When you travel, it can be hard to maintain your regular eating and exercise routine. Traversing time zones and leaving your well-stocked kitchen behind can make it tempting to tuck into the mini bar and eat out all day, every day.
But it is possible to travel without unraveling all your hard work. Try these top tips for eating well on the road:
1. Plan ahead
Look at your travel itinerary and plan how you will source healthy food and squeeze daily movement into your schedule. You may need to research nearby walking and running tracks, parks, gyms, and yoga studios. Or you may need to bring some gear from home, such as a travel yoga mat or resistance bands which are light and easy to pack.
2. Prep for the plane
Airline food is generally uninspired and packed with preservatives, sugar and salt. One simple trick is to bring your own food on-board (just check airline and customs regulations as there may be prohibited items). Most solid foods should be fine to carry on with you; and if you forget, many airline shops now sell nut mixes and protein bars. It's also a good idea to buy a sandwich or salad to take on the plane.
Once on board, it can be tempting to tuck into every tray that lands in your lap. But airlines are notorious for feeding us too often (most likely to ward off boredom and bring on sleep!) so know that it's OK to decline a meal or two. You can also pre-book a healthy option, such as gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian.
3. Suss out the shops
When you arrive, hit the nearest supermarket or health food store and stock up on healthy snacks. Nuts and seeds (or a combined trail mix) will provide sustained energy, and you can easily carry them around in a zip-lock bag – perfect for when you arrive in a new destination and haven't the time or energy to find food.
4. On the road rules
Long car trips are synonymous with junk food pit-stops, which isn't ideal when you're sitting in a car and doing little movement! Try to avoid eating at takeaway joints and service stations. Instead, pack an esky with healthy meals and snacks – as well as loads of fresh water – and seek out local cafes and shops to restock.
5. Healthy hotel
When choosing hotels, opt for a room with a mini kitchen so you can cook your own meals. If that's not possible, ask for the mini bar to be cleared out and then re-stock it with healthy food from the streets.
Originally published on May 22, 2015
