15 Essential Tips for Stress-Free Vegan Travel

15 Tips for Easy Vegan Travel

Travelling the world has never been so easy. Cheaper flights are increasingly accessible, accommodation prices have opened up due to affordable options, and borders to previously restricted countries have begun to open. However, for some people who wish to explore the globe, a common concern often arises regarding their diet — specifically for vegans.

As a vegan myself, I vividly remember my initial worries about vegan travel. Nevertheless, I’ve learned firsthand that vegan travel is easy. With some preparation and by following the advice of seasoned vegan travelers, you’ll find that being vegan while traveling can enhance your experiences rather than limit them.

Today, I’d like to share 15 actionable tips for easy vegan travel, ensuring you experience all the foodie adventure a trip has to offer.

1. Make Vegan Easy For Street Vendors

“I carry a small bottle of soy sauce in my bag for street food stalls in South East Asia. This allows me to offer vendors a substitution for the common fish sauce. I also bring a small chopping board and knife in my backpack for visits to local farmers’ markets, where I enjoy a variety of raw vegan food, like a mountain of fruit for breakfast or a big salad for lunch.”

2. Research Using Pinterest & Instagram

Social media, particularly Pinterest and Instagram, has proven invaluable during our travels. Searching via hashtags like #vegantravel allows you to discover incredible vegan dishes worldwide, while Pinterest can provide hundreds of mouthwatering recipes and recommendations for vegan dining.

3. Learn The Most Useful Phrases

“It’s essential to know how to ask important dietary questions while traveling. I keep phrases on my iPad for clarity, including asking if a dish contains eggs or meat. Often, I mention I’m allergic to certain items to ensure my meals are prepared correctly.”

4. Find Local Vegans Through Online Groups

“Joining vegan meetup groups online allows you to connect with fellow vegans around the world. These groups are excellent for finding vegan dining options and connecting with like-minded individuals.”

5. Carry Vegan Treats With You

“Packing a bag of vegan snacks is a must. During our time in Japan, for instance, we kept a stash of cliff bars, chocolates, and ginger chews handy to satisfy sweet cravings!”

6. Learn Local Ingredients

Understanding local ingredients is critical for navigating food options. Before arriving in a new country, I research common terms related to vegan ingredients to ensure I can identify what’s in my food. Engaging with local vegans can provide valuable insight, making it easier to avoid hidden animal products like milk or honey.

7. Notify Your Accommodation

Before booking a hotel or hostel, I always reach out to inquire about their vegan options. Many establishments are becoming aware of the demand for vegan meals and may provide suitable breakfast alternatives or accommodate special requests. It’s also a chance to educate them about vegan needs, helping future guests as well.

8. Find Apartments With Kitchens Using Airbnb

Utilizing platforms like Airbnb can be beneficial. Renting a space with a kitchen allows for meal preparation, especially in areas lacking vegan restaurants. The money we save cooking at home often helps fund our next vegan dining experience.

9. Stay & Eat with Local Vegans by Couchsurfing

“Couchsurfing presents another excellent vegan accommodation option. Many hosts list their dietary preferences, allowing you to filter searches for vegan-friendly stays. Engaging with hosts often leads to shared meals and recipes.”

10. Pack Eco Cosmetics (Just In Case They’re Hard To Find)

While it’s often encouraged to shop for cosmetics upon arrival, vegan-friendly products can be challenging to find. Therefore, it’s wise to pack essential vegan cosmetic items to ensure you have what you need throughout your travels.

11. Email The Local Tourism Association

Prior to visiting a destination, like Bologna, email the local tourism board to ask about vegan restaurant recommendations. They may provide you with useful suggestions that can help you plan your dining experiences.

12. Find 100% Vegan Accommodation

Seeking out solely vegan accommodations simplifies travel as a vegan. Though they can be rare, quick searches on platforms like HappyCow.net often yield results, providing you with a comfortable environment that aligns with your dietary choices.

13. Lightweight Packable Goods To Use As “Doggy Bags”

Bringing lightweight storage containers for food can be a game changer. Preparing meals ahead of time allows for picnic-style dining in beautiful settings, whether beneath the Eiffel Tower or on a beach in Thailand.

14. Search For Health Shops At Your Destination

Utilizing apps like Google Maps to identify health food stores prior to your trip can maximize your downtime. Mark potential stops on a physical map to create a travel route for when you arrive.

15. Follow Vegan Travel Blogs!

Engaging with blogs from fellow vegans is an excellent way to gain insights on dining options and experiences. Blogs like Mostly Amelie, Mindful Wanderlust, and Charlie On Travel provide firsthand perspectives on local vegan culinary offerings.

By employing these 15 tips for easy vegan travel, you can ensure that your next trip expands your horizons and culinary experiences while aligning with your dietary values. Who knows, perhaps we’ll cross paths on the road and share even more vegan travel tips — or better yet, a delicious vegan meal!

Dale is one half of the vegan travel couple, Angloitalian. Stay connected with his slow travel adventures on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.