Traveling The World As A Vegan: Best Tips & Tricks
Although the recent pandemic put a brief halt to global travel, it seems like borders are finally starting to open up again! For globe-trotters like myself, the past two years have felt like far longer.
I’m currently planning my first out-of-the-country trip in over two years, and I couldn’t be more excited. So, I decided to give you all some helpful tips for traveling the world as a vegan! From packing your vegan-friendly essentials to researching local vegan cuisine, I’ll give you a step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to prepare for.
If it’s your first time traveling the world as a vegan, then I understand it can be a bit daunting. However, I promise you that it’s a LOT easier than it sounds. As long as you think ahead and do a bit of simple planning, you’ll have one of the best adventures of your life!
Step One: Have Your COVID-19 Vaccination Records
Prior to the pandemic, the only thing you needed to travel across borders was a plane ticket and a passport. However, most countries are requiring all foreign visitors to show proof that they’ve received their COVID-19 vaccine. This includes the two-week waiting period after you receive the vaccine.
So, if you haven’t gotten your vaccine yet, make sure that you allow time to get your shot as well as an extra fourteen days before you plan on traveling out of the country.
Get Your COVID Test Before Flying Back Home
To help control the spread of the virus and prevent flights from being infected, U.S. law requires that all passengers show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before flying internationally. This applies whether you’re leaving the country or coming back to the country.
According to CDC guidelines, you must take the test no more than one day prior to your departure date. Since this is a bit of a tight timeline, you’ll want to make sure that you take a rapid test that provides quick results.
Since you’ll be flying in a small, enclosed space, you’ll also be required to wear your mask for the duration of the flight. So, make sure you’re wearing a comfortable mask!
To learn more about flying safely during COVID, check out this video by Dr. Mike Hansen:
Step Two: Packing Your Essentials
Next, you’ll need to pack your essentials and your clothing. It can often be hard to find vegan-friendly cosmetics or clothing if you’re traveling internationally, so it’s a good idea to prepare and plan ahead by bring the right gear with you.
Purchase TSA-Approved Containers For Your Vegan Cosmetics
Unfortunately, many travel-size shampoos, conditioners, and other essentials aren’t vegan. So, you’ll need to pack your own. The TSA only allows liquid containers that are 3.4 ounces or less in your carry-on bag, which should be fine for a brief trip. Just purchase a small kit of refillable travel containers and fill them with your own vegan shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc.
If you’re going to be taking a longer trip, then you should use your checked luggage bag. TSA rules are a lot more lax when it comes to your checked luggage, so you can bring large containers of vegan face wash, shampoo, lotion, or conditioner without an issue.
Make Sure You Pack The Right Clothes & Gear
Make sure you research where you’ll be flying and what the climate and weather are looking like. It may be difficult to find vegan-friendly items like vegan winter boots or other extreme-temperature gear while you’re traveling internationally. So, do your research and pack ahead of time!
Step Three: Eating During Your Flight
Most international flights include one or two in-flight meals. If you’re given the option, make sure to choose a vegan-friendly meal. Another good tip is to buy some vegan-friendly snacks at the airport. Just keep in mind that you can’t bring any snacks through security, so you’ll need to purchase them after TSA screening from one of the airport shops.
My favorite easy-to-find vegan snacks are:
- Nuts
- Trail mix
- Vegan-friendly protein bars
- Popcorn (cheese/dairy-free)
Step Four: Research Local Cuisine & Customs
Lastly, you’ll want to research the local cuisine! Find out if there are any popular vegan foods where you’ll be going, as they’ll be easier to find and allow you to taste some of the area’s unique cultural cuisine. It’s also a good idea to do a bit of research and make a list of some good vegan-friendly restaurants to check out.
If the location you’re staying at provides a kitchen space, then buying groceries and cooking your own vegan meals at home is a great way to save money as well!
In Conclusion – Preparation Is The Key To Traveling As A Vegan
Traveling the world as a vegan is a lot simpler than it may seem. You just have to make sure that you prepare accordingly. The first step is to get your passport and vaccination records together. Then, pack enough essentials and gear to last for the duration of your trip. Lastly do a bit of research and find some local vegan eats.
With the proper planning, your trip around the globe will be one of the best experiences of your life!
