Why Planning Ahead is the Key to a Healthy Vacation

by | May 8, 2020

The Fully Mediterranean Guide to Planning Ahead for Healthy Travel

Whether you are traveling for work or pleasure, taking a trip does not have to sabotage your health and wellness goals! It is possible for you to taste local cuisine, get in some movement, and enjoy your trip to the fullest by following Fully Mediterranean’s Top 5 Tips!

1. Plan Ahead
Before you go, check out what resources are available to you where you are staying, and begin planning out what you will do to stay active and what you will eat to stay on track with your health goals. Research restaurants, walking and running trails, spin classes, and grocery store locations where you are traveling. Taking a run through a new city or checking out a farmer’s market is a great way to see the sights while also supporting your health goals.

2. Focus on Whole Foods
Processed foods are everywhere when you travel! Make an effort to seek out real, whole foods whenever possible. In the airport, look for easy-to-grab fruits like bananas and apples to pair with a single-serve packet of nut butter or a cheese stick for lasting energy. At restaurants, fill half of your plate veggies by adding a side salad or choosing plant-based meal options. For more on healthy eating while dining out check out this post on clever tips for dining out.

3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Between the low humidity on planes, possibly acclimating to a new climate or just being busy when hitting the road, you can forget to drink. Remember, water is your best defense for fatigue, headaches, and hunger! It is necessary for all of our energy functions and it allows our immune system to do its thing. It is also so important for digestion and elimination. Pack a reusable water bottle and aim for two liters per day.

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4. Pack a Healthy Travel Bag
Create a healthy travel bag with a Ziploc bag or a small pouch to go in your carry-on. Stock up on single serving snacks that can tide you over and prevent you from making unhealthy food choices. Some of our favorite travel snacks include dried nuts, turkey jerky, trail mix, whole grain crackers and string cheese, hard boiled eggs, hummus and carrots and single-serving tea bags.

5. Eat Before You Hit the Road
Never skip meals before a trip or you’ll be more inclined to give into processed snacks and unhealthy meals. Instead, check out our Breakfast Basics post to see how you can start your travel day with a satiating breakfast containing protein, fat, and fiber.

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to healthy travel. Once you’ve done some planning, you can sit back and enjoy the trip!