Are you exlporing your first vegan travel abroad?
Travelling abroad for the first time as a vegan can feel equal parts thrilling and terrifying.
I remember my first trip—my suitcase was packed, my excitement was sky-high, and my stomach? Not so sure.
Would I find food I could actually enjoy? And would I become the awkward guest asking endless questions about butter or broth?
This guide is the friendly hand I wish I had on that first trip.
I’ll walk you through choosing a destination, practical packing, how to communicate dietary needs, useful apps and websites, and plenty of tips to keep you fed, healthy, and smiling on your first vegan travel abroad.
Why Vegan Travel Feels Different (and Why That’s Great)
Being vegan while travelling opens you up to a different kind of adventure.
Food becomes a map: local markets, street stalls, and the homes of kind strangers who offer tastes you wouldn’t have found otherwise.
Often, plant-based travel sparks conversations with locals and other travellers—people are curious and usually delighted to help.
Yes, there are challenges. In some places veganism is well-known and catered to; in others it’s not.
But the challenge is part of the fun. You learn creative ways to combine local staples—rice, beans, fresh fruit, and legumes—into delicious meals.
Step 1 — Pick a Supportive Destination (Your First Trip Matters)
If you’re nervous, choose a vegan-friendly city for your first time.
These places make the logistics easy so you can focus on exploring:
- Berlin, Germany — Often called Europe’s vegan capital with restaurants and bakeries galore.
- London, UK — Global cuisine, countless plant-based menus, and easy access to groceries.
- Bangkok, Thailand — Street food heaven with lots of naturally vegan dishes (with a few language caveats).
- Tel Aviv, Israel — Hummus, salads, and an incredible vegan scene.
- New York City, USA — You’ll never be short of vegan options.
Berlin TV-Tower
If you want a meaningful cultural experience, consider India (huge vegetarian traditions where you can often request dairy-free dishes), Ethiopia (injera and lentil stews), or Japan (seek out temple cuisine and communicate about fish-based broths).
Pro tip: Use HappyCow to preview vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants in your chosen city before you go.
Step 2 — Learn and Carry Helpful Local Phrases
Language can be a roadblock—but it can also be your greatest ally. Learn simple, clear phrases that explain you don’t eat meat, fish, eggs or dairy. Keep a small printed card with those phrases, and/or save translations in Google Translate for offline use.
Examples to have ready (adapt for local language):
- “I am vegan. I do not eat meat, fish, eggs, or dairy.”
- “Does this dish contain milk, cheese, butter, egg, fish sauce or broth?”
- “Can this be made without animal products?”
Step 3 — Packing List: Small Things That Make a Big Difference
Pack items that reduce friction and make mealtimes easier:
- Reusable cutlery and a small food container — perfect for markets or street-food stalls.
- Protein snacks — nut butter sachets, roasted chickpeas, vegan protein bars.
- Seasoning and nutritional yeast — a tiny jar of yeast or spices elevates simple rice-and-veggie meals.
- Collapsible silicone cup/bottle — many countries encourage reusable bottles.
- Vegan emergency card — a clear card explaining your diet in the local language (useful at restaurants or family meals).
On my first trip I packed travel-sized peanut butter packets and a small container of mixed nuts — these kept me calm and fed during long transit days.
Step 4 — Use Apps and Websites That Save Time
Modern travel apps are a vegan’s best friend. The ones I use constantly:
- HappyCow — worldwide vegan/vegetarian restaurant finder.
- abillion — user reviews, photos and vegan product finds.
- Google Translate — save key phrases offline.
- Google Maps — save offline maps and pin vegan restaurants.
- Airbnb — look for places with kitchens so you can cook when needed.
Step 5 — Make Markets Your Happy Place
Local markets are where travel and veganism shine together. Fresh fruit, roasted corn, grilled vegetables, and local breads are often your best options. Markets also let you sample small bites affordably and chat with vendors about how the food is prepared.
Step 6 — When Things Don’t Go Perfectly (They Won’t—And That’s Okay)
Occasionally you’ll encounter language mix-ups, cheese on a salad, or dishes cooked in butter. Handle these moments with patience:
- Be polite and clear. A friendly explanation is often enough for staff to make a small change.
- Improvise. Combine sides—rice, beans, salad—and you’ve got a full plate.
- Forgive yourself. If a mistake means you accidentally eat something you didn’t intend, it happens. Learn and move on.
Step 7 — Connect with Other Vegans
Look for local vegan meetups, cooking classes, or guided food tours. These are fantastic ways to make friends and learn where the best hidden vegan gems are. Use Meetup, Facebook groups, or the local listings on HappyCow.
Sample One-Day Vegan Travel Plan (Beginner-Friendly City)
Here’s an example of what a relaxed vegan day can look like in a vegan-friendly city:
- Breakfast: Farmers’ market—fresh fruit, coffee with plant milk, and a savory pastry or porridge.
- Morning: Walk to a local museum or neighbourhood. Grab a street snack—roasted corn, falafel or samosa.
- Lunch: Vegan cafe—a hearty bowl with grains, legumes, roasted veg and a tahini drizzle.
- Afternoon: Visit a market for spices or snacks. Try a traditional dish adapted to vegan.
- Dinner: Vegan tasting menu, or tapas-style plates shared with friends you met during the day.
Safety, Health & Nutrition While Traveling
Staying healthy makes every trip better.
A few tips:
- Keep hydrated and carry rehydration sachets for long travel days.
- Balance carbohydrates with protein-rich snacks so you stay energized.
- Pack a small first-aid kit with basic remedies for digestive upsets.
FAQ — Quick Answers for First-Time Vegan Travellers
Will I starve?
Almost never. With a bit of planning, you’ll find enough to eat—especially in cities. Pack snacks for peace of mind.
How do I explain ‘vegan’ to restaurant staff?
Use a short card in the local language or a translation saved on Google Translate. Be specific about animal products you avoid (eggs, dairy, meat, fish).
Should I cook while I’m away?
If you can, yes—having a kitchen saves money and stress. Even a single home-cooked meal feels comforting after long days of eating out.
Final Thoughts — Your First Vegan Travel Abroad Is Waiting
Your first vegan travel abroad doesn’t need to be perfect—just curious.
Expect to learn, improvise, and make delicious discoveries. The more you travel, the easier it becomes, and the more you’ll see that plant-based food is a passport to connection, culture and kindness.
Liked this guide?
Share it with a friend who’s nervous about their first vegan trip abroad. For more travel tips and plant-based recipes, visit EatingPlantBasedZA.com.
— Zama Zincume
