One of the things I love about blogging is the amazing community of other bloggers with whom I’ve connected. I love being a part of a community of like minded women who cheer each other on and support one another. I came across Carrie from My Crazy Green Life, a wellness lifestyle blog, and instantly knew she was my kind of person. I loved her content so I reached out to her and asked if she would be interested in doing a blog post swap with me, where we each feature a blog post from one another on our blogs. Carrie was kind enough to share this post on healthy travel, which is so timely because I will be going to Italy for our honeymoon in just a few weeks. Enjoy!
Staying on top of what you eat while on the road, the trail, or simply lounging by the pool can be tricky. To help you stay on track I gathered up a few of my favorite tips to staying healthy while traveling, and added a few good ideas from some of some Travel Blogger friends!
First things first. Packing. It is not easy to pack for a vacation and airlines don’t make it easy with their luggage fees. So how can you account for all your organic, natural and homeopathic hygienic needs? By moving everything into smaller TSA approved containers. I know, it’s a task but considering the alternatives shopping or shipping it may be worth the hassle.
Shipping – If you are going away for more than a few days, the only alternative is to mail a package of items to your hotel before you leave. I am not against this idea if I am going away for more than 7 days!
Shopping – Upon arrival, locate the nearest (if available) grocery store. Grab all the items you need. Keep in mind, this takes time away from your vacation, natural products may not be available, and they may cost more than what you normally would pay. To combat this, do your research ahead of time! Planning will make a huge difference.
CHECKOUT MY QUICK REFERENCE PACKING CHECK LIST!
- Shampoo and Conditioner – (if you don’t mind using a two-in-one Shampoo + Conditioner this is a good space saver!
- Non-aluminum deodorant – I like Earth Mama or Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant
- Razor
- Simple make-up needs
- Non Toxic Sunblock – I use Goddess Garden Organics SPF 30
- Bug Spray – DoTerra Terra Shield is compact and all natural!
- All natural Body lotion – There is an array of choices out there!
- Medication if necessary
What about snacks?
1. Save some space – in your checked bag for a stash of “good for you snacks”! Our favorites are;
- Beef jerky
- Nuts
- Organic Snack Bars – Rx Bars are mr favorite!
- Dried or fresh fruit
- Individual packets of nut butter – Have you tried Justin’s ? It comes in a variety of nut flavors.
- Dried chickpeas – What? Yes, and they taste great! I
- Whole grain crackers
2. Plan eating wisely – Try not to put yourself in a “I am starving” situation. Ditch the burgers, fries and mayo smothered sandwiches. If you are about to sit on an airplane, a tour bus or train for 1/2 a day, ask for a turkey lettuce wrap, a salad or a mix of protein packed individual items like nuts, a banana and some nut butter.
3. No time for airport food? – If you are forced to eat on the plane you don’t have to binge on Jack and Coke with a side of pretzels…. Todays airlines are catching on that passengers want more than peanuts. Some airlines offer protein boxes with hummus, and whole-grain crackers, all of these options provide a balance of protein, fat, and complex carbs.
4. When in Rome – You are on vacation, so don’t beat yourself up if you dive into the local fare. In many countries, part of the culture and experience of your trip is the FOOD! This is where planning comes into the equation. Look into what is available in the area for fresh foods, types of restaurants and plan out what is an absolute MUST TRY and what you can either pass on or substitute.
5. Exercising on the road – Sounds crazy? I swear it’s not! Many hotels and resorts offer gyms with amazing, top-of-the-line equipment and unique group classes. There is NOTHING wrong with working out while on vacation. My fiancée thinks differently on this, but I feel my best when I exercise a couple times a week. No matter what Hemisphere I am in : )
Happy Travels!