Traveling as a vegan can sometimes feel like navigating an obstacle course of meat-heavy menus, confusing ingredients, and less-than-ideal options. But don’t worry, fellow wanderlust-filled plant-based eater—traveling vegan is not only possible, it's totally achievable with a bit of prep, a sprinkle of creativity, and the right attitude! Whether you're road-tripping through Europe or backpacking across Asia, this guide will show you how to keep your vegan diet on track, all while exploring the world.

Embrace Vegan Travel with Confidence

So you’ve decided to live a plant-based lifestyle and now, you're ready to hit the road. Whether you're embarking on a short holiday or an epic adventure across the globe, being a vegan doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the experiences you want to have. Sure, it can sometimes be challenging to find vegan food in places where the concept of plant-based eating hasn’t quite caught on, but there are plenty of ways to make sure you're well-fed and happy as you explore the world.

Here are my tried-and-tested tips for travelling as a vegan, backed by personal experience (I've been to over 8 countries already!). Get ready to have an amazing time—no matter where in the world your journey takes you.

Plan Ahead, But Don't Stress Too Much

Planning is key when it comes to vegan travel, but don’t get bogged down by overthinking. Just like any other type of travel, the best way to ensure a smooth experience is to do a bit of research in advance. Look into the destination you're visiting and see how vegan-friendly it is. Are there good vegan restaurants? Will there be enough fresh fruits and veggies available in local markets?

For example, Thailand, Germany, and the USA are some of the easiest countries to travel as a vegan, with plenty of dedicated vegan spots and plant-based dishes available. On the other hand, some countries may have fewer options, so it’s important to be flexible and prepare.

Pack Your Own Meals

Here’s where you can get a bit old-school: pack your own food! If you're unsure about the availability of vegan meals on your trip, or you're travelling to more remote areas, always pack a lunch, dinner, or some snacks that will keep you going throughout the day.

When I’m travelling on long bus rides, flights, or to places where I’m not sure about the vegan options, I bring sandwiches, fresh fruit, or a good old cold pressed juice. Yes, it might sound like something your mum would do, but trust me, it’ll save you from grumbling stomachs and desperate searches for a non-vegan option! It’s especially useful when you’re travelling for extended periods, where the likelihood of finding a vegan-friendly meal can be quite slim.

If you're looking for convenience, you might want to try Root Kitchen's vegan ready meals. Whether you're heading out on a short trip or a long-haul adventure, having a few pre-packed frozen meals on hand can make your journey easier.

Request Special Meals When Booking Flights

One of the easiest ways to stay vegan while flying is to request your special meal in advance. Most airlines provide special meal options (including vegan) when you're booking your flight. Don’t rely on last-minute requests, as many airlines only prepare the exact amount of special meals ordered in advance. If you don’t select a vegan meal during booking, you usually have until 24 hours before your flight to update your preferences.

This goes beyond flying, too—when booking tours or excursions, always check to see if the meals provided cater to your plant-based needs. If not, kindly ask if they can accommodate you or look for another tour operator.

Pack Snacks, or Stock Up Locally

Packing snacks is one of the best ways to ensure you’re not left hungry when travelling. Many airports, bus stations, and train stations will have overpriced snacks—often deep-fried chips or highly processed goods that may or may not even be vegan (side-eyeing you, "veggie" crisps).

My favourite travel snacks are trail mixes, protein bars, fresh fruit, and even some chocolate (because, who doesn’t love a bit of chocolate on the road?). When I arrive at my destination, I always stock up on local fruits and veggies, seeds, and maybe even a plant-based protein or hummus if I’m lucky enough to find it.

If you're staying for a longer period, consider visiting local markets to gather fresh ingredients to create your own meals. Cooking your own food is not only cheaper but a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experiment with new ingredients!

For a quick and easy option, Root Kitchen also offers delivered vegan meals that are perfect for your journey. You can enjoy healthy, frozen meals that require little to no preparation—ideal for travellers who want to eat plant-based without fuss.

