The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes plenty of travel. But just because you're on the go doesn't mean you have to give up on your weight loss goals. In this article, I'll share 7 tips to help you stay on track with your healthy eating and fitness routine while you travel. From booking accommodations with a kitchen to packing healthy snacks and workout gear, there are plenty of ways to make sure you stay committed even when you're away from home. So let's dive in and discover how to maintain your healthy habits while on the move!
Book Accommodations with a Kitchen
Having a kitchen in your accommodations can be extremely beneficial when it comes to staying on track with your healthy living goals while traveling. Eating out for every meal can quickly pack on the calories, especially when restaurant portion sizes are often much larger than recommended. By booking a room or rental that includes a kitchen or kitchenette, you can take control of your meals and cook your own healthy options. This not only helps you cut back on the calories, but also allows you to avoid oversized portions. Being able to prepare your own meals gives you the freedom to choose nutritious ingredients and control the portion sizes, making it easier to stay on track with your healthy eating goals.
Pack for Success
When you're preparing for your trip, don't forget to pack all the gear you need to keep up with your fitness routine. Make sure to bring fitness gear such as travel-size yoga mats, gym leggings and shirts, sports bras, and sneakers. Having these items readily available in your suitcase will make it easier to stay motivated and continue with your regular workouts while away from home.
In addition to fitness gear, it's also important to pack healthy snacks and an empty water bottle in your carry-on bag. This way, you'll have nutritious options available when hunger strikes, and you won't be tempted by the unhealthy snacks typically found in airport convenience stores. Having an empty water bottle allows you to stay hydrated throughout your trip without having to constantly buy bottled water.
Use that Hotel Pool or Gym
Most hotels offer a range of amenities, including a pool and fitness center. Take advantage of these facilities to stay active during your trip. Starting your day with a 45-minute workout or winding down with a few laps in the pool in the evening will help you stay on track with your fitness goals while still enjoying your vacation. By incorporating exercise into your daily routine while traveling, you can maintain your fitness levels and keep your energy levels up.
Attend Active Outings
Traveling for fun doesn't have to mean lounging around all day. There are plenty of activities that allow you to have fun and stay active at the same time. Consider exploring your destination through walking tours, engaging in destination sports, or participating in sightseeing activities. Not only will these activities keep you moving, but they also give you the opportunity to experience new things and create memorable experiences during your trip.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial while traveling. Drinking plenty of water helps keep you energized and focused, especially when dealing with changing climates. If you're traveling to a place with a different climate than you're used to, such as heading up to the mountains for a ski trip, it's important to adapt and drink even more water than usual. Proper hydration will help you stay energized and avoid the negative effects of dehydration.
Dine Wisely
While it's important to have a kitchen in your accommodations, there's a good chance you'll still end up eating out at some point during your trip. To ensure you make healthy choices when dining out, it's a good idea to research menus in advance. Look for restaurants that offer healthy menu items and have a calming atmosphere. When ordering, opt for broth-based soups, salads, and menu items that don't include unhealthy keywords like “loaded” or “fried”. By being mindful of your choices and selecting nutritious options, you can still enjoy dining out without sacrificing your healthy eating goals.
Have Fun!
Remember, vacationing is meant to be enjoyable and relaxing. While it's important to stay on track with your healthy living goals, it's also crucial to have fun and celebrate the little wins along the way. Take a moment each evening to acknowledge and celebrate your continued success on your weight loss journey. By maintaining a flexible mindset and finding a balance between staying healthy and enjoying your trip, you can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
Additional Travel Hacks
It's always great to learn from others and discover new travel hacks that can help us stay committed to our healthy living goals while on the go. Feel free to share your own travel hacks, tips, and suggestions in the comments below. By exchanging ideas and experiences, we can all benefit and find new ways to stay on track with our health and wellness goals while traveling.
About the Author
Our author, Caitlin, is the Community Manager at Diet-to-Go. She is an avid runner and is passionate about maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. Caitlin believes in the importance of moderation and believes that the most successful weight loss journeys involve common-sense healthy eating and fitness. As the Community Manager, Caitlin engages with others online and shares her knowledge and experiences to inspire and motivate individuals on their own healthy living journeys.
