Exploring new cities and cuisines is one of the joys of travel—but it can also present challenges for those committed to sustainability. Fast food, single-use plastics, and unfamiliar sourcing standards can derail your eco-conscious habits. The good news? With a little planning and intention, it’s entirely possible to stay true to your values while enjoying incredible meals on the road.

1. Research Restaurants Ahead of Time
   Use platforms like Eat Well Guide or HappyCow to locate restaurants that focus on local, organic, plant-based, or zero-waste dining. These directories allow you to search by city and dietary preference, making it easier to support mission-driven eateries wherever you go.
2. Choose Plant-Forward Options
   One of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact while traveling is to opt for plant-based meals. Even choosing vegetarian dishes a few times a week can significantly lower your carbon footprint. Many airport restaurants and hotel eateries now offer plant-forward menu items, especially in progressive cities.
3. Bring Reusables
   Packing a few key items—like a reusable water bottle, bamboo utensils, and a cloth napkin—can help you avoid waste from disposable food packaging. These small tools are lightweight and easy to carry, and many sustainable restaurants welcome their use.
4. Support Local and Seasonal
   Look for restaurants that serve food grown in the region you’re visiting. Not only will it taste fresher, but it will also reduce emissions from long-distance transportation. Tools like the Seasonal Food Guide can help you identify what’s in season wherever you are.
5. Use Cashback Apps to Offset Travel Dining Costs
   If you’re eating out often while traveling, consider using cashback platforms like Rakuten, Ibotta, or Fluz to save money on meals without compromising on sustainability. For example, with Fluz, you can get cashback at Panera Bread or earn cashback with an Uber Eats gift card—perfect for quick meals or delivery at your hotel.
6. Ask Questions About Sourcing
   Even if you’re in a new place, it’s okay to ask servers where ingredients are from or if the seafood is certified by Seafood Watch. Restaurants that take sustainability seriously are usually happy to share.
7. Avoid Over-Ordering
   Portion sizes vary widely when traveling. If you’re unsure how much to order, ask for recommendations or split entrees. Avoiding food waste is a central part of sustainable dining, especially when refrigeration or leftovers aren’t an option.
8. Stay at Hotels with On-Site Ethical Dining
   Many boutique and eco-friendly hotels feature farm-to-table restaurants or offer partnerships with local producers. Check if the hotel you’re booking lists sourcing policies or culinary sustainability programs on its site.

Eat Well, Travel Lightly
Dining sustainably while on the go is all about making thoughtful choices. Whether it’s selecting a local dish, using a gift card to support an ethical chain, or carrying a reusable fork in your bag, every small decision adds up. With the right tools and mindset, your next meal can be as kind to the planet as it is delicious.