Without a doubt, when the average person visualizes camping, they see burgers and steaks on a grill, hot dogs over a campfire, and other meat-centered meals. However, as a vegetarian, there’s an entirely different approach to meal planning for RV life.
Consequently, while doing my own studying, I have found very few sites committed to vegetarian camping.
Before we get any further, let’s get this out of the way.
Defining “Vaguely Vegetarian”
First, I am not a vegan. Vegans don’t want any animal-based products in their lives. They don’t eat seafood, consume dairy, or use eggs. But it’s not just about their diets, they don’t even wear leather. Typically, these are folks who choose this lifestyle as a statement against animal cruelty. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but they are much more strict about their regimens.
I am also not what anyone could consider a “strict” vegetarian. I’ll cave for a bite of bacon or a slice of pepperoni pizza on occasion. I also don’t have a problem using eggs and dairy. I don’t even care if you sautéed my mushrooms and onions next to the beef for a Philly cheesesteak.
As a former co-worker once said, I don’t mind the “essence of meat,” I just don’t want to eat a big ol’ slab of animal flesh. It requires too much chewing, and after the initial flavor burst, my brain remembers what I’m gnawing on.
Here’s another thing: Every time I eat a piece of meat, I get gristle anxiety. Each time I chew, I wonder if this is the moment when I bite into that little spongy, rubbery piece of cartilage that will ruin my entire meal.
Newsflash: Veggies don’t have gristle.
Veggies-First Approach
I have started to view meat and meat-based products like fast food; okay, when consumed sparingly, but not something you want each meal based on. So we try to think veggies first, with any meat being a garnish, a flavor enhancer, and used minimally.
For example, I have no problem using chicken stock to make a chicken noodle soup – but I’m not using the chunks of chicken. Likewise, I’m sorry, but if you’re not adding bacon crumble to your egg and potato breakfast burritos, you’re missing out. Speaking of bacon, I just think green beans cooked without bacon are missing a key flavor.
On the other hand, I think grilled portobellos are better than any steak I’ve ever had. I can also make a mushroom burger or a southwest black-bean Smashburger… (recipes coming soon!) and as you’ll learn from our upcoming trip, depending on how you slice and dice them, mushrooms are a great substitute for meat in many recipes.
Have you ever tried Jackfruit? Such a delicious alternative to pulled pork – all organic and absolutely delicious. Jackfruit street tacos and BBQ sandwiches are just mouthwatering.
It’s Really About Our Health
While my decision to go “vaguely vegetarian” wasn’t born from moral outrage or an allegiance to PETA, it has become increasingly influenced by one thing: how good I feel when I eat this way. We’re not just talking about less bloating and more regular digestion (though yes, thank you, veggies).
A plant-forward diet has been linked to reduced risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers. Not to mention, veggies are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients that help your body actually thrive rather than just survive between meat-laden meals.
When we started prioritizing whole plant-based foods, I noticed a huge difference in our energy levels. There was no post-meal slump or sluggish afternoons. We felt lighter, clearer, and more energized. It’s like our bodies knew they were being nourished properly.
The “veggies first” approach isn’t about deprivation—it’s about biohacking a healthier approach to dining. It’s about feeding our bodies foods they can easily process and actually use. In the RV lifestyle, where space is limited and every choice matters, we plan to stock up on colorful, versatile, locally sourced fruits and vegetables to keep things simple, fresh, and seriously satisfying.
Follow Along!
If you’re curious about what this veggie-forward RV lifestyle actually looks like on the plate, stick around—we’re just getting started. We’ll be sharing the real-life recipes we’re cooking up on the road, from smoky campfire meals to quick, healthy grab-n-go options like overnight oats and protein-packed wraps.
Whether you’re a fellow vegetarian, a flexitarian dabbling in meatless Mondays, or just someone looking for flavorful meals that don’t weigh you down, there’s something delicious coming your way. Hit that subscribe button to follow our journey—you’ll get our latest recipes, travel tips, and camp kitchen hacks delivered straight to your inbox.
Let’s make this one tasty adventure.
