Summer is the perfect time to embark on exciting travel adventures and explore new destinations.
Traveling can throw off your real food plans and healthy lifestyle choices. It’s a delicate balance between wanting to indulge a little bit (after all, you’re on vacation!) and wanting to maintain a routine and good habits. Making sure you stick to a few strategies while on the go is crucial to ensure you keep feeling your best and can make the most of your trip. We’ve put together some of our best ideas on what to do to enjoy your vacation to the fullest without compromising your well-being.
Maintaining Healthy Eating While Traveling
When you're on the road, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement and indulge in some of the many food options. However, with a little planning and mindful choices, you can maintain a healthy eating routine while traveling.
Plan Ahead
Before your trip, research and identify restaurants or eateries that offer healthy options at your destination. Look for places that serve fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and have a variety of nutritious choices on their menu. If possible, make reservations in advance to ensure availability.
Pack Snacks
Pack a selection of healthy snacks to curb your hunger and prevent you from reaching for unhealthy alternatives. Some portable options include fresh fruits, pre-cut vegetables, nuts and home-made trail mix, granola bars or jerky. These snacks will keep you energized and satisfied between meals or on longer trips where you may be unsure of what’s available.
Dine Out Smartly
When dining out, make wise choices by opting for dishes that are grilled, steamed, or baked instead of fried. Choose proteins such as grilled chicken or fish, and ask for salad or vegetable sides (bring your own dressing or ask for lemon/vinegar and olive oil on the side). Load up on vegetables as they are packed with essential nutrients.
Find our Restaurant Survival Guide here
Pro Tip: Self-Catering Vacation – why not have us do the cooking for you and have gourmet meals delivered to your destination? Order some Pete’s Read Food meals and have it delivered right to you – ready to heat and serve when you are. Order before you go here >>>>>>>
Avoid Overeating
Pay attention to portion sizes, as it's easy to overeat while traveling. In many restaurants, portion sizes tend to be larger than what you may normally consume. Consider sharing a meal with a travel companion or ask for a to-go box and save the leftovers for another meal. Listen to your body's signals of fullness and avoid the temptation to finish everything on your plate.
Stay Hydrated with Water
Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining overall health, especially while traveling. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it regularly. Avoid sugary drinks and sodas as they can contribute to dehydration and provide empty calories. If you find it challenging to drink plain water, infuse it with slices of fruits like lemon, lime, or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
More tips to stay hydrated are in this post
Explore Local Markets and Grocery Stores
One of the best ways to experience the local culture while maintaining healthy eating habits is by exploring local markets and grocery stores. Visit farmers' markets or local vendors to find fresh produce, nuts, and other healthy snacks. You can even stock up on nutritious items for quick and easy meals in your accommodation.
Bonus Tip: If you’re choosing a self-catering option, consider bringing your air-fryer (if you have one), so that making delicious meals from local produce is easy and effortless.
Limit Alcohol Intake
While it's tempting to indulge in cocktails or alcoholic beverages while on vacation, excessive alcohol consumption can have adverse effects on your health and disrupt your healthy eating habits. Limit your alcohol intake and opt for healthier alternatives like mocktails, fresh fruit juices, or infused water.
Read on here for more on choosing your alcoholic beverage
Enjoy Your Treats, Mindfully
Traveling often means indulging in treats and trying new cuisines. While it's important to enjoy yourself, be mindful of your choices and make a point of enjoying what you are indulging in. Allow yourself to savor local specialties or unique desserts, but be mindful of portion sizes and balance it with healthier choices throughout the day.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices Whilst Travelling
Focusing a few of your healthy lifestyle choices while traveling can significantly enhance your overall well-being and ensure you have an enjoyable and rejuvenating experience
Move Your Body
Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you should neglect your exercise routine. Staying active during your summer travels will not only keep you fit but also boost your energy levels and enhance your mood. Explore your destination on foot or rent a bicycle to discover hidden gems while getting some exercise. Additionally, consider incorporating stretching exercises or yoga into your daily routine to keep your body limber and prevent muscle soreness.
For more ideas on how to incorporate movement into your day, read this blog
Prioritize Sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for your body's overall functioning, especially when you're on the go. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing environment in your accommodations. Use earplugs or an eye mask if needed to ensure a good night's rest. Prioritizing sleep will help you stay energized and maintain a strong immune system during your summer travels.
Learn some tips to improve your sleep here
Enjoy The Sun, Safely
The sun's rays can be intense during the summer, so it's crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. Apply mineral sunscreen with a high SPF before heading out, and reapply it every few hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating. Read on here for more about choosing safe sunscreens. Wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to shield your skin from excessive sun exposure. Seek shade during peak sun hours, usually between 10 am and 4 pm. Sunburns can not only ruin your trip but also pose long-term health risks.
Manage Your Stress & Take Breaks
Traveling can sometimes be stressful, so incorporate stress-reducing activities into your itinerary. Practice deep breathing, mindfulness, or meditation to help calm your mind. While it's exciting to explore new destinations, don't overextend yourself. Allow time for rest and relaxation to avoid burnout. Take breaks during your sightseeing, and don't feel obligated to pack your itinerary with activities from dawn to dusk.
Maintaining healthy habits while traveling is about making conscious choices and finding a balance. Traveling is an opportunity to enrich your life, experience new cultures, and recharge your mind and body. By making conscious and healthy lifestyle choices, you can create wonderful memories and ensure a fulfilling travel experience.