7 Ways to Eat Clean on the Road

Hit the road the healthier way.

Does traveling trip up your healthy eating habits? Hitting the road doesn’t need to widen your waistline! Check out these 7 ways to eat clean on the road.

Whether you’re conferencing or sightseeing, traveling can seem like a healthy eating trap. Sometimes you’re tempted by tasty local fare that looks too good to pass up. Other times you might find yourself too busy to grab a bite – and then you overeat when you finally do get the chance.

But you don’t need to fall prey to the traps that have tripped you up in the past. We’re sharing no-hassle ways to eat clean, no matter where you are or what’s on the agenda.

Remember to make time to exercise during your travels. Try these 11 No-Excuse Workouts That Can Be Done Anywhere.

1. Eat 4-6 small meals each day.
Travel can be hectic. It’s not uncommon to skip meals while you’re on the road. Don’t do that to yourself! Eating regularly throughout the day maintains a steady blood sugar level so you’re less likely to overeat at meals. If you don’t have time to stop for a meal, check out the next step for ways to eat clean while you’re on the move.

2. Pack a snack stash.
Bringing your own clean-eating snacks helps you avoid convenience stores, fast food places, and other unhealthy eating traps. Pack fresh fruit and vegetables, if possible. Bananas and apples travel relatively well for short periods, as do sugar snap peas, sliced peppers, and baby carrots. Single-serve bags of unsalted nuts, like walnuts and almonds, are smart eating choices too. Try 15 Grab-n-Go Snacks or 100 Healthy Snacks to Eat On-the-Go.

3. Hydrate often.
Few things are as dehydrating as travel. Crazy schedules, dry hotel air, and other factors can make you feel like a dried-out husk. Always keep water on hand and sip it throughout the day. If you tend to forget to drink water, set an alarm on your smartphone to remind yourself to drink every 20-30 minutes. Get your trip off to a deliciously hydrating start by filling your to-go bottle with Strawberry-Basil Water or Morning Lemon & Mint Detox Water.

4. Keep tabs on alcohol consumption.
Whether you’re indulging in cocktails before the keynote or Mai Tais by the pool, drink alcohol, a major source of empty calories, in moderation. Reduce your consumption by drinking one full glass of water between each alcoholic beverage. Learn more about Happy Hour & Your Waistline. When you get home, try these 7 Non-Alcoholic Drinks.

5. Visit food markets instead of eating at restaurants.
Another way to eat clean while traveling is to take advantage of local food supermarkets, which often provide healthier options than typical restaurant fare. If there’s a fridge in your hotel or rental, stock it with healthy market foods like nonfat plain Greek yogurt, minimally-processed hummus, veggies, and fruit. Toss whole grain crackers or pretzels in your basket, too. You’ll save yourself calories, fat, and sugar. Your wallet will be happier, too!

6. Indulge occasionally.
Truth: some treats are meant to be savored. Don’t be afraid to let yourself indulge in local tastiness, whether it’s a cappuccino in Italy or shoofly pie in Amish country. The key is to stick to small portions. Dessert time is a fantastic time to share if you’ve got travel companions. Back at home, treat your sweet tooth to healthier dessert recipes like Apple Pie Flautas or No-Bake Almond Joy Cookies.

7. Eat smart when you eat out.
It can be tricky to completely avoid restaurants while traveling, so check out these basic guidelines for smart eating while you’re out-and-about. Find more tips in 5 Ways to Eat Healthy When You’re Eating Out.

  • Order the smallest portion available.
  • Choose dishes that are baked, roasted, steamed, broiled, or grilled.
  • Ask for vinegar, lemon, or extra virgin olive oil to dress salads.
  • Request that heavy sauces be served on the side to better control your intake. 

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How do you eat clean on the road? Let us know! Leave a comment below.

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Amy Wagner

Amy is a writer specializing in health & wellness, business, and entrepreneurship. She's a long-time martial arts teacher who has earned a 4th degree black belt in tae kwon do. When Amy's not writing or kicking, she's wrangling sons, reading fiction, or crushing on BBC actors.

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