Vegan Travel Tips: How to Pack and Eat Plant-Based on the Go

Traveling while maintaining a plant-based lifestyle might seem daunting at first. Whether you’re exploring a new city, heading on a weekend getaway, or embarking on an international adventure, navigating food options and ensuring you have the right supplies can feel like a challenge. But with a little preparation, traveling as a vegan can be an exciting and rewarding experience! From packing your travel bag with plant-based snacks to finding the best vegan-friendly restaurants around the world, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your trip without compromising your values or health.

In this blog, we’ll share some practical vegan travel tips to help you pack efficiently, find plant-based food on the go, and make your travel experience as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, these tips will help you stay nourished and satisfied while you explore the world.

1. Plan Ahead: Research Your Destination

One of the most important things you can do when traveling as a vegan is research your destination before you go. Every city and country has its own food culture, and knowing what to expect in advance will make your experience much smoother.

• Check Vegan Guides: Websites like HappyCow and Vegman offer comprehensive guides to vegan-friendly restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores worldwide. They also list vegan options at non-vegan establishments, which can be incredibly helpful when you’re out and about.

• Search for Vegan Cities: Some cities and countries are known for being particularly vegan-friendly. Cities like Berlin, Tel Aviv, Portland, and Chiang Mai boast a plethora of plant-based restaurants, food markets, and vegan street food. If you’re heading to one of these destinations, you’ll have no shortage of options.

• Cuisine Research: Look into the traditional foods of the region and check if they have vegan versions. For example, many Mediterranean dishes like falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh are naturally plant-based. Indian, Thai, Mexican, and Ethiopian cuisines also offer plenty of plant-based choices. On the other hand, in places where veganism isn’t as widespread, you may need to get creative with your order or try local plant-based alternatives.

2. Pack Your Own Vegan Snacks

Even if you’re visiting a vegan-friendly destination, there will be times when you’re in transit—whether that’s on a plane, bus, or during a long road trip—and you won’t have immediate access to fresh food. Having some go-to vegan snacks in your bag can save you from hunger and stress.

Here are some great snack ideas to pack for your trip:

• Energy Bars: Choose plant-based energy bars or protein bars that are free from animal-derived ingredients. Brands like Clif Bar, KIND, and Larabar offer a variety of options.

• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and trail mixes are compact, nutrient-dense snacks that travel well. They’ll keep you full between meals without taking up much space in your bag.

• Fresh Fruits: If you’re traveling locally, fresh fruit like apples, bananas, and oranges are easy to carry and don’t require refrigeration. If you’re traveling internationally, dried fruits like apricots, raisins, or figs are also great options.

• Crackers and Hummus: Individual packs of hummus (or other plant-based dips) paired with crackers or veggie sticks make for a filling snack. Many grocery stores carry small, single-serving hummus packs that are perfect for travel.

• Vegan Jerky: Plant-based jerky, made from soy, seitan, or mushrooms, is a great high-protein snack for long journeys.

• Instant Oats or Instant Noodles: For situations when you may have access to hot water (e.g., on a plane, in a hotel, or hostel), instant oats or instant noodles (check for vegan versions) can be a warm, filling meal.

Packing these snacks ensures that you have options on hand when there are limited vegan-friendly food choices available.

3. Invest in Reusable Containers and Cutlery

If you’re planning to buy fresh fruit, snacks, or takeout while traveling, it’s a good idea to bring along your own reusable containers and utensils. This can save you from using disposable plastic and help reduce waste. Plus, having your own set of utensils means you’re always ready to eat without having to ask for plastic cutlery.

• Collapsible Tupperware or Bento Box: A compact, leak-proof container can be used for packing leftovers, taking meals to go, or storing snacks.

• Reusable Utensils: A small travel cutlery set (fork, knife, spoon, and chopsticks) made from bamboo, stainless steel, or silicone is easy to carry and ideal for meals on the go.

• Reusable Straws: If you like smoothies or iced drinks, a reusable straw (made from metal, silicone, or bamboo) will help you reduce single-use plastic.

