12 Easy Vegan Travel Tips

Embarking on a journey as a vegan traveller might seem daunting at first, but with the right mindset and a few simple strategies, you can explore the world while staying true to your plant-based lifestyle. 

Whether planning a weekend getaway or an international adventure, these easy vegan travel tips will help you enjoy delicious, cruelty-free meals and make your journey as smooth as possible.

With some preparation and an open mind, vegan travel can be a rewarding experience. 

Le't’s check out 12 easy vegan travel tips that make exploring the culinary world of vegan food that much easier.

Research Vegan-Friendly Destinations

Before you set out on your adventure, research to identify destinations known for their vegan-friendly options. Many urban centres and tourist hotspots worldwide now cater to plant-based diets, making finding vegan restaurants and cafes easier. In addition, my destinations adhere to vegetarian diets for religious, spiritual and health reasons. Other locations might take more creativity and understanding, but that is part of the fun of travelling as a vegan.

Download Vegan Apps

Leverage technology by downloading vegan-specific apps that guide you to nearby vegan-friendly eateries. Apps like Happy Cow can help you discover plant-based options wherever you are. If you want a vegan option in your area, you can also check Google Maps or search for vegan hashtags on Instagram.

Accommodation Options

Consider booking your long-stay accommodation with kitchen facilities. This allows you to prepare simple vegan meals with local ingredients, giving you more control over what you eat. Not only is this a great way to save money, stay healthy and manage any dietary requirements or food allergies, but it is also a way to keep leftovers fresh for the next day.

Learn Basic Local Phrases

Familiarise yourself with basic vegan phrases in your destination's local language. This can be immensely helpful when communicating your dietary preferences to locals or restaurant staff. If you are not confident speaking the local language, another great idea is to print your vegan diet preferences and any allergies on a small card you can bring when ordering food.

Pack Vegan-Friendly Snacks

Prepare for any unexpected hunger pangs by packing a variety of vegan snacks. Nuts, seeds, dried fruits, energy bars, and crackers are convenient options that travel well and keep you fueled between meals. If you have a long day of travel, consider ordering an extra takeaway meal the night before. If you are staying at an accommodation with a breakfast buffet, bring your container to take away the fresh fruit or pastries for the road.

Communicate Dietary Preferences

Inform organisers about your dietary preferences if you're on a tour or cruise. Many travel providers are accommodating and can prepare vegan meals with sufficient notice. Even better, check out the vegan travel tour groups, getaways and retreats that cater to vegan travellers.

Check Online Menus

Before heading to a restaurant, check their menu online. This can give you an idea of the vegan options available and help you make an informed decision. Many establishments now include dietary information on their websites.

Pre-Order A Vegan Meal

Most airlines offer vegetarian and vegan meal choices. When booking your ticket, take advantage of this service and pre-order a vegan meal. This ensures that the airline prepares a suitable option for you. When possible, choose airlines that are known for being vegan-friendly. Some airlines are more accommodating and offer a variety of plant-based options. Be sure to look for the VGML Vegetarian Vegan Meal menu option on the in-flight menu, or contact the airline customer service before your flight with any questions.

Explore The Local Markets

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting markets. You'll likely find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other vegan-friendly ingredients. Plus, it's an excellent opportunity to interact with locals and discover hidden gems. Markets are a great place to find delicious snacks, fresh juice and a variety of local herbs and spices.

Check Local Specialties

Research the traditional dishes of your destination and inquire about vegan modifications. Locals are often happy to help you navigate their cuisine while adhering to your dietary choices. A little research into the destination’s top dishes should help you determine whether they will be vegan-friendly or not.

Embrace The Street Food Scene

Street food can be a vegan haven. Many cultures offer delicious plant-based street food options and a unique part of the local culinary scene. The street food areas are often crowded and fast-paced, which can be overwhelming, but going for a walk around first to check out the options before you buy is a great way to navigate the food scene. If unsure, try using Google Translate to communicate with the vendors.

Join Vegan Meetups

Utilise social media or meetup platforms to find vegan or vegetarian groups at your travel destination. Joining a local meetup can lead to valuable recommendations from seasoned vegans who know the best plant-based spots in the area.