Whether you’re going to the beach, sightseeing in Europe, traveling through exotic markets, or escaping on a quick weekend getaway - staying healthy on vacation can be tough. And while vacations are meant to be relaxing and indulgent, you don’t want to come home feeling less than your best. So on your next trip, fend off the post-vacation blues, by following these easy tips and tricks.
Getting There
Whether you’re traveling by plane, train or automobile, here are a few tips to keep you feeling good on those long and stressful travel days.
- Bring Snacks: Instead of loading up on greasy (and expensive!) food at an airport food court, bring healthy snacks from home to eat before and during your flight. Airplane food is usually loaded with sodium and definitely less than appetizing (or exciting). This also goes for road trips. Instead of snacking on candy and carbs, which can make you feel gross after a long drive, bring healthy snacks and treat yourself when you arrive at your destination.
- Always Use Hand Sanitizer: Traveling is the perfect time to release your inner germaphobe. Bring a sanitizing gel with at least 60% alcohol and use it before you eat or drink. On a plane, use sanitizing wipes to clean your armrests and tray table - you have no idea where in the world they’ve been!
- Stay Hydrated: Sitting in a stuffy plane can be really dehydrating and harsh on your skin. To prevent dehydration bring a reusable water bottle with you and fill it up before you get on the plane. Also, as much as you might want to, try and avoid drinking coffee or alcohol on those long flights to paradise.
In The Hotel
Be smart about your stay and take advantage of the healthy opportunities your hotel has to offer.
- Take The Stairs: Don’t feel like hitting the hotel gym? Opt out of the elevator and take the stairs instead. It may not seem like much, but after a long day of lounging, a few flights of stairs will get your heart pumping.
- Avoid the Buffet: With endless amounts of high calorie food, hotel buffets can be dangerous places. If possible, avoid eating at the hotel buffet entirely. If you do eat there, always choose a smaller plate and do your best to load up on the fresh fruit and veggies.
- Utilize That Mini-Fridge: Take advantage of your hotel’s mini-fridge. Hard boiled eggs or yogurt are great snacks or breakfast options. Bonus: it’ll help you save some money so you can splurge on that lavish meal later.
Exploring
Whether you prefer to lounge in the sun, tour the city, or let your adventurous spirit run wild, you deserve to feel your best.
- Walking Tours: Avoid bus tours and cabs - the best way to explore any city is by walking! Go on a walking tour, or choose local sites, like hiking trails, that keep you on your feet and reward you with the best city views.
- Eat Local: Check out local farmer’s markets to pick up healthy snacks for the day. This is a great way to not only eat healthy, but get an authentic taste of the local culture.
- Commit To One Healthy Meal A Day: If there was ever a time to indulge in rich foods and big meals, it’s when you’re on vacation. But if you commit to eating just one healthy meal everyday day, you’ll have more energy for your adventures and feel less guilty about indulging later.
