What are your go-to essentials for traveling as a vegan?
In addition to being vegan, I’m also gluten-free, so I never leave home without a good digestive enzyme and fennel seeds. I know, fennel seems odd, but it can help with indigestion. Generally, places have gotten pretty good about ensuring products are vegan, gluten-free, etc., but every once in a while, my stomach will say otherwise. So it’s always good to be prepared!
Aside from digestive support, I only travel with a carry-on, so I have to be a really efficient packer. To help with that (and to help the environment), I’ve swapped as many liquid products as I can for zero-waste bar products, like shampoo/conditioner bars and toothpaste tabs. This helps with space, but it’s also a big help going through security. And I always travel with a crossbody bag that zips up, to keep my hands free while wandering around while also keeping my valuables secure.
What are your top vegan travel tips for those looking to explore the world more compassionately?
First, find travel resources that you trust, like blogs or travel advisors. Long gone are the days when vegan travel was an unknown. Today, there are multiple companies leading vegan tours, hotels, and even major publications covering the topic—all it takes is a bit of Googling! Once you find restaurants, hotels, and shops that you want to visit, make sure you save them to your Google Map. This way, when you’re out and about, you can see what places are nearby or develop your daily itinerary around places you want to make sure to check out. If you think you won’t have a good cell signal, don’t forget to download the map before you go.
Secondly, if you’re traveling to a foreign country, always learn a little bit of the language. Not only is it the kind and respectful thing to do, but it can help you when in situations like ordering coffee or perusing products in shops. I normally make small flash cards with key phrases like, “I am vegan.” “Do you have a vegan option?” “I don’t eat meat or dairy,” etc., and bring the cards with me.
Do you have any vegan travel companies that you can recommend?
I am currently finalizing details for a fantastic vegan tour through Italy, so the first place I would recommend is Veggies Abroad! Guests will get to make vegan pasta and pizza, sip Italian wines, and much more. In the future, I hope to develop a few different tours to explore wonderful vegan-friendly destinations around the world, so stay tuned!
Aside from my company, there are many others helping travelers explore the world cruelty-free—from diving in Indonesia with Infinite Blue Dive Travel to small group tours with Veg Jaunts and Journeys. For others, check out my full list of incredible vegan tour companies.
What are some of the best veg-friendly hotels? Any tips for finding plant-based accommodations?
The best hotels are the ones that don’t stop at what they are putting on your plate; they consider the whole picture, from the toiletries they leave in guest rooms to their sourcing policies and how they support the local community. Many of the best ones are small independent boutiques that are often run by people who are dead set on making a difference. They don’t have to worry about reporting to a board of directors—they make decisions based on their ethics.
I always encourage people that if they stay somewhere and the options are lackluster, or they find products tested on animals, bring it to the attention of the hotel. Major hotel chains aren’t going to make changes unless the public demands it, so don’t be shy!
One of my favorite spots is a small B & B in New York’s Finger Lakes, The Black Sheep Inn and Spa. It’s run by a couple from the UK who will absolutely spoil you—don’t skip their full English breakfast! On top of starting your day with an amazing breakfast lineup, the Finger Lakes region is vegan-friendly! You’ll find vegan-friendly wineries and restaurants, and it’s home to Farm Sanctuary.
Ivy Pepin
