The holiday season means spending time with friends and family. Sometimes, that means traveling to where they are! Traveling can be so much fun, but can be a little stressful, too, if you’re not well prepared.
You might notice that this echoes a lot that was in our previous post about healthy holiday tips (sometimes things get forgotten when you’re traveling). Even if it’s just a little day trip, there are some things to always keep in mind.
- Keep it Regular
Just because you are traveling doesn’t mean your basic concepts of healthy eating should go out the window. People with dietary restrictions are always careful to pay close attention to what they are eating, but the truth is that we all should be just as mindful. You want to aim for regular, balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This variety ensures you get essential nutrients to keep your body healthy and happy. Plus keeping it regular will help your metabolism and internal clock stay regulated while you are somewhere new.
- Snacks on the Go
When traveling, it is always smart to pack your own snacks. For one, it will likely help you save a little money compared to buying at rest stops or in airports (hello, inflation). Maybe you have a long travel day and won’t have time to sit down for a full meal. Or maybe you have special dietary restrictions that are tricky to accommodate. Be sure to pack nutritious snacks like nuts and whole grains to help maintain energy levels and counteract jet lag.
- Road Tripping
Going on a road trip is probably one of the most fun experiences! That quick stop to fuel up is practically begging you to grab some gas station grub. But there is very little there that will truly fuel your body and will likely have you feeling pretty crappy once that initial jolt of goodness wears off. Pack yourself some healthy snacks, and be sure to have a filling meal ahead of your drive to keep you alert and energized. If it is a longer drive and you do need to stop for food, be smart about your choices (see tip 5).
- Airport Energized
If you are hopping on a plane for some long-distance travel over the holidays, then pay close attention! Did you know that planes actually dehydrate you? The altitude. The closed up, pressurized box. That’s why you often arrive puffy and tired. Staying hydrated is extra important! Lack of water is the #1 cause of daytime fatigue, which isn’t great if you have another flight to catch or activities as soon as you land. Also, make sure you’ve got some of those healthy snacks we talked about. Your taste buds are affected by high altitude, too, so better to have something you know your body will enjoy.
- Eating Out
In most cases, traveling means a lot of eating out. These meals might be loaded with more calories than what you might make yourself at home. Keeping that in mind, try to pick the healthier options when eating out. Get the grilled chicken instead of fried. Opt for mixed greens instead of iceberg lettuce. Ask for your burger without a bun. Whether you are dining at a sit-down establishment or grabbing something from a fast food chain, it is possible to make sure your eating stays in check.
- Splurge
All of the previous tips do not mean you can’t splurge a little here and there. I mean, really, what would the holidays be without a slice of pumpkin pie or a hot peppermint mocha? Those foods certainly play a part in making the holiday season special, so of course you should enjoy them! That being said, you shouldn’t load up your daily menu with sugary, calorie-laden, but treating yourself every now and then isn’t just worth it, but necessary.
- Relax and Enjoy
Above everything else, traveling during the holiday season should be enjoyable. Don’t spend every moment analyzing what you are eating. Just try to make mindful, healthy choices along the way. If that means a late night hot chocolate and cookies by the fireplace while you catch up with old friends, then so be it! Take time to relax and truly enjoy each moment!
Where are you traveling during the holiday season? And how will you make sure you are staying healthy?
