This blog wouldn’t be mine if I didn’t talk about sustainability and plant-based eating. In Belgium, skipping meat and dairy is fairly easy. But on the road? It can be a real challenge. Luckily, challenges keep travel fun, right? 😉
Here are my top vegetarian or vegan travel tips while staying happy, healthy, and stress-free.
Learn the basics in the local language
Not every culture is familiar with vegetarianism or veganism. In some countries, “no meat” might still include chicken or fish. Be clear and polite when explaining your dietary preferences, most people will appreciate your honesty.
Tip: Carry a small card in the local language explaining your dietary restrictions. It’s a simple tool that can prevent misunderstandings.
Do your homework
Google is your best friend! Before you go, search for veg-friendly spots online. Another option is to surf to the Happy Cow website or app which finds suitable places for you nearby. You could also join certain Facebook groups or find suitable places through hashtags and geo-tags on Instagram.
Google is your best friend! Before you go, search for veg-friendly spots online. Sites like HappyCow make it easy to find suitable restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores nearby. You can also check Facebook groups or Instagram hashtags to discover hidden gems.
Tip: Look for blogs written by locals as they often share plant-based options that apps don’t cover.
Pick veg-friendly destinations
Some countries make it much easier to eat plant-based. India, Israel, Indonesia, and many European countries have a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
Tip: Even within veg-friendly countries, regional differences exist. Research the local specialties in advance so you can enjoy authentic dishes without stress.
Keep an open mindset
Flexibility can make your travels smoother. For example, during a week in the Peruvian jungle, my host prepared meals to suit my diet, but I also tried freshly caught fish to show respect for his effort.
Tip: You decide how strict you want to be, traveling is about experiencing the culture too.
Cook your own meal
Many hostels and guesthouses offer kitchens where you can cook your own meals. If you use platforms like Couchsurfing, polite communication can often allow you to make arrangements to prepare your own food.
Tip: Cooking locally can also be a fun cultural experience, visit markets and try new ingredients.
Pack your own food
For multi-day hikes, road trips, or remote destinations, bring pre-made or portable meals that fit your diet. This ensures you stay nourished and avoids situations where plant-based options are scarce.
Tip: Trail mixes, instant oats, or dehydrated meals can be lightweight, easy to pack, and nutritious.
Food tours
Plant-based travel is becoming increasingly popular, and many food tours now offer vegetarian or vegan options. Some cities even have specialized plant-based food tours, allowing you to explore local cuisine without worrying about meat.
Tip: Check local vegan communities on social media, they often host secret supper clubs, street food tours, or pop-ups that are amazing for travelers.
