So, you’re finally taking your dream vacation. You’ve booked your flight, packed your bags, and you’re ready to hit the road. Before you go, there’s something you need to think about. No, it’s not which tourist attractions to visit or where to find the best beaches (hint: ask the locals, they know where the true gems are!). It’s about how to keep your food and fitness game strong while you’re away from home.
Here are 7 travel tips for food and fitness that will help you stay on track and make the most of your vacation.
1. Be OK to fall off the wagon
This is probably not what you expected to read. Yet, if you’re on vacation you likely want to enjoy being on vacation without feeling food guilt. Eating healthy should be a lifestyle choice, which includes indulgences now and then if you want them. What’s more important is to make a conscious decision to return to your established nutrition routine after a certain amount of time.
2. Research Like a Pro
Before you set foot on the plane, do some research on the local food scene at your destination. Look for restaurants that offer healthy options or specialize in local cuisine that’s both delicious and nutritious. And don’t forget to check out any outdoor activities or fitness classes that you can participate in while you’re there. Trust me, a little bit of planning goes a long way when it comes to staying healthy on vacation.
3. BYOS (Bring Your Own Snacks)
One of the biggest pitfalls of traveling is succumbing to unhealthy airport snacks or indulging in calorie-laden, expensive hotel minibar treats – $6 for a Snickers bar, are you kidding me? Pack some healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, fruit, or protein bars in your carry-on luggage to keep hunger at bay and avoid making impulsive snack choices.
4. Remember the H2O
It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re busy sightseeing, but staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining your energy levels and keeping your cravings in check. Take a reusable water bottle with you. If you’re a frequent traveler or going on a longer trip, consider investing in a travel water bottle with a built-in filter so you can have purified water when you need it.
5. Don’t Stop, Can’t Stop Moving
Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you have to throw your fitness routine out the window. Take advantage of not having your car by exploring on foot or renting a bike to see the sights. You can also squeeze in a quick workout in your hotel room using bodyweight exercises or by following along with a workout video on YouTube. Remember, every little bit counts!
6. Take a Food Tour
If you’re a travel foodie with FOMO (fear of missing out), consider a food tour. Look for a tour with great reviews and, if possible, check out the reviews for the restaurants where you’ll be stopping. Food tours can be a great way to try small bites of a variety of interesting things. Plus, since food tours are done in a few hours, you can set one day aside as your splurge day, instead of going off-track each day. Many walking and biking food tours are available so that’s another great way to keep moving.
7. Practice Portion Control & Mindful Eating
Another key to staying on track while traveling is practicing portion control. Many restaurants serve oversized portions, so consider splitting a dish with your travel companion or asking for a half portion if possible. Eating mindfully goes great with portion control. Savor each bite slowly and immerse yourself in the experience of eating something new and delicious. Also, by eating slowly and listening to your body’s hunger and satiety cues, you tend to avoid overeating.
