NAVIGATING TRAVEL DAYS AS A VEGAN: TOP TIPS TO NOT GET HANGRY

More thought probably goes into the food situations while we are travelling than literally anything else. Making sure there is vegan food available wherever we are is so important! I eat often and get hungry frequently (can I blame this on being a Taurus???), anyways I always make sure I am well researched and prepared when it comes to vegan food availability.

Travelling is exciting and the notion of discovering new vegan eats gives me life, but travelling as a vegan can also be slightly daunting, especially when it comes to navigating travel days around places you have never been before. When on road trips you may only come across gas stations where options are limited and often super unhealthy and sometimes flights have no vegan options on offer at least nothing that will keep you satiated, or the process to request a vegan meal is just silly or overpriced. However, travelling as a vegan is getting easier all of the time and it's super doable to stay true to your plant based lifestyle and eat well on your travels. It just requires a little bit of planning, preparation, and research. So let's get into it.

Top Tips for Travelling As a Vegan

1. Research and Plan Ahead: I can't stress this one enough! Research is king. Before setting off on your adventure, take some time to research vegan-friendly eateries and shops along your route and at your destination. You want to be prepared for both the journey and the fun that comes when you reach where you are going. Sites like HappyCow can be invaluable resources for finding vegan restaurants, cafes, and markets wherever you go. I also like to use Google Maps to see what comes up in different areas. Planning your meals and snacks in advance can save you from the stress of scrambling to find vegan options while on the move. It's so stressful to be walking down the street hungry and in search of somewhere with vegan options, something that has happened to me on more than one occasion when I haven't had time to properly investigate beforehand. Planning ahead can eliminate this possibly stressful scenario.

2. Pack Vegan Snacks: What is a travel day without snacks anyways? Packing a variety of vegan snacks is essential for keeping hunger at bay during long journeys. Think of bringing things that are easy to carry like nuts, seeds, bars, fruit and veggies (make sure you can bring them on the plane if you are flying), crackers, bagels, sandwiches, or overnight oats. I also never go on a trip with my protein powder and shaker. That way I know as long as I have water, I'm good. Bringing snacks and food from home is economical and more sustainable than buying takeaways or prepackaged items. It also ensures you will have good options that you enjoy for the duration of your outing, whether it's a travel day or a day out and about.

3. Bring Your Own Reusable Utensils and Containers: We always want to try and eliminate our waste. Try to be prepared for impromptu meals by bringing your own reusable utensils, containers, and water bottle. This can be especially important on travel days when you may be getting quick to grab items which often comes in single use plastics and disposable containers and cutlery.

4. Research Your Airline: It's always advisable to research if your airline has vegan meal options if you happen to be flying. Some airlines now do offer vegan meal options such as Lufthansa, Singapore, American Airlines, and Emirates. Be sure to check your individual airlines and be aware that most often these meals need to be booked in advance at least 24 hours before your flight. If vegan options aren't available on your flight, consider packing your own meal or research the airport food options so that you can buy something to bring on the plane with you. And remember the above tip, don't forget to pack your favourite snacks!

5. Communicate Your Dietary Needs: I have gotten much better at doing this one. Don't hesitate to communicate your dietary preferences and restrictions to airline staff, at your accommodations, and at establishments where you are eating. Most places these days are willing to accommodate special dietary requirements (sometimes advance notice is needed). For example, when we book accommodations where breakfast is included I always ask ahead of time if they can accommodate a vegan option. Politely informing them of your vegan diet ensures you'll have suitable options available to enjoy without any hassle or awkward situations in the moment.

6. Explore Local Markets and Food Shops: This is something I love doing! Finding local vegan and natural food shops at our destinations gives me a thrill....seems weird but I'm not sorry about it lol. You can always find some fun new snacks and ingredients to try too! Get to know the place you are visiting, support the local shops, and immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine by visiting farmers' markets and food shops at your destination. If you are staying in an airbnb type situation, stocking up on fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and other vegan staples to create your own meals or snacks yourself can also save you a lot of money throughout your stay.

7. Learn Vegan Phrases in the Local Language: This can be a life saver. If you're traveling to a country where English isn't widely spoken, it can be helpful to learn some vegan-related phrases in the local language. Knowing how to ask for vegan options or clarify ingredients can make dining out much easier and ensure you avoid any awkward language barriers or accidentally ordering something that contains animal products.

8. Pack Vegan Essentials: I mentioned above that I always bring protein powder with me. Other things you may like to carry include vegan protein bars, or powdered plant based milk for coffee if you don't drink it black. I can drink black coffee but it is definitely not my preference and I've been in the situation more than once where I am at a restaurant with vegan food options but no plant based milks in site so having an option you can carry can be golden. I will sometimes also mix in a scoop of protein powder in my coffee as an alternative, delicious.

9. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Traveling can be busy and sometimes feel hectic with so much to see and do (check out some of my offbeat slow travel articles for ideas on slowing down during your trips!). We don't want to miss anything but remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey (coffee sadly, doesn't count). Never leave your accommodation without a refillable water bottle and aim to drink water throughout the day. On top of this try to prioritize eating whole food plant based meals whenever you are able. The call of vegan junk food can be strong but your body (and energy levels) will thank you for getting some good solid nutrients into your days.

10. Be Flexible and Open-Minded: Despite your very thought out planning and research, unexpected situations can happen while traveling as a vegan. Showing up very excited to a vegan restaurant that has since closed down for example. Yes, this has happened to us on more than one occasion and the sadness is real lol. So it's essential to remain open-minded when faced with a situation where you are not sure what your options are going to be. Think of it as an adventure as you embark down an unknown street in search of vegan cuisine. You may actually be surprised and find an amazing option you had no idea about (this has happened to us as well!). And of course you will be armed and ready with those vegan snacks in your bag to hold you over until you find something.

Final Thoughts

So I hope this little top vegan travelling tips post has helped you feel more prepared when you head out on your next sustainable travel adventure. With a little preparation, knowledge, and creativity, navigating airports, train stations, and unfamiliar destinations as a vegan can be a fun and often super delicious experience. So, maybe it's time to pack your bags, choose some vegan snack options, and hit the road on your next vegan travel adventure? It's always a good day for a road trip!

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Yours in sustainable travel,

Krystle

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