Taking Your Child’s Eating Disorder Recovery on the Road: A Parent’s Guide
Traveling with a child in eating disorder recovery can feel overwhelming, but with planning, structure, and flexibility, it is possible to maintain progress while creating positive memories. Whether it’s a family vacation, school trip, or visiting relatives, keeping your child emotionally supported and nutritionally stable is key.
Preparing for the Trip: Setting the Foundation
· Plan Meals in Advance
o Research restaurants or grocery stores at your destination
o If possible, book accommodations with a kitchen or fridge for meal flexibility
o Bring safe foods or meal supplements for backup
· Talk About the Trip Ahead of Time
o Discuss potential food challenges (new foods, different meal times, social settings)
o Validate your child’s anxiety about eating in unfamiliar places
o Create a flexible eating plan together to reduce stress
· Stick to a Structured Meal Schedule
o Even if meal options vary, keep meal/snack timing consistent
o Bring snacks for travel delays or missed meals
· Decide on Meal Expectations
o Will you be eating out frequently or cooking some meals?
o If eating out, will your child have a say in choosing meals?
o What non-food-related activities can you plan after meals to reduce anxiety?
· Goal: Reduce uncertainty and establish a sense of routine before the trip.
Managing Eating Challenges on the Road
· Eating at Restaurants
o Choose restaurants with a variety of options (including safe foods and challenge foods)
o Order for them if needed—this can help avoid decision paralysis
o Normalize eating as part of the experience—talk about the sights, activities, and memories rather than the food
· Handling Social Eating Situations
o Prepare for extended family comments (e.g., "Why are you eating so little?")—teach your child responses or redirect conversations
o Have a code word or signal for when your child needs support
o Keep conversation light during meals—focus on travel experiences rather than food anxiety
· Dealing with Unexpected Situations
o Flight delays? No familiar food options? Feeling too anxious to eat?
§ Keep snacks handy (protein bars, nuts, crackers)
§ Gently encourage eating, even if portions are smaller
§ Remind them that every meal is a step in recovery, not a test
Emotional Support: Helping Your Child Cope
· Validate Their Feelings
o “I know eating on the road can feel stressful, but we’re in this together.”
o “It’s okay if you feel uncomfortable—we’ll find a solution.”
· Reassure Them That One Meal Won’t Derail Progress
o “One different meal won’t erase all your hard work.”
o “Eating is about nourishment, not perfection.”
· Build in Non-Food Focused Fun
o Plan engaging activities after meals (sightseeing, games, journaling)
o Keep the trip focused on experiences, not just food choices
What to Pack: Travel Essentials for Eating Disorder Recovery
· Favorite Snacks
o Keep some safe, familiar foods available
· Hydration
o Dehydration can increase food anxiety
· Therapy Tools
o Journal, coping cards, affirmation notes
· Emergency Medications
o If prescribed by a doctor for anxiety or digestive discomfort
· A Flexible Mindset
o Expect some challenges, but focus on progress, not perfection.
Handling Setbacks: If Purging or Restriction Occurs
· If your child skips meals or purges while traveling:
o Stay calm and compassionate—shaming doesn’t help.
o Reassure them: “This isn’t a failure, it’s just a challenge. Let’s focus on the next meal.”
o Reach out to a therapist (if possible) or adjust plans to reset structure and support.
Returning Home: Reinforcing Recovery
· Reflect on What Went Well
o What helped make eating easier?
· Adjust for Future Trips
o What could be improved for next time?
· Celebrate the Wins
o Even small victories build confidence!
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate help, please contact a healthcare professional or crisis intervention service immediately.
