by Caitlin H,
December 11, 2023
The busy holiday travel season is just around the corner.
And if you’re like the millions of Americans who plan to hop on a plane home for the holidays or vacation, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your weight loss goals.
Below, we’ve listed 7 ways to stick to healthy eating and fitness habits even when you’re packing your bags and getting ready to go.
1) Book an accommodation with a kitchen
Nothing adds a quick calorie boost like eating out for every meal. In fact, a 2010 study found that the average restaurant portion size was 2-3 times larger than what the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend.
If you don’t live with family, buy a room with a kitchen or kitchenette or rent it. This way, you can cook your own meals with fewer calories and oversized portions.
2) Pack for success.
Among the gifts for grandma, knitted sweaters, snow boots, and winter gloves, make sure you’re also prepared with all the gear you need to maintain your fitness routine. A travel-sized yoga mat, workout leggings and shirts, sports bras, and sneakers should all go in your luggage.
Also, be sure to pack healthy snacks and an empty water bottle in your carry-on bag. Having items like individually wrapped almond buns, granola or protein bars, or even a piece of fruit will help ensure that you bypass all the candy bars, chips, and sodas displayed at every airport convenience store. You can refill your water bottles after passing security.
3) Use the hotel swimming pool or gym
Most hotels offer swimming pools and fitness centers as amenities. Don’t ignore them. Commit to starting your day with 45 minutes of exercise or relaxing with a few laps in the pool in the evening.
4) Take active outings.
Leisure travel doesn’t have to mean lounging poolside. There are lots of fun and sport-related activities. Examples include sightseeing, hiking and destination sports.
5) Stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water when traveling is essential to staying energized and on track. This is especially true if you’re going somewhere that has a drastic change in climate from the climate you’re used to, such as a ski trip in the mountains.
6) Eat wisely.
Even if you book a restaurant with a kitchen, there’s a good chance you’ll visit a restaurant when you travel. Be sure to check the menu online in advance. Try to choose a restaurant with healthy menu items and a calm atmosphere. When ordering, choose broth-based soups, salads and menu items that don’t include words like “loaded” or “fried.” Eat This, Not That provides a comprehensive guide to help you make healthy choices when dining out.
7) Have fun!
The holidays are supposed to be a blast! Use these tips to keep you on track, but don’t become so rigid that you can’t enjoy your trip. If you’ve been on a weight loss plan* for a while, take a moment each night to celebrate your continued success and all the little victories at the end of each day.
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Author: Caitlin H
Food community manager
Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about connecting with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key and that people will have the greatest weight loss success if they practice common-sense healthy eating and fitness.