Maintaining a healthy diet doesn’t come without obstacles. Life gets busy, work goes late, and before you know it, you’ve eaten 3 fast food meals in one day—or you’ve forgotten to eat altogether. The solution to healthy eating, though often easier said than done, is to simply plan ahead. Prep the week’s meals on a Sunday night. Make enough food to bring leftovers to work the next day. Although both great ways to make sure you’re eating right, what about those times when you don’t have the luxury of your own kitchen or a fridge full of healthy groceries? There’s no question that staying healthy while travelling comes with its own set of challenges, but it’s not impossible; read on for healthy eating tips. They will help you stay on track while you’re away from home.
A tip to start your trip off on the right foot
Let’s be honest, no one actually likes airport food, and I think it’s safe to say no one looks forward to the meals served on the plane either. So instead of aimlessly searching the airport for something edible, or settling for tasteless airplane food, why not pack your own food in advance? A homemade sandwich, a salad, or a bowl of grains are easy options to take with you, and bonus, they won’t make you feel heavy or bloated throughout the flight. While you’re at it, throw in some healthy snacks like nuts, granola bars, dried fruit, or dark chocolate so that you have something satisfying to keep you going while you’re in the air or en route to your hotel. Another healthy eating tip. Staying hydrated is also really important when flying, so be sure to buy a big bottle of water, or better yet, if you have a reusable water bottle, be sure to fill it up before you board.
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Stick to your routine
Of course, you’ll have a different schedule than normal while travelling, but if you can stick to something resembling your everyday routine, your body will thank you. This includes trying to eat 3 meals a day, choosing foods you would normally eat at home (as much as you can), and continuing with any vitamins or supplements you take on a regular basis. If you normally start your day off with a protein smoothie, try packing some travel-sized protein packs and making a protein shake with nut milk or water. Or, if you notice you’re not getting enough greens while on the road, bring along a greens powder and make yourself some green juice first thing in the morning. These are small portable items that can make a big difference when it comes to how you feel.
Don’t overindulge
It’s one thing if you’re on vacation and have decided that this is your time to abandon all rules, but if you’re a frequent traveller or are travelling for business, it’s going to be helpful to treat your travel days just like any old day. For example, if you’re not in the habit of starting your day off with a muffin or a croissant, don’t just do it because it’s being served as part of your hotel’s continental breakfast. Instead, choose fruit, oatmeal or eggs—something substantial that will give you energy for the day ahead. You don’t have to skip out on the fun by always making the healthy choice. If you’re out for dinner with your co-workers and they’re all ordering pizza, then go for it. It’s just important not to treat a business trip like a free pass. Enjoy the pizza, but try opting for a salad or something else a little more nutrient dense for your next meal.
At the end of the day, travelling can be exhausting, and sometimes you just won’t have the energy or the option to make healthy food choices. But if you can plan ahead as much as possible, arm yourself with healthy meals and snacks, and try to practice a little self-control when it comes to what you’re eating (and drinking), you’ll get through your trip with more energy—and won’t feel like you completely fell off the healthy eating wagon once you’re back at home.
