Going on a vacation doesn’t mean you have to take a vacation from your diet (that is, unless you want to). However, you may still feel tempted to indulge in certain “bad” foods or even find there are no healthy options where you’re going.
The truth? You have much more control over what you eat when you’re on vacation than you may think. If you don’t want to cheat on your diet while you’re traveling the world or sightseeing across the states, here’s how to successfully maintain eating healthy while on vacation.
Look at the Menu Options and Local Cuisine Beforehand
Whether you’re going on a cruise or taking a trip to a mountain resort, it can be helpful to know what kind of cuisine will be accessible or what the menu will be for your specific vacation.
This way, you can create a plan of action, so you already know what you’ll be eating when you get there. You’ll also have a great idea of healthier alternatives anytime cravings strike.
Another added benefit of doing this research in advance is that you get to maximize your nutrition. For instance, sprouts are a common ingredient in many restaurants, and they’re packed with essential vitamins.
If you see, for example, a steak that’s topped with sprouts and veggies on the side, you can keep it in mind for when you want a more indulgent meal.
Make Food in Your Hotel Room
Eating out all the time when you’re on vacation isn’t just bad for you—it can be bad for your wallet, too. A fantastic way to eat healthy on vacation while saving money is by preparing your own food in your hotel room or vacation rental.
This can be a little hard if you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t have a kitchen. In this situation, try grabbing a sandwich, salad or other prep-free items from a grocery store deli.
Got at least a mini fridge where you’re staying? Consider pumping up the nutritional value of your grab-and-go items by adding superfoods. It’s easy to keep Greek yogurt, berries and Nature Jim’s sprouts fresh for your entire trip.
If even just once per day you manage to enjoy a hearty salad or homemade meal, you’ll be well on your way to eating healthy while on vacation.
Pack Snacks When You Plan on Engaging in Activities
It’s tempting to stop anywhere to eat on vacation when the mood strikes, which is how some people find themselves loading up on foods that don’t align with their healthy eating goals.
The best way to reduce cravings and make sure you’re eating healthy foods when you’re doing things, like touring a city or enjoying local scenery, is to bring along snacks. Healthy sandwiches, trail mix, fruit and bottled water are all great options to carry with you no matter where your journey takes you.
Don’t Completely Restrain Yourself
While sticking to your diet is great, restricting yourself and avoiding anything that doesn’t fall within your diet can produce the opposite effect, resulting in binging on “bad foods.”
Treat yourself every now and again on vacation and at home. Always remember, occasionally enjoying foods that don’t perfectly align with your goals doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
Eating healthy on vacation can seem like a challenge, but you have more power here than you realize! Leverage the advice above to stick to your diet and make healthy food choices no matter where you go in the world. When you eat healthy on a trip, you’ll have more energy to explore your trip destination and make amazing memories.
About the Author
George Reynolds
Nature Jim's Sprouts Owner and CEO
Since 1996, George has been working hands on with all thing’s spouts, sprouting and sprouting seeds. He is also a natural health and well-being enthusiast who believes in the power of good health habits. George’s focus on healthy food, nutrition and exercise aligns perfectly with his many years of professional experience as the President of Nature Jim’s Sprouts and Reynolds Industries.
George firmly believes in the health benefits of sprouts and makes them a part of his daily diet. His favorite way to eat sprouts is raw and on sandwiches and salads.
Learn More
