With many people gearing up for spring break in April, I thought it would be helpful to share some ways I stay healthy on the road.
Tip # 1: Pack Travel Snacks (for both ways)
This might be the most important tip of all. It is easy to rush packing and just wing it when it comes to the food piece, but that means you’re at the mercy of overpriced and low quality airport food. I know all you mamas out there put a lot of time and energy into what your kiddos are going to eat at the airport and on the flight, so why not also put similar effort into your snacks? Don’t get me wrong… I will 100% buy that $10.00 Starbucks before boarding my 6:00 am flight, but I would prefer to eat my overnight oats with all the fixing than and a bagel and cream cheese that will leave me hangry before the plane has even taken off.
I always make a point to hit up the grocery store a few days before my trip to stock up on as many non-perishable goodies I can fit into my snacks travel bag. Not only am I packing snacks for the flight, but I am thinking of things I can have on hand in the hotel or keep in my purse to have throughout my trip. Also do not forget about the trip home. If there is not a grocery store for your to easily restock at before leaving, be sure to bring extra snacks for the flight back. Here is a list of some favorite high protein travel snacks and blood sugar stabilizing travel snack list.
Tip #2: Stay Active
Yes, vacation is a time for rest and relaxation, but if you’re like me I enjoy being physically active on vacations. I love a hotel gym situation, but if you don’t vacation is a great time to explore your new surroundings by foot. Going for a walk/run on the beach, going for a hike, or even finding a cute coffee shop to walk to. I love taking classes like pilates, yoga, or Barrys, so If I’m in a city that offers those types of classes I may do a drop in class. Make some room in your suitcase for your Nike’s, Lulus, and pilates socks.
Tip # 3: Hydrate + Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Travel (especially on airplanes) can be very dehydrating. I can’t stress how important it is to start hydrating before you leave for your trip. The airplane is not the best time to start pounding water. Starting being mindful about water intake a day or two before you’re leaving. Be mindful of excessive caffeine and alcohol while you’re in the the air which will both dehydrate you before you even reach your destination. I strongly encourage your to bring your own water bottle so you can fill it up when you get through TSA. I prefer my Owalla water bottle because it’s easy to refill without having to take the kid off.
Remember your brain has a hard time knowing the difference between thirst and hunger cues, so you may think you’re hungry but actually just thirsty. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking water…that means you’re already dehydrated.
Tip #4: Smart Sleep Habits
There are so many different factors that can make it difficult to get good sleep while traveling, but adequate sleep is essential for you to feel your best- duh! Try to stick to your normal bed time routine and bring along items that might help you sleep better (eye mask, blanket, pillow, essential oils, tea, or a book). Inadequate sleep can also effect hunger cue accuracy and you might notice craving all the donuts, pastries, bagels, cookies and coffee to keep energy levels up. Also walking around in a total daze while traveling is no fun.
Tip # 5: Indulge a Little
One of the best parts about traveling is exploring new foods! It is important to be open to trying new restaurants and local dishes. Having a balance between getting in the foods that you know make you feel good and also being open to new food experiences is key. Getting caught up in negative thoughts about the macronutrient content of the food (nice way of saying calorie counting) is going to make it very difficult to be present and enjoy the moment. If your vacation destination is known for having the best __________ , TRY IT!! Food is meant to be a pleasurable, social, and a fun experience. So let yourself fully enjoy the food, location, and who you’re with.
Here are some key items I travel with to help me achieve these goals and balance my intake (protein and fiber) if my travel diet is lacking.
xx, Alix
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