HOW TO TRAVEL VEGAN

Hey there, fellow plant-based explorers! If you're as passionate about vegan living as I am and also love to travel, you've probably encountered some unique challenges along the way. But fear not! In this article, I'm going to share my personal tips and hacks to make your vegan travel experience not just tasty but also eco-friendly and unforgettable. From planning before takeoff to savoring flavors abroad, let's embark on this adventure together.

Get Set, Go: Pre-Travel Planning

Destination Scouting: Before you even think about packing, do some digging on vegan-friendly travel destinations. Some places are veggie heaven, while others might need a bit more effort. You can check out Veggie Hotels, they offer exclusively vegan/vegetarian hotels all around the world, think wellness retreats in Bali or fluffy vegan pancakes at an Italian Air BnB! 

Accommodation Choices: Opt for vegan-friendly lodgings or ones equipped with kitchens so you can whip up your vegan delights.

Local Lingo: Brush up on essential phrases in the local language to help you communicate your dietary preferences. Use those local phrases you've learned to convey your dietary preferences clearly and kindly.Bring Allergen Cards in the local language that explain your dietary restrictions.

Packing Like a Pro

Snack Stash: Load up on vegan snacks like trail mix, dried fruits, and energy bars for those on-the-go cravings, you never know they will help you out in a crunch.

Eco-Essentials: Don't forget your reusable utensils, a water bottle, collapsible if possible, and a handy container for those restaurant leftovers. It's not just about taste; it's about reducing waste.

Navigating Airport and In-Flight Meals

Airport Vegan Eats: More airports are hopping on the vegan train. Google “Vegan meals and restaurants in *insert Airport*” It will give you names, meal tips and concourse info- So handy when you’re planning for a long layover. Look for vegan-friendly eateries or quick bites while waiting for your flight, and carry an extra meal on the flight, if you are in doubt of the availability of vegan snacks or meals. Another important part is to Pre-Order Vegan Meals for each leg of your journey if possible,most airlines offer vegan meal options if you give them a heads-up in advance of 48 hours. Don't miss out on this, especially for long haul flights!

Feasting Vegan-Style Abroad

Dive into Local Cuisine: One of the perks of traveling is savoring local flavors. Dig into research on traditional vegan dishes and vegan-friendly eateries at your destination. Get creative with mixing sides to create full meals if you find yourself in a not so ideal situation.

Apps to the Rescue: This has been a life saver! Download apps like HappyCow or TripAdvisor to uncover vegan gems near you. Happy Cow, in my opinion, has been a game-changer for us vegans on our culinary adventures. This fantastic website and app serve up a comprehensive list of all the vegan and vegan-friendly eateries including supermarkets in basically any place you desire. What sets it apart? Well, not only do you get a list, but you also get user reviews and, oftentimes, up-to-date photos of the food. It's a treasure trove of vegan dining options.

Instagram & Tic Toc are another two major life lines, a little trick I swear by. Use hashtags to uncover the best vegan options in any city. A simple search for hashtags like #veganTulum or #veganLima will lead you to posts by creators who share must-visit vegan restaurants and insider scoop.These hashtags will also give you some great insights into your own city :)

 Stay Open-Minded, keep an open heart and palate, and be ready to discover incredible vegan delights you've never imagined. Vegan travel isn't just about food; it's engaging in an entire experience, while commiting to a sustainable and compassionate way of life. With some thoughtful planning, a healthy dash of adventurous spirit, and a willingness to explore and adapt, you can explore the globe while staying true to your values. So, pack your bags, embark on your vegan adventure, and relish the delectable plant-based treasures the world has to offer! Safe travels and let me know what tips and tricks you've learnt as well as what your city recommendations have while embarking on your travels. 

1. Research vegan-friendly restaurants in your destination.
2. Pack snacks to help you stay full and energized while traveling.
3. Bring a few vegan staples with you, such as plant-based milks, nut butters, or vegan protein bars.
4. Make sure to look for vegan-friendly options at airports and train stations.
5. Find out if your hotel room has a refrigerator or microwave if you need to store or prepare meals.
6. Ask restaurant staff for vegan substitutions or options.
7. Make sure to double-check the ingredients on food labels before buying and eating them.
8. Consider staying at vegan-friendly accommodations, such as vegetarian hotels or hostels.
9. Opt for fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based whole foods when in doubt.
10. Reach out to the local vegan community for advice and recommendations.
11. Be prepared with vegan restaurant cards or ingredients translated into the local language.
12. Don't forget to bring your vitamins and supplements with you.
13. Ask servers and chefs how vegan dishes are prepared to ensure they're truly plant-based.