It’s time to take that well-earned break, but there’s so much to think about when you have a child on the ketogenic diet.  It usually requires lots of extra planning, which will hopefully reduce any anxiety you might be feeling.  Be sure to make lots of lists a few weeks ahead, so you don’t forget anything.

Abroad or the UK?

Holiday in the UK

If it’s your first time travelling with the ketogenic diet, it might be a good idea to spend a few days in the UK in a self-catering apartment to build up confidence.

When travelling in the UK, here are a few things to consider:

How long is the car journey?   It might be an idea to travel in the evening so your child can sleep after dinner.

Take lots of water, and/or no added sugar drinks to keep hydrated, and maybe a keto milkshake in a cool bag.

Take lots of keto snacks, just in case there are delays on your journey.

Maybe batch cook some favourite recipes and take them in a cool bag to cover the first few days; this will give you time to relax when you arrive at your destination.

If you want to take frozen meals, then check out the YETI cool box.

Make sure you clearly label everything.

Holiday abroad

As with holidaying in the UK you need to think about how long the journey time will be. You can then work out how many meals, snacks or feeds you will need to take with you in your hand luggage.

Ask your keto team for a travel letter.  Most dietitians will have a standard letter with a contact name and number.  It should include a description of the diet and a list of all the foods that you will be taking with you; this should include both prescription items and ordinary food.

The dietitian’s letter may also be useful if you plan to visit water parks or theme parks where you aren’t allowed to take in your own food and drinks.

If you’re going away for a few weeks, it’s advisable to contact the airline in advance because you may need extra luggage allowance.

Take enough keto food, meals and snacks in your hand luggage to allow for delays and cancellations.  Some good snacks might include Babybel cheese, olives, K.Yo, Fatt bars, Ketocare Biscs/Savoury, sachets of mayonnaise and butter pats.

Take your usual meal planner and/or food exchange lists (see DG website) to calculate meals and snacks whilst you’re away.

Don’t forget to take your emergency sheet on how to manage illness on the Ketogenic diet. 

Pack your usual over the counter pain relief medications, hay fever remedies and some Dioralyte sachets.

Remember your scales and spare batteries!

Finally, have the most amazing time!! 

Judy x      Daisy Garland Nutritionist