Whenever I discover new travel accessories, a rush of excitement takes over me! And it is even better when those travel items are specifically created with vegans in mind! My recent purchases are indeed proof of the growing number of products designed to provide ethical travel for vegans.
Anyone who has traveled to a Central American rainforest, Southeast Asia, or the African continent realizes just how crucial it is to take precaution against mosquito bites. Until fairly recently, DEET was the only insect repellent that most travelers purchased. In fact, it was up until recently, the only insect repellent approved by the USA’s CDC (Center For Disease Control). However, it is toxic and can cause physical damage to skin. As of now, the CDC also approves vegan-friendly and non-toxic lemon eucalyptus oil. They note that it must be a special formulation of this oil: one that is found in store brand spray bottles. A homemade concoction of lemon eucalyptus oil is not recommended, as it has not been tested for its concentration or for the inclusion of a few other choice ingredients. I was thrilled to hear that a non-toxic, vegan repellent has been approved! This is definitely my choice for my travels! “Repel” (Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent) is a brand that offers this insect repellent. It is thought to work best when it is re-applied every hour or so.
I was thrilled to find a company that designs vegan travel accessories! Lavishy (Lavishy) based in Canada, offers vegan “faux leather” luggage tags(as well as passport covers and travel wallets). The tags display colorful animal outlines in whimsical patterns. I purchased a luggage tag with two adorable owls on the front cover!
Quite often our travels include a “night out on the town” to explore the local music, dance, or theater. Many organized tour groups offer a dinner theater and music option on their tours. For this reason alone, us ladies should pack some vegan cosmetic items. I recently purchased an eco-friendly, vegan cosmetic pouch made of cork. It is lightweight and compact which makes it convenient for carry on bags or totes. For that special evening at the dinner theater, it fits nicely into a small handbag. It even includes an attached mirror to apply those last minute makeup touches. The Portugal-based company “Corkor” (Corkor cosmetics pouch) designs vegan-friendly makeup pouches, backpacks, and handbags. A thin lipstick, small liquid makeup bottle, travel-size perfume, and eyeshadow fit compactly into this pouch.
I have been searching high and low for a vegan, travelsize skincare product line that includes all the basics needed for our travels. I was delighted to have found “Pure Natural Diva Botanicals”(Pure Natural Diva Botanicals Skincare) products! Their Deluxe Travel Organic Skincare arrived in a linen drawstring travel pouch, containing travel-size peppermint toner, facial cleanser, moisturizer, day lotion, facial exfoliant, eye serum, decollete mask, and argan oil. Your face now has all it needs for its care during your travels!
Fanny packs were “all the rage” a few years back. The hidden waist pouch would hide your valuables from wanna-be thieves. Today’s traveler has other options to protect their belongings from theft. The Clever Travel Companion company(Clever Travel Companion) manufactures undergarments, t-shirts, and tank tops that contain a ‘secret pocket”. Would-be robbers will not realize that your valuables are hidden and safely tucked away within this pocket. Its dimensions provide room for a passport, credit cards, and cash. The rayon/spandex fabric is obviously vegan. You can wear the garments under your main clothing or as is. For example, I plan on wearing the sleek tank top under a long sleeve shirt during my overnight trip on a train in India. Potential thieves won’t have a clue where my valuables are hidden!
After my shopping extravaganza was complete, what better way to immerse myself in the culture of my next travel destination (India) than by experiencing its cuisine! That said, I developed an instant craving for Indian food! Onward I marched, to the Indian restaurant “Udupi”(Udupi Restaurant) located in Nashua, New Hampshire.
The appetizer I selected was the samosa. This flaky crust pastry was filled with potatoes and peas. The mint dipping sauce complemented it nicely.
My main entree was the Bindi Masala. The Okra slices were stuffed with dry roasted spices, peanuts, chana dal and red chillies and sauteed. The order was accompanied by a side of basmati rice. The meal was 100% vegan, as are many of the dishes at this vegetarian restaurant. I enjoyed my flavorful dinner immensely!
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a novice backpacker setting out to explore the world for the first time, these vegan travel accessories are sure to make your journeys more satisfying! You will definitely want to experience the joy that comes when traveling safely and comfortably as a vegan!