Traveling as a vegan can be challenging, but it is not impossible! From language barriers to unfamiliar food options, approaching travel with a blend of preparation, flexibility, and an open mind is key. Over the years, I’ve learned how to make veganism work on the road—whether it’s tracking down the latest vegan hotspot in a plant-based city or scavenging basic ingredients to whip up a meal in a hostel kitchen. Somehow, I’ve managed to stay nourished and enjoy some truly delicious meals (though we’re definitely not talking about the time I ate unmicrowaved minute rice slathered in ketchup—please, don’t ever do that). In this post, I’ll share what to expect and some survival strategies to keep the hangry demons at bay.
What to Expect
When you travel as a vegan, here are a few things to expect:
1. Variable Levels of Vegan Options
All travel destinations have different levels of access to plant-based food. Cities generally have more options, but depending on the city, you could end up eating a seven-course vegan meal or, rather, the vegan savior: a large order of fries. Plan to scope out the scene of where you’re planning to travel before you get there.
2. Misunderstanding of Veganism
In my years of being vegan and even vegetarian, I’ve found that not everyone uses common words to describe my diet, and many people are simply unfamiliar with such terms. I’ve learned that just asking for something to be made vegan does not guarantee it’s going to be made vegan. Instead of asking if something is vegan, get more specific and ask if it has meat, dairy, or eggs. It’s essential to communicate your dietary restrictions as clearly as possible and remember, as my fourth-grade teacher Sister Anne-Marie always reminded me, patience is a virtue.
3. Language Barriers
Explaining your dietary restrictions in English can be difficult enough and can become even more challenging with a language barrier. In countries where I feel like I can manage explaining my needs in the local language, I’ll give it a try. However, I cannot claim to be a language wizard, so oftentimes, I will use Google Translate to communicate my needs. Some countries, particularly in Asia, have vegetarian or vegan-friendly vocabularies that differ from the Western concept, so understanding local terminology can save you from a potentially embarrassing or frustrating experience. Recently, in order to be clearer about my needs, I’ve been using a translated vegan explanation card. This simplifies the process because you don’t need to type your needs into Google Translate and worry about possibly forgetting something or incorrect translations each time you want to eat. I printed a card from this website, (https://www.maxlearning.net/HEALth/V-Cards.pdf) which explains veganism in a wide variety of languages. The same website has an app you can download and use on the go.
4. Creative Substitutions
You may find that a dish labeled as “vegetarian” is easily modified to fit your needs. Oftentimes, menu items will only have an ingredient or two that is not vegan, so it’s easy enough to ask for your pasta to be made without cheese on top or your salad with an alternate dressing. Depending on the culture and even the specific restaurant you’re visiting, making substitutions can be considered rude so if you do make substitutions consider keeping them to a minimum.
Survival Strategies for Vegan Travelers
Now that you know what to expect, here are some practical strategies to help you navigate your travels as a vegan:
1. Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible
Research your destination before you go so you can at least have a general sense of what options are available. Learn from my mistakes so you don’t get served a tomato, just a tomato, no seriously just slices of tomato on a plate (pics or it didn’t happen– see below). Apps like HappyCow (https://www.happycow.net), Google Maps (https://www.google.com/maps), and Yelp (https://www.yelp.com/) can help you find vegan-friendly restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores all over the world. In most places I’ve traveled, I’ve been able to find at least something to eat with a quick on-the-spot search of the area, but if you’re more of a Type A planner, making a list of vegan options in the areas you’re planning to visit could save you some stress. Pro tip: Download offline maps or save important vegan spots in your Google Maps list so you can quickly find them when you’re on the go without relying on internet access.
2. Pack Snacks
When you’re traveling to a more remote destination or if you’re unsure about food availability, packing snacks is a lifesaver. Vegan protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and chips will keep you alive while you search for your next food source. Check out this post for more specific snack and meal ideas. Pro Tip: Check airport security regulations about bringing plant-based food through customs, especially for international flights. Don’t be like me and get your precious and nearly full jar of peanut butter confiscated at airport security.
3. Embrace the Local Cuisine
Rather than sticking solely to vegan food you eat all the time at home, be open to trying local plant-based dishes. Many cultures already have a wide variety of traditional foods that are naturally vegan and delicious. Consider a simple Google search of traditional dishes of the region you’re visiting and check if they’re naturally vegan. Some travel destinations even make vegan versions of their traditional food so do some research on that as well. I’ve tried vegan pastel de nata in Portugal, vegan Schnitzel in Germany, and vegan Nasi Campur in Indonesia.
4. Go Grocery Shopping
If you’re unsure about finding vegan meals in local restaurants, head to the local grocery store to stock up on easy-to-prepare ingredients. Most supermarkets carry a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and legumes. If you’re lucky, you might even find plant-based products like tofu, tempeh, and plant-based meat and dairy substitutes. Having some ingredients on hand can help you prepare simple meals in your hotel room or Airbnb.
5. Choose Accommodations with Kitchen Access
Of course, if you’re investing in groceries, having a kitchen would greatly improve your eating situation. If you’re traveling for an extended period or visiting a destination with limited vegan options, consider staying somewhere that offers kitchen facilities. Most hostels, rental homes, and some hotels have kitchens. Preparing your own meals allows you to eat exactly what you want without relying on restaurants. Plus, it can be a fun way to try cooking with local ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as a vegan might require a little extra effort, but it doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. With some prep, creativity, and the occasional detour from your usual diet, you can still enjoy your travels without sacrificing your values or your taste buds. From finding hidden plant-based gems to navigating language barriers like a pro, there’s always a way to make it work. So, while you may have a few moments of “What am I even eating?” (we’ve all been there), the rewards of embracing new cuisines and experiences are well worth it. Your vegan journey may not always be perfect, but I promise you can make it work. Happy travels, and may the vegan gods be forever in your favor!
WooHoo! What an informative article for travelers!