Stay in Accommodation with a Kitchen

If you're really committed to keeping your plant-based lifestyle going strong, book accommodation that comes with a kitchen. Many hostels, guesthouses, and even Airbnb properties offer access to shared or private kitchens. Being able to prepare your own meals is an absolute game-changer when you're on the road.

Not only does it help you save money, but it also allows you to fully control what you're eating, ensuring your meals are vegan-friendly and nutritious. Plus, you can explore local food markets for inspiration and create plant-based versions of traditional dishes. When I stayed in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico, I was able to purchase fresh produce at the market and make delicious, hearty meals in my accommodation—on a budget too!

Research Vegan Restaurants and Apps

Before heading to a new destination, use apps like HappyCow or The Vegan Passport to locate vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes. These apps are a lifesaver and have saved me on more than one occasion when I’ve been in a city with limited plant-based options. You can also follow local vegan influencers on social media for recommendations.

If you can't find a restaurant that’s exclusively vegan, look for places that offer veggie options or adaptable dishes. Buffets are often great because they offer the flexibility to build your own plate—often with lots of rice, beans, veggies, and salads that are naturally vegan-friendly.

Get Creative and Cook Local Dishes

One of my favourite parts of travelling is tasting new foods and experimenting with local ingredients. So why not do it with a plant-based twist? Some of the best travel experiences come from visiting local markets and sourcing fresh ingredients to create your own plant-based versions of traditional dishes.

In places like Mexico and Thailand, I’ve had the chance to try some incredible plant-based recipes using fresh, local ingredients. Often, all it takes is swapping out meat for a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or beans, and replacing animal-based broths with vegetable stock.

Volunteer or Work-Trade for Free Accommodation

If you’re looking to travel long-term while maintaining a plant-based diet, work-trading or volunteering is a fantastic option. Websites like Worldpackers and Workaway list opportunities where you can exchange your time and skills for free accommodation (and often meals too!). Some work-trade placements specifically focus on sustainability, plant-based living, and eco-friendly practices, making them perfect for a travelling vegan.

I’ve done work exchanges in countries like Spain, Hawaii, and Brazil. Not only did I get to stay in beautiful locations, but I also had access to a fully-equipped kitchen, which meant I could cook my own meals, help with plant-based food preparation, and connect with others who shared my values.

The Best Vegan-Friendly Countries for Travel

Now that you’ve got the tips to travel as a vegan, let's look at a few of the best countries around the world that are super vegan-friendly:

• Germany: Germany is a mecca for vegan food lovers, with thousands of vegan-friendly restaurants. Whether you're in Berlin or Munich, you're bound to find delicious plant-based meals on every corner.
• United States: Major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco have an abundance of vegan restaurants and grocery stores that make travelling as a vegan an absolute breeze.
• Thailand: From coconut curries to fresh fruit, Thailand is a tropical paradise for any plant-based eater. Just be sure to ask for dishes without fish sauce!
• Australia: Melbourne and Sydney are bustling vegan cities with amazing options, from vegan cafés to plant-based burgers that will make your taste buds sing!
• Poland: Known for its affordable vegan food scene, Poland is a hidden gem for plant-based eaters, with a thriving vegan culture and plenty of options throughout the country.

Conclusion

Being a travelling vegan might seem daunting at first, but it’s far from impossible. With a bit of planning, creativity, and an open mind, you can explore the world and maintain a plant-based diet without any stress. Remember to pack your own snacks, research vegan options ahead of time, and embrace the joy of cooking your own meals with fresh local ingredients.

The world is your oyster (and there’s a vegan version of that too)! Happy travels, and may your journeys be filled with delicious plant-based meals and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re looking for vegan frozen meals or even delivered vegan meals to simplify your travel, check out Root Kitchen for convenient, high-quality options.

If you’ve got any tips or stories about vegan travel, drop them in the comments below! 🌍💚