Gluten Free On the Go

Navigating the world of Celiac living can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to staying prepared on the go. It's not always as simple as grabbing a quick bite, given the gluten-filled landscape around us. We've all been there – faced with limited options like candy bars or chips at convenience stores while our pals indulge in heartier options. I can totally relate – I get seriously hangry (that's hungry + angry) when I go too long without a proper meal, and I'm sure you do too!

I've got some handy tips and go-to options that'll keep you fueled and ready for whatever comes your way. When it comes to dining out, consider safe havens like PF Changs, Cooper's Hawk, Jersey Mike's, Chipotle, and Chick-fil-A. While I haven't personally tried Red Robin, BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse, or Outback Steakhouse, they're quite popular within the Celiac community. Remember, it's always a good idea to ask about their food prep and handling practices, as these can vary from place to place. While these establishments are not exclusively gluten free, they do offer options on their menus that are safe for those following a gluten free diet, most of the time. Always always always ensure that you're speaking up and informing the staff of your Celiac, even when ordering from a gluten free menu, so they can take proper measures to keep your meal as safe as possible. You can also request to speak with a manager if you are feeling any hesitations about options that might be safe for you to order.

Now, when you're not behind the wheel, it's time to BYO-food for the journey. Opt for snacks that can handle room temperature without spoiling, making them perfect travel companions. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Mini peanut butter cracker sandwiches
• Fresh fruits and veggies
• Homemade trail mix and granola
• Dates

If you're looking for heartier options, I've got you covered there too. Check out these gluten free breakfast and lunch ideas that are easy to take with you. A cute cooler tote might come in handy for refrigerated items, especially if you won't be chowing down right away. Oh, and let's not forget the magic of mason jars or Stasher bags – perfect for taking foods on the go with less waste.

• Hard boiled eggs
• Smashed avocado with tomatoes on GF toast
• Peanut butter and banana on GF toast
• Yogurt topped with GF granola
• Pasta salad, chicken or tuna salad paired with veggie slices or crackers

So, there you have it – some tried-and-true ways to keep yourself well-prepared on the go. 

If you've found this blog post helpful and you're looking for more in-depth guidance, I've got the perfect next step for you! My online course, Settling into Celiac, takes a deep dive into all aspects of dining out safely with Celiac Disease. It's like having a friend by your side, providing you with valuable insights on questions to ask about food handling, effective ordering techniques, menu decoding, and seamless communication with waitstaff. Additionally, you'll learn about savvy packing tips for both short and long road trips, alongside hours of other meaningful content created to help you effectively manage a gluten free lifestyle with ease-  like how to prepare your home, understanding cross-contamination and learning the ins and outs of label reading. Learn more about the Settling into Celiac online, self-paced course here!