Not only is this more environmentally friendly, but it can also save you money as you avoid purchasing disposable items that may not be necessary.

4. Be Prepared to Ask for Modifications

When eating out at non-vegan restaurants, don’t hesitate to ask for modifications to make a dish plant-based. Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary preferences, especially if you’re polite and clear about your needs. Here are some tips for navigating restaurant menus:

• Ask for Vegan Substitutions: If a dish contains dairy, eggs, or meat, ask if they can be substituted with plant-based ingredients. For example, ask for tofu instead of chicken, or a dairy-free version of a sauce or dressing.

• Be Specific About Ingredients: While some restaurant staff may be familiar with veganism, others might not be as well-versed. Make sure to specify exactly what you need to avoid—whether it’s butter, cheese, or a certain sauce.

• Check for Vegan “Hidden” Ingredients: In some cultures, it’s common for foods to be prepared with animal-based ingredients like fish sauce, broths, or lard. Ask questions about how a dish is prepared to ensure it aligns with your vegan diet.

• Look for “Vegan-Friendly” Markings: Many restaurants now highlight vegan-friendly options on their menu or use specific icons to indicate dishes that can be made plant-based.

Remember, being flexible and patient can go a long way in making sure you have a great dining experience, even in non-vegan-focused restaurants.

5. Explore Local Markets and Grocery Stores

Local markets and grocery stores are often full of plant-based snacks and fresh ingredients. This is a great way to stock up on food for the day, especially if you’re visiting a country where vegan restaurants are sparse.

• Visit Farmers’ Markets: Many countries have vibrant farmers’ markets that feature fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and local grains. These markets are also great for finding local vegan treats like dried fruit, fresh bread, or vegan pastries.

• Stock Up on Staples: Grocery stores and supermarkets often have plant-based staples like pasta, rice, canned beans, tofu, and fresh produce. Having these ingredients on hand allows you to prepare your own meals, especially in accommodations with kitchen facilities.

• Vegan Packaged Foods: Depending on the country, you may find vegan-friendly packaged foods such as plant-based sausages, dairy-free cheese, vegan yogurts, or ready-made soups. These can be handy for quick meals when you don’t feel like cooking.

• Check for Plant-Based Snacks: In many places, you’ll find packaged vegan snacks like chips, crackers, roasted nuts, or granola bars. These are perfect for when you need something quick to eat between sightseeing or traveling.

6. Use Vegan Travel Apps

There are several apps that can help you locate vegan-friendly options while you’re on the move. These apps can be a lifesaver, especially in unfamiliar cities or countries.

• HappyCow: HappyCow is the go-to app for finding vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and stores. It includes user reviews and photos, so you can make an informed decision about where to eat.

• VeganXpress: This app provides a guide to vegan options at chain restaurants, so you can quickly check if your favorite fast-food spot offers plant-based meals.

• Vegman: This app is particularly helpful in non-English speaking countries. It translates common vegan phrases, helping you explain your dietary preferences when language barriers arise.

7. Stay Hydrated and Energized

Traveling can be exhausting, especially when you’re navigating through airports, exploring new cities, or hiking through nature. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially when flying or in hot climates. Many airports have water refill stations, so bring a reusable water bottle to save on plastic waste.

• Hydration Snacks: Coconut water and fruit-based drinks can also help you stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.

• Electrolyte Supplements: If you’re in a hot climate or engaging in strenuous activity, bringing along vegan-friendly electrolyte supplements (or powders) can help you maintain your energy levels.

Conclusion: Traveling with Ease as a Vegan

Traveling as a vegan doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can easily enjoy delicious plant-based meals, snacks, and experiences, wherever you go. Research your destination, pack some key snacks, invest in reusable travel gear, and use technology to guide your food choices. Most importantly, embrace the adventure and the opportunity to discover new cultures, cuisines, and flavors.

With these vegan travel tips, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy your journey, stay true to your plant-based lifestyle, and make the most of your time exploring the world. Happy travels!