With summer upon us, it seems that everyone is planning a vacation with family or friends. And there’s no doubt that the best thing about being on vacation is the opportunity to relax, indulge in great food, and enjoy tropical cocktails (or mocktails) under the stars. But how can you manage to have a blast without completely derailing your healthy lifestyle?
Healthy Travel Tips
Follow these seven tips to help you stay on track while you're on the road.
1. Be prepared to get moving.
When packing, be sure to include workout clothes and tennis shoes. Having your gear with you will encourage you to stay active. Toss in lightweight resistance bands or a jump rope to help you stick to your routine without taking up precious suitcase space. If you’re headed to a tropical locale, move your workout outdoors and enjoy the scenery, but don’t forget the sunscreen!
Pro Tip: Scope out hotel gyms, nearby parks, or fitness classes before your trip so you’ll have options ready to choose from.
2. Follow your doctor’s orders.
Since you can’t always depend on your travel destination to provide access to well-stocked drugstores or pharmacies, being prepared with medications and supplements will ensure that you won’t have to go a day without.
Pro Tip: Don't lose your momentum! Stay consistent with your routine by packing your favorite travel-ready essentials to keep you feeling and looking great:
3. Snack smart for an energy boost.
It’s no secret that the junk food displays in gas stations and airports are tempting. But having a piece of fruit or handful of raw nuts in your car or carry-on can help boost energy levels as well as curb your appetite until mealtime.
And, be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and prevent feeling bloated.
Pro Tip: Nearly half of travelers experience some form of digestive upset or irregularity. If you tend to need a little extra digestive support when you travel, a daily probiotic can help promote balanced digestion (as well as healthy skin and immunity, win-win). If you're prone to traveler's constipation, consider stashing a gentle natural laxative like SurgiLax® in your carry-on.
4. Immerse yourself in the food culture.
Whether you’re crossing state lines or traveling internationally, eating healthful foods during your trip can be challenging. Do some research to find out which fruits and vegetables are native to the region you will be visiting and what produce is in season. Save money and calories by visiting local farmers markets and picking out fresh fare for breakfast and lunch. Just like the locals!
Pro Tip: Ask locals or market vendors for their favorite ways to prepare regional fruits and veggies—you might discover a new recipe to bring home!
5. Have fun burning calories.
Do your homework to find hiking trails, parks, or historical sites in your destination area that may be of interest to you. Know where you’re going ahead of time and set out to see everything on bike or foot. If you’re staying at a resort or taking a cruise, get a guide or take a lesson doing something you’ve never done before. You can burn between 200 and 400 calories per hour learning to surf or kayak. If you’re planning on visiting a national park this summer, check out the National Park Service’s website for maps, passes, permits, programs, and park-specific updates.
Pro Tip: Cell service can be spotty in parks and remote areas. Download offline maps or trail apps before you go to help you stay on course and explore with confidence.
6. Stay stress free.
Keeping stress at bay during your vacation will ensure that you come back completely refreshed and rejuvenated. If you leave early and allow plenty of time for travel, you won’t be stressed standing in the endless airport security lines or stopping at that quirky roadside market. Also, remember not to over-plan and keep obligations to a minimum. Trying to keep a schedule and running from one location to the next is likely to add unnecessary stress to your day. In other words, know what fun-filled options you have and go with the flow.
Pro Tip: The quality of your sleep can have a great impact on your stress levels. Pack this conveniently pre-packaged AM to PM multi formula and these natural sleep support gummies to help you skip the jet lag, enjoy relaxing evenings, and get plenty of restful shut-eye on your travels.
7. No work allowed.
It’s important to leave your work at work. This is your vacation and you earned it! Don’t ruin it by spending your time glued to your phone or laptop. Tie up loose ends at work before you leave, don’t pack your laptop and lock your iPhone in the hotel safe if necessary. If you absolutely have to check in with the office, do it on your terms. Set aside one hour of the day for work-related tasks and limit yourself to that time only.
Pro Tip: Turn off email and work notifications on your devices to minimize distractions, and consider a digital detox to help you fully recharge and enjoy your time off.
Here's to happy, healthy travel this summer and beyond!