Now that summer is really & truly here, all thoughts turn to the Great Vacation. These vacations can often become the places where healthy habits go to die, which can ruin a much anticipated adventure.
SO wherever your destination, here are some tips to stay healthy in the midst of constant change and erratic, if totally fun, schedules.
1. Plan, Plan, Plan. Take the time to research where you are going, what you want to see & do, and how to manage expectations, so that once you are there, you can really dive in!
2. Pack Right and Pack Light. Take exactly what you need and no more, which makes it easier to carry your luggage and gives you room for souvenirs! Check out the TSA website if you are flying, so that you don’t have any annoying surprises at the airport. For more advice on what to bring, check out: https://www.nytimes.com/guides/travel/how-to-pack-a-suitcase
3. Stretch It Out. Take a few minutes to stretch before you start your day of sightseeing or beach combing.
4. Eat Breakfast. Don’t skip this essential meal. You can save money and make it yourself, with or without a kitchen. Fruit, baked goods, nuts, peanut butter … there are lots of healthy options to start your day with energy!
5. Take Snacks. Speaking of healthy, economical food, there are plenty of portable snacks to help balance your hunger and keep costs down throughout the day, like apples, bananas, trail mix, dried fruits, reusable insulated water bottles for holding smoothies, iced herbal teas and other drinks, energy bars, and nuts and seeds.
6. Pace Yourself. Don’t try to do everything or push your family to squeeze in too many activities. Pick and choose the most important and give everyone the opportunity to make choices. You will enjoy it more if you’re not rushed.
7. Hydrate. Carry water with you and drink it down. Your body will thank you.
8. Protect Your Skin. Use sunscreen, whether you are in the woods or pounding the pavement. The damaging rays of the sun filter through, even on cloudy days.
9. Walk Every Day. Exploring your destination on foot allows you to sneak in some exercise while traveling. Grab a map, get lost, get found, and take in the sights, smells, and sounds. This is a great way to make amazing, unexpected discoveries.
10. SLEEP, SLEEP, & MORE SLEEP. Travel is hard on your body so make sure you get plenty of rest. Don’t be shy about a nap or sleeping in some mornings — you will get more out of your trip if your body is refreshed!