How to Maintain Your Wellness Routine While Traveling
Traveling can be exciting and refreshing, but it often throws off our usual health and wellness routines. Whether you’re heading out for a business trip or family vacation, staying on track with your wellness habits can be challenging. As I get ready for my upcoming trip to Alaska—my first longer trip in a while—I’ve been reflecting on how to stay on track. With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can maintain your routine and feel great while still enjoying your travels. Here are some practical tips that have worked for me and can help you stay healthy and balanced on the go.
- Plan ahead: Before you leave, take some time to prepare for your trip by thinking about what you’ll need to maintain your wellness routine, whether that may be certain supplements, snacks or devices, be sure to pack thoughtfully. I like to bring along high protein snacks such as meat sticks or nuts that travel well and don’t need to be refrigerated. I also bring bone broth powder so I can make bone broth each morning since all that is required is hot water. By preparing ahead of time, you’re setting yourself up for success and reducing the temptation to fall back on less healthy options.
- Stay active: You don’t need a full gym to stay active while traveling. There are plenty of ways to get your body moving and maintain your fitness routine. If you’re exploring a new city, opt to walk instead of using public transportation. This not only helps you stay active but also allows you to discover more of your destination. The key is to stay flexible. You might not have access to your usual gym or workout equipment, but you can still find ways to move your body every day.
- Prioritize hydration and nutrition: It’s easy to get dehydrated or grab unhealthy meals when you’re on the go, but with a little mindfulness, you can still nourish your body properly. Always carry a refillable water bottle and aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. This is especially important when flying, as air travel can cause dehydration. I like to bring the LMNT electrolyte packs to put into my water. Choose whole, nutrient-dense foods whenever possible but still enjoy yourself and the food wherever you are traveling to!
- Stick to your sleep routine: Travel can often disrupt your sleep schedule, especially if you’re crossing time zones or staying in unfamiliar places. Create a sleep-friendly environment, pack earplugs, a sleep mask, and perhaps even a small pillow to help you sleep comfortably. Practice deep breathing, stretching, or a short meditation before bed to help you wind down and sleep more soundly.
- Be kind to yourself and stay flexible: It’s important to remember that traveling is about enjoying new experiences and making memories. While it’s great to stay committed to your wellness goals, it’s also okay to indulge and adapt to your surroundings. Your routine won’t be perfect while traveling, and that’s okay. Focus on maintaining the core elements of your wellness routine—like hydration, healthy eating, and movement—without stressing over every detail. Part of traveling is trying new foods and experiencing local culture. Allow yourself to enjoy these moments without guilt!
Traveling doesn’t have to derail your wellness routine. By planning ahead, staying active, prioritizing hydration and nutrition, and being flexible, you can maintain your health while enjoying all the experiences your travels have to offer. Remember, wellness is a journey—so enjoy the ride and take care of yourself along the way!
