For many people, traveling is exciting — but for vegans, it often comes with one extra challenge: finding food and staying consistent with values on the road. The good news is that with the right preparation and tools, traveling as a vegan can be smooth and enjoyable.

Why planning matters

Unlike at home, where you know your local grocery stores and restaurants, being in a new city (or country) can mean fewer obvious vegan choices. Planning helps you avoid stress, last-minute fast food, and situations where you’re left with only a salad.

Practical tips for vegan travelers

Research before you go

• Look up vegan restaurants on HappyCow or Google Maps before the trip
• Check if your hotel or Airbnb is near supermarkets and plant-based cafes
• Search country-specific vegan blogs for cultural tips

Pack vegan essentials

• Bring snacks like nuts, protein bars, or dried fruit for flights and long train rides
• Carry a small container of peanut butter or hummus — easy protein for bread or veggies
• A reusable water bottle and cutlery help reduce plastic and give flexibility with street food

Learn key phrases

If you’re traveling abroad, memorize or save phrases like:

• “Is this vegan?”
• “No milk, no eggs, no cheese”
• Local translations of “vegan” and “plant-based”

Be flexible

Sometimes, being vegan abroad means compromise — you may not find mock meats or fancy vegan restaurants. Focus on natural plant-based staples: rice, beans, vegetables, fruits, pasta, and local specialties.

Best apps for vegan travel

• HappyCow – the largest global directory of vegan and vegetarian restaurants
• abillion – reviews of vegan dishes and sustainable products worldwide
• Vanilla Bean – Europe-focused app with curated vegan options
• Google Translate – scan labels to check for non-vegan ingredients
• Yuka – helps analyze product ingredients (cosmetics and food)

Examples of vegan-friendly destinations

• Berlin, Germany – often called the vegan capital of Europe
• Tel Aviv, Israel – vibrant street food scene with falafel and hummus
• London, UK – endless plant-based restaurants and supermarkets
• Lisbon, Portugal – fast-growing vegan scene with local twists

Less vegan-friendly regions exist too, but with preparation, even traditional cuisines can be adapted.

Related searches

• best vegan travel apps
• vegan-friendly cities in Europe
• vegan snacks for flights
• how to say vegan in different languages
• vegan travel tips 2025

FAQ

What if my airline doesn’t offer vegan meals?

Order a “VGML” (vegan meal) when booking, or bring your own snacks if the airline doesn’t provide one.

Can I travel vegan in meat-heavy countries?

Yes. Focus on naturally plant-based local foods. For example, in Eastern Europe, potatoes, beans, and breads are staples; in Asia, rice and vegetable dishes are common.

Do I need to bring supplements while traveling?

It’s smart to pack your regular B12 supplement and any essentials like vitamin D or Omega-3 capsules, since you may not find them easily abroad.