Travelling as a vegan can be a rewarding and delicious experience, but it does require some planning and preparation. With the right mindset and a few essential tips, you can explore the world while keeping your taste buds (and nutrition levels) satiated and exploring the local culture.
Travelling as a vegan – is it hard?
Vegan travel can be challenging but it is not impossible. Set your mind to finding vegan food no matter what, and you’ll be prepared, creative, and adventurous. Don’t compromise on your vegan beliefs, even when faced with challenges.
Research the local cuisine for vegan options
Researching the local cuisine for vegan options is an essential strategy for any vegan traveller. Before starting your vegan travel journey, taking the time to delve into the culinary traditions of your destination can be a game-changer.
Explore local dishes, ingredients, and cooking techniques, paying attention to plant-based elements. Online resources, travel guides, and even social media can provide valuable insights into vegan-friendly restaurants, traditional dishes, and hidden gems.
By familiarizing yourself with the local food scene, you not only ensure that your dietary needs are met but also open the door to unique and flavorful experiences.
Some regions boast rich histories of plant-based cooking, while others may require a bit of adaptation. Equipped with this knowledge, you can confidently order vegan meals in local eateries, communicate your preferences effectively, and engage with locals about their food culture.
Read more about where to eat as a vegan in London, Canggu, Bali and Croatia.
Get HappyCow – Useful App for Vegan Travels
HappyCow is a popular mobile app and website that caters to vegetarians and vegans. It provides a comprehensive and user-friendly platform for travellers seeking vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants and food options around the world. With its extensive database, users can easily discover plant-based eateries, health food stores, and even vegan-friendly dishes at traditional restaurants.
Vegan and Vegetarian travellers benefit from HappyCow by having a convenient and up-to-date resource for locating vegan and vegetarian food options in unfamiliar destinations, making their dietary preferences more accessible. The app offers user reviews, ratings, and valuable information about each listed establishment, ensuring that travellers can make informed choices. This not only simplifies the process of finding suitable dining options but also enables them to explore local vegan culture and cuisine.
Overall, HappyCow empowers travellers to enjoy their journeys with confidence, knowing they can maintain their dietary choices while discovering new and delicious plant-based options worldwide.
Learn the local language – how to say I am vegan and order food?
When you’re a vegan traveller, picking up some of the local lingo can make your journey a whole lot smoother and more enjoyable. It’s all about learning a few key phrases in the local language so you can easily ask for vegan food. This way, you can let locals know what you need when it comes to your diet.
Once you’ve reached your destination, try to learn the names of a few ingredients in the local language, especially what’s vegan and what’s not. This will make it easier to read menus and communicate your preferences when you’re ordering food. If you’re stuck, you can even ask a friendly local to help you write down the ingredients in the local script on your phone.
Speaking the local language can also help you connect with the people in the area and immerse yourself in their culture. It’s a sign of respect for their way of life and shows you’re making an effort to communicate. Plus, it’ll reduce any misunderstandings and make sure you get the food you want.
There is an app that you can use to find out how to say ‘I am vegan’ and order food in 100 languages – V Cards – vegan abroad
Connect with vegans in the country – Vegan Meetups
Another awesome tip when travelling as a vegan is to link up with fellow vegans in the area. Reach out to local vegans or vegan groups to get tips on where to find great vegan food and shop for vegan goodies.
They can clue you in on the local scene and help you deal with any challenges that might pop up.
You can easily find these vegan communities on social media, like Facebook (if you search for groups like ‘Vegans in xyz’ it will show you all the groups for that country) and Instagram, or check out vegan travel blogs and forums. These groups are not only a source of advice but also a great way to meet like-minded folks and make new friends while you’re on the go. I met some of the best people at vegan meet-ups in Bali.
Another cool thing you can do is stay with local hosts and let them know about your vegan preferences. You can use The Vegan Stay to search for accommodations where you can be 100% certain that there won’t be any animal products or animal remains around you.
It’s a fantastic way to connect with the locals and get a better feel for the local culture. They might even whip up some tasty vegan meals for you or suggest some awesome vegan-friendly restaurants nearby.
Don’t forget to pack your vegan supplements
Vegan on the go – Vegan travel snacks
Packing vegan snacks when travelling as a vegan is a savvy move for any vegan traveller. Whether you’re heading out on a long journey or exploring a new destination, having a stash of plant-based snacks at the ready is a game-changer. Vegan snacks like dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, or even portable hummus packs can be a lifesaver when you’re in transit or faced with limited vegan options.
These snacks not only keep hunger at bay but also offer a taste of home while you’re on the road. It’s especially handy in places where finding vegan-friendly food can be a challenge. Plus, packing your own snacks can save you time and money, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than hunting for suitable food options.
Consider booking a vegan tour
Booking a vegan tour is an excellent way to enhance your travel experience as a vegan. These specialised tours cater to your dietary preferences, ensuring you can savour delectable plant-based cuisine while exploring your destination. Vegan tours often include visits to local vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cooking classes, and food-related cultural experiences.
Read more about a vegan cooking class in Bali
The advantage of booking a vegan tour is the convenience and confidence it offers. You won’t have to worry about finding suitable food options or explaining your dietary requirements; it’s all taken care of for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for veganism, creating a sense of community during your travels.
Moreover, vegan tours often focus on sustainable and ethical food choices, aligning with the values of many vegans. These tours can provide a deep dive into the local food culture, all while ensuring you enjoy delicious and cruelty-free meals.
Get in the kitchen – Prepare your own vegan meals
Consider getting in the kitchen and exploring local markets for more affordable food options while travelling as a vegan. Cooking some of your meals can be a budget-friendly and rewarding way to experience the local culture. Opt for accommodations with kitchen facilities, enabling you to whip up your favourite vegan dishes or experiment with local ingredients.
Visiting local markets can be a fascinating adventure in itself. You can pick up fresh, locally sourced produce, herbs, and spices to create delicious and cost-effective vegan meals. Engaging with local vendors and fellow shoppers can also provide insights into regional culinary traditions and help you discover hidden gems.
By taking this culinary approach, you not only save money but also gain a deeper appreciation for the destination and its food culture. It’s a wonderful way to savour authentic flavours, maintain your vegan lifestyle, and make the most of your travel experience.
Summary – Travelling as a vegan
Travelling as a vegan may require some extra planning and preparation, but it can be a rewarding and delicious experience. By keeping an open mind, researching the local cuisine, and using essential tools like HappyCow, you can find delicious vegan food anywhere in the world. Don’t be afraid to connect with local vegans and ask for their recommendations, and always pack some snacks for when you’re on the go.
With these tips, you can enjoy a vegan-friendly adventure and immerse yourself in the local culture while staying true to your beliefs.
What is your dream vegan travel destination, and what’s your top question or concern when it comes to vegan travel?
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Great tips!
Thanks!
I think nowadays a lot of countries have vegan people and food but just need to find it.
That is so true. It’s much easier nowadays to find vegan options. Thanks for stopping by 🙂