It can be hard to keep up your health and fitness goals while traveling, but it’s not impossible! As a Registered Dietitian and frequent traveler, I’ve laid out my top ten tips for how to stay fit and healthy on the go. Check them out below!
1. Drink lots of water
Staying on top of your water intake will actually help decrease bloat and inflammation, especially when you get back home. You’ll thank me later!
2. Research restaurants near your destination
Before you reach your destination, start browsing menus in the area for healthier options. This makes it easier to decide where you want to go so you’re not stressing about it at the last minute.
3. Do a mini grocery run when you reach your destination
I always do a mini grocery run when I get to my destination! Even if you’re staying in a hotel, pick up some healthy snacks to keep in your mini fridge or in your bag for emergencies. Yogurt, pretzels, fruit, protein bars, cheese sticks, etc are all great options!
4. Intermittent fasting
This doesn’t mean starving yourself all day and then binging at dinner. When I’m traveling, sometimes I’ll wait longer to eat (think – pushing back breakfast longer), especially if we have tours/activities scheduled for the morning time.
5. Do more fitness-related activities
Book a walking tour or rent bikes to browse around town vs taking a car or bus! This is a great way to get extra movement in while also making the most of your time. In addition, opt for walking to local spots vs taking public transportation (when safe/able to do so).
6. Get in a workout
Get in a workout at the hotel gym is a great way to stay fit while traveling. No gym? Look up a bodyweight workout on YouTube to do in your hotel room/Airbnb or use platforms like ClassPass to try out a local workout class. You could also go for a walk or run – and it’s free!
7. Practice mindful eating
It can be easy to overindulge when you’re traveling. I try to practice more mindful eating and listening to my hunger and fullness cues to help control portion sizes. In addition, slow down your eating and chewing speed 🙂
8. Protein and veggies with every meal
A great way to control hunger and cravings is by aiming to get protein and veggies with every meal. Protein is a very satiating macronutrient and will keep you feeling full for hours!
9. Take leftovers
If you get a large portion for your meal, take some of it to go. This helps control portions AND you get two meals out of one.
10. Cook when you can
Just because you’re traveling, doesn’t mean you have to eat out for every meal. If you’re in an Airbnb, pick up some food at a local grocery store and aim to cook a few meals there. If you’re in a hotel, pick up snacks you can keep in your mini fridge or bag when hunger strikes.
If you’re like me, you love food and want to experience different cultures and cuisines when you travel. But, you also have health and fitness goals and want to make sure you feel your best during your travels and when you get back. These strategies help me maintain my goals, while still partaking in the amazing food that life has to offer!
If you’re looking for more tips for healthy travel, check out my favorite fast-food places for healthier options.
Fast Food Faves: Healthier Options on the Go!
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