Traveling can be one of the biggest obstacles to cause your otherwise healthy food choices to run off the rails. So how can you stay on track even when you’re on the road?
Here are a few tips for eating healthy while traveling:
1. PLAN AHEAD
When we travel, it’s so easy to fall out of our consistent food habits. Especially if you happen to be on vacation. One way to keep things under control is by planning ahead. Before you leave, make a firm decision about the foods you’re going to keep on the table and the foods you’re choosing to avoid. Make a plan for how you’ll handle drinks, desserts, and snacks, as well.
2. DO SOME RESEARCH
Look into your accommodations to find out if there is a mini fridge or microwave available. If you are staying at a hotel, find out if they provide breakfast and what they typically serve. Again, stick to the food choices that you’ve planned on ahead of time, so you’re not tempted by the mini-cheese danishes. Also, map out the nearest grocery store options ahead of time and make a list of simple and healthy foods that you can pick up once you’ve arrived.
3. STASH NON-PERISHABLE SNACKS
What happens if you’re planning on grabbing some food when your plane lands in your destination, but your flight’s delayed? Or you get in much later than you anticipated and the grocery stores are closed? Rather than relying on fast food options or taking your chances at the gas station convenience store, pack healthy snacks before you leave. By stashing a few different non-perishable snacks in your carry-on bag or somewhere easily accessible, you’re more likely to keep your food choices on track until you’re able to get in a decent meal. Look for snacks with real-food ingredients like RX Bars, Larabars, Epic Bars, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, wild-caught fish packets, and nut butter packets. You can also stock up on fresh fruits like apples, bananas, avocados, and oranges.
OTHER TIPS
- Pack a reusable water bottle and keep it filled (after you get through airport security).
- Travel with foods in airtight containers and discard any extra packaging before your trip.
- Pack a few treats, like dark chocolate, so you’re less tempted by processed desserts.
- Try to work out while you’re on the road. You might need to get creative with what you can do, but sticking to a workout schedule can also motivate you to keep your eating habits on track, as well.
- If you do happen to make a poor choice (or a few of them), don’t wait until you’re back home to get back on track. Get back to good food choices as soon as you can.
