Discover Gluten-Free Gems on Your Travels

Turning Food FOMO into a Fun Adventure—Your Guide to Gluten-Free Travel Success

I love traveling, but let me tell you—nothing hits quite like finding a gluten-free sweet treat in a new city. It feels like a little scavenger hunt where the prize is a guilt-free dessert I can actually eat. Over the years, I’ve discovered gluten-free crepes in Edinburgh, the most drool-worthy bakery in Chicago (shoutout to Defloured), and a whole lineup of hidden gems in places I never expected.

But let’s be real—there have been plenty of times I’ve sat in a restaurant while my friends dive into tiramisu or chocolate cake, and all I get is sorbet (if that). It’s isolating, and sometimes just plain depressing. That’s why turning the search for gluten-free eats into a fun little adventure has become one of my favorite things about travel. Let me share some tips to make it your fave, too.

Use TikTok for Gluten-Free Gold

TikTok is the MVP of travel research these days. I can’t count how many times I’ve found legit gluten-free gold just by scrolling through videos of people sharing their experiences. It’s like Yelp, but with better vibes and actual visuals of the food. You can even see if the spot aligns with your energy before you add it to your must-visit list.

Download the “Find Me GF” App

If you don’t already have this app, stop what you’re doing and download it now. It’s a game-changer. You can search by city, neighborhood, or even specific cravings like gluten-free pasta or dessert. It’ll show you a list of places that fit the bill. The reviews are the best part—users share their own experiences, including whether they’re celiac or just gluten intolerant, so you can get a solid idea of how safe a spot is for your needs.

Make a Google Maps Saved List

Here’s where I get a little extra, but trust me—it’s worth it. Once I’ve stalked TikTok and Find Me GF for recommendations, I head to Google Maps and create a saved list. If you’re on iPhone, you can even switch the pin icons to emojis (I use a baguette for my gluten-free spots because… irony).

Having this list ready before you even land is a lifesaver. When you’re wandering around a new city, starving and maybe a little hangry, you don’t want to waste time Googling gluten-free spots. Just open the app, check your saved list, and bam—instant options.

Turn It Into an Adventure

Instead of focusing on what you can’t eat, make it a point to seek out the gluten-free treasures of wherever you’re visiting. From bakeries to brunch spots, there’s almost always a hidden gem if you know where to look. And when you find that perfect gluten-free brownie or artisan pizza, it’s like hitting the jackpot.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip, take some time to research and map out your gluten-free finds ahead of time. Trust me, it makes the whole experience so much more enjoyable. Plus, there’s nothing better than turning something that could feel limiting into a little adventure of your own. Happy hunting, and may your travels be full of gluten-free sweet treats!

Got a go-to gluten-free spot you swear by? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for my next foodie adventure!