Plant-Powered Journeys: Top Tips for Eating Well While Travelling as a plant-based eater

Travelling is always such an exciting prospect, but for those following a plant-based diet, it can present some unique challenges. Menus with limited-no options, airports where the only option is $12 for 6 cashews and travel companions who you don’t want to be a burden on. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve opted for the chips and salad sides from a menu just to avoid being a royal pain in the ass to my dining companions.

With a bit of planning and creativity, eating well while traveling on a plant-based diet is not only possible but can also be a fun adventure. Keep reading to see my top tips to help you maintain your plant-powered lifestyle while on the road.

Research Your Destination:

Before you start packing your bags, take some time to research the local food scene at your destination. Identify plant-based restaurants, grocery stores, and farmers' markets in the area. If there are no exclusive plant-based restaurants in the area review the menus of any highly rated omni restaurants and cafes and find the ones that have the best vegan options.

Get The Apps:

Apps like HappyCow can be incredibly helpful in finding vegan and vegetarian-friendly options.

Pack Smart:

Be prepared by packing some plant-based snacks for the journey. Your favourite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and protein bars are not only great for your body and your brain, but they’re also convenient and won't perish quickly. Having a stash of these items can be a lifesaver during long flights, road trips or just to get you through to your next meal. If you’re road-tripping or travelling somewhere that luggage isn’t an obstacle, I highly recommend a Sundays Insulated Basket to keep your food fresh.

Stay Hydrated:

I cannot stress enough, how important water is, keeping your body hydrated will keep you feeling full between meals and keep your brain functioning well, especially in the summer, it can be too easy to skimp on water, only to end up with heat exhaustion. Travel itself can also be dehydrating. Make sure to always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever you get the chance, opting for filtered or bottled water wherever possible. These days even airports are filled with water bottle refilling stations.

Learn Key Phrases:

If you're traveling to a destination where you might face a language barrier, learn some essential phrases related to your dietary preferences. Being able to communicate your dietary needs will make it easier to navigate menus and ask for suitable options.

Choose Accommodations with Cooking Facilities:

When booking accommodations, look for places that have kitchen facilities. This allows you to prepare simple plant-based meals and ensures you have more control over your food choices. Eating out is fun, but it’s also expensive, the more you eat out the more money you spend and the more foreign ingredients you’ll be putting into your body. If you can balance the quick and easy home cooking, with the eating out, your bank account and gut will both thank you for it.

Flexibility is Key:

While planning is essential, be open to trying local specialties that might be a little more processed than your normal plant-based diet. You can always make adjustments to meals on menus to make them more your taste, and you might discover some delicious meals that you can recreate at home using a more wholefood approach.

Connect with Locals:

Locals often have the best insights into where to find the best foods in the area. Strike up conversations when visiting health food shops or small locally owned gift shops, ask for recommendations, and you might uncover hidden gems that you wouldn’t have found otherwise.

Bring Your Own:

Consider bringing some non-perishable plant-based staples with you, such as instant oats with nuts and seeds, nut butter, or vegan protein powder with a small stick mixer or on-the-go blender. These items can serve as a backup in case finding suitable food becomes challenging and will allow you to have a good hearty breakfast before venturing out so you can start the day on a full stomach.  

Research Airline Meal Options:

If you're flying, check with the airline in advance to see if they offer plant-based meal options. Many airlines now cater to various dietary preferences if you order a “special meal” in advance, and selecting a plant-based meal can ensure you have a satisfying and nourishing in-flight experience. Recently when flying with Qantas I was very surprised to find out that they were serving a plant-based ravioli.

Be Adventurous with Local Produce:

Embrace the opportunity to explore local markets and stock up on fresh, seasonal produce. Not only does this add abundance and variety to your diet, but it also allows you to experience the flavours of your destination, remember even an apple can taste incredibly different when grown in different soil with a different climate.

Traveling as a plant-based eater may require a bit of extra planning, but it's entirely achievable with the right mindset and preparation. By researching, packing wisely, and staying flexible, you can enjoy your journey while nourishing your body with delicious and wholesome plant-based meals. Remember this is a lifestyle not a diet and these are hurdles not road blocks. Bon voyage and happy plant-powered travels!