As a vegan travel writer, it’s my job to show that it is possible, and even simple, to travel as a vegan. With a little research and preparation, there’s no need to worry about starving or surviving on plate after plate of french fries. Traveling successfully as a vegan does take a little bit of extra attention, though, and one of the best things you can do is have a few extra things in your bag.
Smart Phone
This is probably obvious in today’s world, but having a phone that you can easily access the internet and apps makes a world of difference when traveling with special dietary needs. My go to app is HappyCow – it’s a very user-friendly resource where you can search for vegan, veg and vegan-friendly restaurants, stores, markets and more in cities worldwide.
Back-Up Snacks
I always, always have some kind of snack in my bag. They mostly come in the form of Clif bars, chocolate bars, and fruit. I eat and snack a lot and my appetite tends to be higher when I’m traveling, so it’s important that I always have something on hand to eat.
Reusable Straw & Bamboo Cutlery
As animal and environmental advocates, vegans should also be aware of plastic pollution. Two of the easiest ways to cut down on single-use plastic (after a plant based diet, of course) is carrying a stainless steel straw and a cutlery set with you everywhere. I do this at home and while traveling. When you’re traveling, you’re likely eating out a lot and this can really come in hand!
Bamboo Toothbrush & Other Hygiene Products
Plastic toothbrushes are another problem and are easily replaced with a bamboo one and you can even get a nice bamboo toothbrush holder to go with it. Additionally, you should always carry all vegan and cruelty free hygiene products that you need because it may be a pain to find on the road. Most of the free products in hotels are not vegan – although I have noticed more and more lately that most are cruelty free so that’s a great step.
Nutritional Yeast & Sriracha
Sometimes the only food options you can find are bland and not that exciting. Easy way to spice things up? Carry nutritional yeast (superfood that has a “cheesy” flavor) and sriracha. Even if the food isn’t bland, you can never have too much nutritional yeast or sriracha.
Insulated Water Bottle
Water is life. You’re probably walking more, hiking more and just generally more active when you travel so it’s important to stay hydrated. Carrying a reusable water bottle with you will eliminate plastic bottles, encourage you to drink more water and save you money!
For the Ladies: Diva Cup
Most tampons and pads are not vegan and cruelty free. That’s right – they’re usually tested on animals. Additionally, they’re full of chemicals that are not good for your body, cost money and not always accessible in all countries. One of the best purchases I’ve ever made? My diva cup. It also has aided in alleviating my debilitating cramps and, honestly, time spent dealing with my menstruation as you only have to change it every 12 hours.
Lip Balm
My lips can’t survive without lip balm. They seem to get chapped easily especially depending on the location I’m in so I always have two to three lip balms with me. There are a few vegan brands out there – just make sure to check the ingredients especially for beeswax.
Traveling as a vegan has been a weird concern for many. I’ve heard many people say they could be vegan but they travel too much. That’s just not true anymore though. There are way too many resources out there now, way too many ways to translate languages, way too many vegan friendly cities and countries now. Worst case scenario – just have a stocked bag full of everything you need!
