As someone who loves to travel, I know just how difficult it can be to maintain any semblance of a healthy routine while in a new destination. Although it’s absolutely normal (and encouraged) to drop your usual routine and enjoy yourself fully, I find that I tend to feel better throughout the trip if I maintain a few healthy habits each day.
If you’re also curious as to what things you can do to stay healthy during your next trip, I’ve compiled a list of 10 habits to stay healthy while traveling. These have all made a big difference for me and I know they’ll do the same for you!
1. Stay Hydrated
This is an obvious one but it’s easy to get behind on your water intake when you’re busy exploring a new place. Since no one wants a headache or fatigue getting in the way of a good time, my number one tip to feel your best on vacation is to bring a reusable water bottle! You can fill it up each morning and use it to ensure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day and in between meals. For the days when I know I’ll be out in the sun or drinking a few cocktails, I like to bring my own electrolytes as well. Sugar-free Liquid I.V. is my go to and are perfectly travel sized. [Don’t forget to use my code MELANIE20 to get 20% off!]
2. Incorporate Movement Into Your Days
I know that moving my body is one of the best things I can do to keep my mood and energy up. Sometimes this means dedicating time to workout every morning, especially if I know the rest of the day will be spent lounging on a beach chair, but mostly I just incorporate activities into the itinerary. I’ll make sure to pack some cute workout outfits and my Bala resistance bands in case there’s not a good gym set up or fitness center. Whether that’s going for a hike, renting bikes to explore the town or choosing to walk to dinner instead of taking a taxi. I find that I don’t have to think too hard about this one as traveling almost always means lots of walking!
3. …But Also Leave Room for Down Time
I’m big on filling my trips with activities, in fact, my husband refers to me as “Activity Girl” because I love planning all kinds of fun sights to see and things to do while traveling. As much as I’m big on adventurous vacations, I also know that rest and relaxation goes a long way in helping me recharge and feel my best. I recommend dedicating at least one full day to doing a whole lot of “nothing.” Whether that means leisurely strolling through a cute neighborhood, spending lots of time in a cafe, or lounging by a pool. A little down time can go a long way.
4. Stretch It Out
As much as I love traveling to far off destinations, the long flights to get there can be the absolute worst. One thing that tends to help me feel more energized and release tight, stiff muscles after flying is to spend a few minutes stretching. A few basic stretches every morning and before/after a long hike or walk is helpful to prevent injuries and soreness too. Here’s a quick 15-min stretch routine you can try!
5. Wear Supportive Shoes
Nothing ruins a good day like sore feet. Whether you’re hiking through a national park or just exploring an old city with lots of cobblestone streets, quality shoes can make all the difference! I make sure to bring a comfy pair of walking sneakers like THESE ones from New Balance that will keep my feet happy (and look cute!). If I know hikes will be involved I prefer to bring I bring a pair of heels for a fancy dinner out but try to keep the rest of my footwear to supportive sandals and sneakers.
6. Don’t Skip the SPF!
Since traveling typically goes hand in hand with a lot of time spent outside, being extra diligent about SPF is even more important. Even though I can tan VERY easily, my skin tends to be a bit more sensitive and as I get older I want to minimize as much sun damage as possible. If you are wearing sunscreen and plan to swim in the ocean, it’s also important to choose SPF brands that are reef safe. Sun Bum mineral sunscreen tends to be my go to since they’re made without parabens and are cruelty free. I’ve also been really liking the Toty Mineral SPF 50 to put on my face before layering on any makeup.
7. Unplug and Disconnect
One of the best parts about vacation for me is taking some time to unplug from social media and be present. Sometimes I’ll share daily updates on Stories but many times I choose to do a recap at the end. Either way, I put the focus on fully experiencing and sharing vs. consuming any content or work emails while I’m on vacation. This allows my mind to fully relax and tune into the experience of being in a new place. Don’t underestimate the power of a mental reset. In many ways I feel like it tends to be even more needed than the physical relaxation.
8. Pack Healthy Snacks for Travel Days
Travel days can be hectic and you never really know what kind of food options will be available. Airport food can always be hit or miss so it can be comforting to know that I have some of my favorite healthy snacks in my bag. It’s an easy way to stay energized throughout the day and keep from getting hangry. Bonus points if you pack a few extras for your travel companions!
9. Try to Keep a Regular Sleep Schedule
I am someone who really needs at least 8 hours of sleep to feel like a functional human being, so it’s important for me to try to keep a regular sleep schedule even while traveling. Whenever there’s a big time difference involved I find it best to stay awake extra late the first night to try to get my body to adjust to the new time zone quickly. If you have trouble falling asleep, you could try taking melatonin (I like Olly’s Sleep gummies) before bed or listening to a sleep podcast.
10. Listen to Your Body
It really comes down to listening to your body and making sure that you’re giving it what it needs so that you can have the best possible time. Sometimes this looks like making sure to eat a fresh, healthy meal if you’re feeling sluggish or skipping the museum to take a rest break in the park if you’re feeling worn out. There’s no shame in not doing everything on your travel bucket list while on vacation. If anything it gives you an excuse to come back another time! Not to mention it’ll be so much easier to fully enjoy your trip if you take care of yourself and allow for flexibility.
I hope you find these tips helpful and if you’re looking for some travel inspo, be sure to check out my 10 Day Italy Itinerary, a Dog Friendly Getaway in Stowe, Vermont, Things to Do in San Luis Obispo and more in the travel section of my blog!
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