When I travel, I have essential items I can't leave home without! I feel like this list has grown substantially since being diagnosed with Celiac disease. I can't just grab any snack or sandwich and eat while traveling. I can't just pick up any over-the-counter pain reliever and take it. Everything has to be checked to ensure it is gluten-free. If not, it won't be a fun trip.
Portable gluten-free snacks are a must. This can be a struggle! I want protein that does not have to be kept cold, and that sounds appealing. It is not as easy as it sounds. I often pack nuts, trail mix, and Kind bars. I also sometimes pack beef jerky. Honestly, I don't like beef jerky, but it doesn't need to be kept cold, and it is great for protein. I also pack popcorn, gluten-free pretzels, and/or dried fruit.
Not only do I have to check all of my prescription medications before taking them, but I also have to check all over-the-counter medications. So, I always carry over-the-counter medication, which I know is gluten-free, with me wherever I go. Often, you can find off-brand products that is labeled gluten-free at Wal-Mart or Target.
Side note: If you haven’t heard of glutenfreedrugs.com, it’s definitely worth checking out. The site is run by a pharmacist and provides information on whether specific prescription medications are gluten-free. You can look up your medication by name and see if your brand is considered safe. It’s been an incredibly helpful resource for me! (I still wish the FDA would ban the use of gluten as a filler in medications.)
Anyone who has any type of stomach issues understands this. If I get glutened, as many of you know, my stomach hurts! The last thing I want on a trip is to have my stomach hurt and not have an outfit that I can wear comfortably. I didn't realize until a few years ago that it was not "normal" to want your pants to be a bit bigger in case you don't feel well. I have had stomach pain so often that this is normal to me.
Okay, I know it sounds strange, but I know a lot of people who cannot go without their Chapstick. I'm one of them. If I have it, I often don't need it, but if I don't have it...my lips feel really dry! So, I pack my favorite gluten-free chapstick, Blistex.
I also have sensitive skin. I'm allergic to a lot of things, so I like to have the brands I know and trust with me. Dove body wash is my favorite, as it's great for sensitive skin! I used hotel body wash only a few times in my life, and my skin was so dry and irritated. I don't touch them now. Does anyone want some hotel toiletries?
I also pack my shampoo and conditioner. I have wavy/curly hair, and I have finally found a product that works for me! I use LUS brands shampoo, conditioner, and gel. If I use different shampoos, my hair gets UNRULY!
