Are you planning to hit the road? A vacation or road trip doesn’t necessarily mean you have to break your diet or give up healthy eating. With a bit of advanced planning, healthy eating on the road can be seamless and stress-free. To jump start your healthy eating on the road, take a glance at our nutritious tips for road trips.
Meal Prep
Whether you’re traveling with the family or sans kids, it’s important to plan your meals in advance. Curate menus ahead of time to avoid hiccups along your route. Consider storing bite-sized snacks, like carrots and trail mix, in air-tight containers for a mess-free cleanup. Consider highway-friendly meals like pasta salad, sandwiches, and hummus for your meal prep.
Check the Nutritional Information
It’s easy to get swept up in the fast food frenzy while on the road, so plan your stops ahead of time as much as possible. All chain restaurants should have their nutritional menu online to help make informed decisions. Be aware of how calories can sneak into your favorite foods. For instance, salad dressings and condiments quickly add up and can derail your good intentions. Consider asking for special dietary menu options, like trading in a bun for a lettuce wrap when a burger is in your future.
Bypass the Buffet
Buffets offer a quick way to feed large groups of people simultaneously, which makes it a prevalent feature in many hotels. If given the option, bypass the buffet to avoid slip-ups and instead opt for the a-la-carte option at the restaurant. You will thank yourself later!
Fruit Options
As you fill up at the pump, make a conscious effort to fill up your belly with fruit at the same time. At gas stations and other breaking points along the way, purchase small fruit cups to supplement your snack options. Alternatively, pack a mix of fresh fruit that does not require refrigeration, such as apples, bananas, and grapes.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to mistake dehydration for food cravings, so consider sipping at least 8 ounces of water before satisfying any hunger pangs. To prevent dehydration on the road, keep a refillable water bottle with you and gallons of water in the trunk.
Though it’s a bit harder to maintain optimal nutrition when you’re out of your element, it’s certainly not impossible. Healthy eating on the road can be achieved with a bit of advanced planning and commitment. Do you have any tips for healthy eating on the road? We would love to hear from you! Drop your suggestions in the comment section below or connect with us on social media.
