Vacation season is coming, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on healthy eating while traveling. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can stick to your nutrition plan and still have fun while staying healthy.
Traveling can be a blast for most people, but finding healthy food options on the road can be tough. Road trips, in particular, can be a challenge with fast food on every corner and the inevitable pile-up of paper bags and containers in your car.
On your next road trip, try some of these healthier alternatives and skip the fast food and junk that can clutter your vehicle. Packing a cooler can be a game-changer for healthy snacking. You can bring along cut-up veggies with some homemade dip or hummus, and pack fruits like apples, pears, oranges, or clementine slices. Keeping these foods in a cooler will ensure they stay fresh and are a much better choice than drive-thru fries.
Dried fruit is another great travel snack that doesn’t need refrigeration and makes an excellent substitute for candy. It’s naturally sweet and healthy—just be sure to check for added sugars when you read the ingredients.
Instead of making frequent stops at fast food joints, plan your route to include restaurants known for fresh meals and local ingredients. These places often offer well-rounded meals and support the local community by sourcing from local farmers. Opt for a side of veggies with your entrée instead of the typical fries or bread if you want to stick to a healthy diet.
When staying in a hotel, look for one with a mini-fridge to store your snacks, making them easy to grab when you’re on the move again. Ensure the snacks you choose will last a few days to avoid waste. Also, check out the breakfast options; sometimes, hotels offer a healthy and free breakfast.
Skip the disposable cups from fast-food places and bring a reusable water bottle on your trip. You can refill it at rest stops or restaurants, saving you money and reducing waste. Also, take along some basic eating utensils like knives, forks, and spoons. They’ll make it easier to enjoy the healthy food you’ve packed.
Airport food is usually pricey and unhealthy. Packing your own food can save you money and help you stick to healthy eating. While there are restrictions on what you can bring through security, many items like sandwiches, sliced fruits and veggies, and hard-boiled eggs are allowed. These options give you healthier choices for in-flight snacking.
Pre-measuring your snacks before a trip can help control portions and prevent mindless eating, especially on long journeys. Prepare single-serving bags of homemade trail mix, pretzels, crackers, nuts, or even chips. When you finish a bag, you’ll know it’s time to stop snacking.
Eating healthy on the go takes a bit more effort but is definitely doable with some planning and commitment. Prepare your food and stick to your plan, and you’ll feel better avoiding greasy fast food. Your body will thank you!
