared some huge stats with me before, but please share for everyone here, how many people are living with allergies?
There are currently 33 million Americans living with food allergies—that’s 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 13 children in the U.S. alone. Globally, the number is even more staggering, with an estimated 220 million people affected by food allergies. These numbers continue to rise, and so does the need for greater awareness and inclusion. It's also important to note that food allergies can develop at any age, and adult-onset food allergies have become significantly more common in recent years.
Planning Ahead
What are the most important things a traveler with food allergies should do before they even book a trip?
Before booking a trip, it is important to consider where your travel comfort lies to be able to enjoy a trip. If you’re new to international travel, starting with a destination where English is widely spoken and food allergy labeling laws are in place, can help build confidence. Factors like language, access to emergency care, and general allergy awareness can make a big difference in how smoothly a trip goes. Traveling with food allergies does require a higher level of preparation, but that preparation helps make the experience safer and more enjoyable. Doing a bit of research ahead of time can go a long way.
Are there destinations that are easier—or more challenging—for travelers with food allergies?
Some destinations tend to be easier for food allergy travel thanks to greater awareness and food allergen labeling laws in place. Countries like Ireland and England are generally more allergy-aware, in part because of a higher prevalence of food allergies in the population and the presence of clear food labeling laws. In places with this in place, there's often a broader understanding of allergies among hospitality staff as well. On the other hand, destinations where labeling is inconsistent or where common allergens are used in most dishes, can present more challenges. Still, I always remind people that with the right preparation and mindset, any destination is possible. In countries where food allergy awareness is limited, working with local guides who speak the language can be incredibly helpful, and some travelers may also choose to pack a suitcase of safe foods to bring with them.
How should someone communicate their dietary needs with airlines, hotels, or tour providers ahead of time?
For hotels, restaurants, and tour providers, reaching out ahead of time is key. I recommend emailing in advance and then following up again a few days before the trip. Providing written information about the food allergies in the local language can also be helpful. Airlines are inconsistent and although they may be contacted in advance, very often there is no record of it at the gate.
Dining + Local Experiences
What are your top tips for safely eating at restaurants abroad with food allergies, especially with a language barrier?
I always recommend looking up restaurants in advance when possible, and reaching out before you go to the restaurant to give them time to prepare. Once you arrive, using a well-translated allergy card in the local language can help you communicate clearly with staff. I also suggest going on the early side of restaurant opening, so it is quieter and the staff has more time to understand your needs. Always trust your gut instincts. If something feels off, it is okay to politely leave and find something that feels more comfortable.
Do you recommend translation cards or allergy apps? If so, which ones?
Using translation cards is an essential part of navigating dining out safely with food allergies. It helps with clear communication and simplifies the entire process for everyone involved. For apps, I am a huge fan of using Google Translate lens to translate ingredients on packaged food in grocery stores. It's been a game changer to go from the old paper dictionaries when I first started traveling internationally to apps like this.
How can travelers research and vet restaurants or local food tours before arriving in a new city?
If you're working with a travel advisor who has restaurant recommendations or knows areas that are great for dining out, that can be a helpful starting point. From there, I recommend reaching out directly to restaurants either by email or social media to ask if they can accommodate food allergies. The same goes for local food tours, though in my experience, these can be more challenging to navigate safely. I hope more food tours will be able to accommodate in the future. When possible, hiring a local guide who understands your needs and can vet restaurants ahead of time is often the best and safest option.
Emergency Planning + Tools
What should be in every food allergy traveler’s emergency kit or carry-on?
Every food allergy traveler should make sure to have two epinephrine auto-injectors on them at all times (at a minimum). If you are traveling to more remote areas, you should consult with your allergist about how many they recommend. There are also some countries that have no access to epinephrine auto-injectors, so it is important to prepare with plenty of your own in case of emergency. Along with that, carry antihistamines and inhalers if you use them. Make sure to have multiple copies of translated chef cards for dining out. Packing plenty of safe snacks to have as a backup, is also critical. You never know when you will be stuck somewhere without safe food options.
How can someone prepare for a medical emergency in a country where they don’t speak the language?
It is a good idea to know the emergency number in the country you are visiting. Learn how to say “I have a food allergy” and “I need help” in the local language, or carry a translated emergency card. I also recommend researching local hospitals or emergency clinics in advance and noting the closest ones to where you will be staying.
Do you recommend travel insurance or any specific policies that cater to medical needs around food allergies?
Yes, I always recommend travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation. Make sure the policy does not exclude pre-existing conditions, since food allergies can sometimes fall under that category.
Families + Group Travel
What advice do you have for parents traveling with children who have food allergies?
Start planning early and involve your child in the process. Practice restaurant conversations at home and talk through what to do in different situations. Always pack extra medications and safe snacks, and make sure everyone involved in the trip understands your child’s allergies. Creating a travel folder or digital file with emergency information can also be helpful for peace of mind.
How can group leaders or travel advisors make trips safer and more inclusive for travelers with allergies?
One of the most important first steps group leaders and travel advisors can take is to ask about food allergies early in the planning process and create space for open, judgment-free conversation. This helps travelers feel safe sharing their needs. From there, it’s essential to clearly communicate those needs to all vendors, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
Industry + Trends
Are you seeing more destinations or travel companies catering to travelers with food allergies?
Yes, I am beginning to see a shift. Some resorts and cruise lines have implemented specific protocols to accommodate food allergy travelers as safely as possible. For example, certain cruise lines now offer detailed dining accommodations and have trained staff to address food allergy concerns.
That said, progress in education, awareness, and implementation is still gradual. While some companies are making strides, many in the travel industry are only beginning to recognize the importance of creating safer, more inclusive experiences for travelers with food allergies.
Awareness is growing, and I’m hopeful we’re on a path toward broader change. I love helping travel brands and hospitality companies better understand this community and take steps that not only improve guest safety, but also create more welcoming and trusted experiences for a growing number of travelers.
What’s one thing the travel industry still gets wrong about accommodating food allergies?
There’s still a common misconception that food allergies are simply dietary preferences or mild intolerances. This misunderstanding can lead to practices that fail to address the real risks involved and severity of food allergies. Many travel and hospitality companies also overlook the fact that by not prioritizing allergy awareness, they’re missing an opportunity to be more inclusive and to connect with a large, loyal market. Travelers with food allergies are deeply committed to supporting brands that prioritize their safety. When they find places that meet their needs, they return, spread the word, and become loyal to that brand. This travel community is growing and actively seeking destinations that truly support their needs.
Tell us a partnership or company you’d love to work with and why? We’ll manifest it!
I would love to partner with global hotel brands and airlines that are ready to make their offerings more accessible to food allergy travelers. We are the most loyal, repeat customers, and I’m looking for brands that recognize that value and see the impact that small but meaningful changes can have. Some dream partnerships for me include: JetBlue, for its potential to lead the airline industry in allergy-conscious best practices; Marriott, to help shape consistent, allergy-aware hospitality worldwide; tourism boards in the U.S. and abroad, committed to creating inclusive experiences; a trusted travel insurance provider, because peace of mind is essential for those with food allergies; and restaurant and hotel groups ready to create safe, welcoming spaces for all.
Parting Wisdom
What’s one essential piece of advice you wish every traveler with food allergies knew?
You do not have to let your food allergies hold you back from exploring the world. You may have to start by doing it scared, but over time and with more practice, it all gets easier and you’ll realize just how capable and resilient you really are!
Do you have any favorite destinations or hotel brands that go above and beyond in accommodating food allergies?
Italy is one of my favorite countries to live in and visit. Meals there are often made with just a few simple, high-quality ingredients, and culturally, there's a strong desire to make sure you truly enjoy the experience. I’ve also had wonderful stays at boutique hotels and resorts that genuinely prioritize safety and communication. One standout was Aurora Holidays in Utsjoki, Finland. It's a small resort, but the owner takes allergies more seriously than anywhere else I’ve ever been. I also had an incredible experience at a Marriott in Thailand, where the restaurant staff made me feel safe and understood, even in a country where many of my allergens are common in the cuisine. A few resorts in Belize also really impressed me with their level of care. These are the kinds of places I return to and confidently recommend to my clients and online community. I feel deeply loyal to the people and places who go the extra mile. It’s not always easy, but their willingness to accommodate food allergies makes a lasting impression and a loyal customer.
