When traveling, staying on a specific food regime can be difficult. However, some careful planning can ensure you maintain your special diet and have a pleasant holiday at the same time. Here are some tips to help you stay on track.

Trip planning – You should research your destination and look at how you can overcome food challenges. For example, if you travel to India and are vegetarian, you will have no problem finding meatless dishes. But in a country like South Africa, finding vegetarian dishes can require some planning.

Call ahead – If you are booking your holiday through an agent, inform them to make dietary arrangements for your stay. You could also request for group travel that specifically caters to your dietary needs.

Food allergy cards – If you travel to a country where you don’t speak the language, it is best to carry food allergy translation cards. You can buy wallet-size cards that will clearly explain your allergy to locals.

Speak up – When you arrive at your destination, speak to the hotel’s concierge and ask them if they know of any restaurants that will cater to your specific food needs.

Traveling in your home country – If you’re traveling in your home country, keep track of a few local chains that operate in many states.

Bring snacks – It is best to pack some dry snacks that you can carry with you, just in case you can’t find a place to eat.