Tips for Basic Travel

For your formula and low protein foods:

1. Stick to your routine in consuming formula as much as possible (taking it at the same times every day).
2. If not sold in individual packets, you can package your formula into single servings and place it in plastic bags. Be sure to double bag to avoid leakage of powder.
3. You can request samples of convenient pre-packaged formulas prior to your trip to see if you like them.
4. You can take along formula in bar form for long days when you need a quick boost.
5. You can freeze formula at night and put it in a cooler in the morning. By lunchtime, the formula will have defrosted, but will still be very cold and perfect for drinking.
6. Mix formula with bottled water to reduce taste differences. This will also help you avoid the possibility of “travelers” diarrhea or an upset digestive system.
7. If you are traveling with pre-mixed liquid formula, pre-test your containers ahead of time to make sure they don’t leak.
8. If you flavor your formula, bring the flavorings along. You may not be able to find what you need at a different location.
9. If you prefer a special brand of a product, bring some along on your trip. It may not be available in all parts of the country.
10. Take a cooler or ice chest filled with your favorite low protein foods. If traveling by car, you can use a plug-in cooler.
11. When possible, send formula and special low protein foods ahead of time to your final destination.
12. Be sure to bring a beverage container and mixer with you.
13. Check with the airlines about restrictions and packaging.

For hotels:

1. When possible, stay at hotels that have kitchenettes or kitchen facilities. This way you can do some cooking that will hold you over for a couple of days.
2. Make special arrangements to have a fridge in your hotel room.

General:

1. Carry a food log to keep track of your phe intake.
2. Try to eat healthy foods. Stopping at a fast food restaurant on the side road may seem tempting and easy, but choose a grocery store instead. You will feel better in the end.
3. If you're traveling with friends, you can let them know about your PKU in advance, and discuss challenges of the diet before and during travel. They can support you and help you stay on track if you are tempted to cheat.
4. If visiting a resort or going on a cruise, contact the chef a month in advance. This will allow you to make arrangements and, if needed, send supplies. 
5. Pre-package any extra vitamins, minerals, or tyrosine that you might need. 
6. If you travel to the same place repeatedly, get to know the restaurants and the people that work there, just as you would at home.

Make a plan!

Keep a travel list for trips in your computer. It can save you a lot of time while helping you remember favorites and necessities. Make copies for each trip and make changes for each trip.