Heading out on a journey, whether for business or pleasure, is usually pretty exciting. However, the allure of a fun experience often comes hand-in-hand with challenges. It’s difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on the road, for instance. Snacking on those salty treats and sitting for hours can throw a wrench in your health game.
In this article, you’ll uncover a collection of travel hacks designed to help prioritize your health. You’ll arrive at your destination with a sense of adventure and a refreshed and revitalized body and mind.
1. Skip Salty Snacks and Fizzy Drinks
Picture this: you’re at a gas station or convenience store, and you’re eyeing spicy Cheetos and a Mountain Dew. Bad idea! Overly processed snacks and carbonation can leave you feeling bloated and uncomfortable for the rest of your trip.
Instead, pack a cooler with fresh fruits and veggies that are snack-sized and ready to eat on the road. They’re not just healthy, but they keep you hydrated, too. If you have to grab something on the go, aim for snacks loaded with protein. Protein keeps you full, stabilizes blood sugar, and reduces food cravings. Choose foods like Greek yogurt, beef jerky, nuts, or pumpkin seeds.
If you want something quicker, you can incorporate protein powders or supplements. ACV gummies are a great daily supplement to add to your diet if you’re a frequent traveler. They can offer a convenient way to support digestion and overall wellness while on the go. The compact, portable nature of gummies makes them easy to pack, and there’s no need for measuring or mixing.
2. Pack High-Fiber Snacks
You tend not to think about your gut health until it’s bothering you. If you’ve got a trip coming up, be sure to treat your gut right from the get-go. Consume high-fiber snacks, which keep things running smoothly in the digestive department. They also give you that full feeling for the long haul. Fiber also lowers blood sugar levels, which decreases cravings.
Load up your travel snack stash with prunes, raspberries, broccoli, carrots, oat bran muffins, and air-popped popcorn. These high-fiber snack choices keep your digestion in check and ensure you stay satisfied during your journey.
3. Be Active When Given the Opportunity
Cars, planes, and trains leave little opportunity for movement. Long hours of sitting can leave your body feeling like it’s done a few rounds with a sumo wrestler. The antidote? Get moving whenever you can.
Whether it’s a quick stretch at a pit stop or a brisk walk during layovers, every bit of movement counts. Not only does it keep your physical health in check, but it’s also a secret weapon for maintaining your mental well-being. When you reach your destination, don’t forget to keep the momentum going. Take the stairs at the hotel or squeeze in a quick workout at the gym or pool. Your body will thank you for it.
4. Stay Hydrated
Most people don’t realize how dehydrating travel can be. Air travel, in particular, poses challenges, because the low humidity levels in planes can lead to dehydration. Humidity levels in most planes range from 10% to 20% at cruising altitudes. When you compare that to the comfort levels of 30% to 60%, you can see how it would affect you. The low oxygen pressure can cause water to evaporate from your skin and lungs as you exhale.
The effects of mild dehydration can result in headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Fight this condition throughout your journey by carrying a reusable single-serving water bottle and consistently sipping water. You can also add drinks with electrolytes, such as Pedialyte or Gatorade. As much as you might not want to hear it, it’s also wise to avoid alcohol to keep your body hydrated during travel.
5. Bring a Travel Pillow and Eye Mask
Getting some quality rest during the unpredictability of travel is important. A travel pillow offers comfort and support, allowing you to rest. You can get sleep even in less-than-ideal conditions, like a cramped plane or train seat. It’s great to have on a long journey because of its ability to prevent neck pain.
Along with a travel pillow, an eye mask is equally indispensable. It allows you to sleep in darkness during the day or in situations where ambient light may disturb your rest. Even in hotels, an eye mask can be a saving grace if the room isn’t dark enough. By investing in these effective accessories, you can greatly improve your quality of sleep. This will add to a more enjoyable and health-conscious travel experience.
6. Adjust Your Schedule
If your travels take you to a different time zone, you’ll want to adapt to the new local time. This is helpful for minimizing the effects of jet lag and maintaining your well-being. It might be tempting to succumb to exhaustion and immediately crawl into bed upon arrival, but you really shouldn’t. It’s best to conform to the new time zone’s schedule. Aim to sleep and eat according to your usual routine but using the time zone of your destination.
Exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, can help reset your circadian rhythm. Seek out the morning sun, because exposure to sunlight signals to your brain that it’s time to be awake. This adjustment can allow your body to transition more smoothly so you enjoy your trip without the drag of jet lag.
A Healthy Journey
Incorporating these travel hacks into your journey isn’t just about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It’s about making conscious choices that add to a more fulfilling travel experience. If you adhere to these tips, your travel will not only be enjoyable but it’ll also promote your overall well-being.
So, the next time you head out on an adventure, take advantage of these travel hacks. They’ll help to make your journey as healthy and fulfilling as possible. Safe travels!
