Eating out on holiday: the allergy checklist 

Going on holiday is all about relaxing, exploring new places, and making memories—often over shared meals. But for people with serious allergies, dining out in unfamiliar locations can bring added stress. Whether you’re enjoying local cuisine at a beachfront restaurant, grabbing a quick bite during a sightseeing tour, or dining at your resort, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. 

Before you travel 

• Update your allergy action plan and make sure you carry it, along with your two prescribed adrenaline auto-injectors, at all times. 
• Research dining options ahead of time. Look up restaurants near your destination and check their websites for allergen policies. If possible, call or email in advance to ask about certain dishes.  
• Prepare key phrases in the local language. Learn how to explain your allergies clearly or bring allergy translation cards.  

• Medical identification. Fill in your medical ID on your mobile phone, which can usually be found on the lock screen on the emergency call screen. Include an emergency contact, any allergies, medical conditions, and current medications. For added safety, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet.
• Pack safe foods. Include allergy-friendly snacks and non-perishables in your luggage. This can be especially helpful for travel days or in case allergy-safe meals aren’t readily available. 

While dining out on holiday

• Call ahead. Don’t rely solely on online bookings or delivery app notes. Speaking to a staff member ensures your allergy needs are properly understood.  
• Be extra cautious with unfamiliar foods. Sauces, marinades, and dressings can contain hidden allergens. For example, nut flours are commonly used in some regional dishes, and wheat-based thickeners may be added to soups or gravies. 
• Avoid buffets and self-serve areas unless you can confirm that your food is prepared separately and won’t come into contact with shared utensils or surfaces. 
• Double-check every time. Even if you’ve safely eaten something at the same restaurant earlier in the week, don’t assume it will be safe again. Recipes may change. 
• Be mindful with drinks. Allergens can appear in drinks too, so check with bar staff before you order. Also, be aware that factors such as alcohol can raise the risk of a serious reaction. 

In case of emergency

If a reaction does occur, follow emergency instructions and use your adrenaline first. Make sure you know how to access emergency services at your destination and carry local emergency contact information with you at all times. 

With a little preparation and communication, eating out with allergies can be safe and enjoyable. For more tips and advice, visit our Eating Out and Summer Safety page.