One of the biggest worries people have before traveling as a vegan or vegetarian is food. Will there be anything to eat? Will it be awkward to ask questions? Will I accidentally eat something I don’t want to?

The truth is: traveling plant-based doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and the right mindset, it can actually become one of the most enjoyable parts of your trip.

After years of traveling as a vegetarian in countries all over the world, I’ve learned that it’s not about finding perfection, it’s about being prepared.

Start With Honest Expectations

Not every destination is a veggie paradise, and that’s okay.

Some countries make plant-based eating effortless. Others require flexibility, creativity, and a backup plan. Knowing which kind of place you’re going to makes all the difference.

Before any trip, I ask:

• Is this destination easy, moderate, or challenging for veg travelers?
• Will I be eating mostly at restaurants, or relying on markets?
• Are there local dishes that are naturally plant-based?

Setting expectations early removes most of the stress.

You don’t need to speak the language fluently.

At minimum, learn how to say:

• “I am vegan” or “I am vegetarian”
• “No meat, no fish, no dairy, no eggs”
• “Does this contain meat or broth?”

Even a simple phrase, spoken imperfectly, shows effort and usually leads to better help.

When in doubt, write it down or save it on your phone so you can show it to someone.

2. Markets Are Your Best Friend

If there’s one universal rule of vegan travel, it’s this: markets will save you.

Fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, rice, beans, nuts, and simple snacks are available almost everywhere in the world. Even in places where restaurants feel limiting, markets offer variety and control.

Some of my best meals while traveling have been simple, market-based meals eaten on a park bench or back at my accommodation.

3. Be Cautious With Hidden Ingredients

One of the trickiest parts of veggie travel is hidden animal products.

Things to watch out for:

• Broths and stocks
• Fish sauce or shrimp paste
• Butter, ghee, or cream
• Cheese added as a “finishing touch”

When ordering, it can be helpful to say what you don’t eat beyond just “I am vegetarian / I am vegan”. Listing ingredients is often clearer than using labels. “No meat, no fish, no dairy, no eggs”

4. Adjust How You Think About Eating Out

In some countries, eating primarily plant-based is about:

• Ordering side dishes
• Customizing simple meals
• Eating the same staples more than once
• Eating street food / snacks when you see them

And that’s okay.

Not every meal needs to look like a traditional meal.

5. Bring a Few Backup Snacks

Especially for:

• Airports
• Trains and buses
• Late arrivals
• Remote areas

Having a few familiar snacks removes anxiety and gives you breathing room when options are limited.

Remember: Food Is Only One Part of the Journey

Travel is about people, places, and moments… not just meals.

If you approach plant-based travel with curiosity instead of pressure, it becomes easier and more enjoyable. You’ll learn to adapt, ask questions, and trust yourself.

And once you’ve done it a few times, you’ll realize: you can travel almost anywhere.

Veggie Trip exists to make that process easier – one country at a time.

Want to keep exploring?

click on the map to discover more veggie travel destinations.

• Instagram