The Ultimate Guide To Healthy Eating While Traveling

Most of us share the long-term goal of wanting to feel healthy, happy, and satisfied, and our diets sure play a part in that. Eating well means being aware of what our bodies need, while fueling them with proper nutrition to create balance. Traveling is one of those activities that can hugely throw us and our bodies off track, and we all know how easy it is to steer from our normal dietary routines. In this article, we’ll discuss ways that you can stay balanced and energized while traveling for vegan and non-vegan diets. 

How To Eat a Vegan Diet When Traveling

Find vegan spots wherever you go

 

Vegan restaurants are constantly growing in popularity all over the world. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, research the destination and find the best vegan spots in town. Travel planning websites like Yelp and HappyCow, are both helpful tools that will show you the nearest vegan and vegetarian friendly restaurants around. If you’re in a rush, consider a cafe or natural food store for quick options. 

Be aware of grocery stores and natural food shops around 


In addition to vegan restaurants, know where health food stores are around the area you’re traveling to. Vegan friendly stores are perfect for picking up healthy snacks, fresh ingredients, and on-the-go meals to bring around on your travels. Shopping at a healthy food store is also more affordable than eating at restaurants, which makes it a great travel choice. 

Book an AirBnb or hotel suite with kitchen 


Vegan meals aren’t always easy to prepare, which means realistically an accessible kitchen is best when traveling. Not only that, but cooking meals yourself will be more cost-effective. Cooking for yourself also gives you more clarity as to what ingredients are in your food, and if they’re fresh or not. If a full kitchen isn’t practical, try to at least get a room with a small fridge, microwave, and counter space for preparing food. 

How To Eat Balanced When Traveling

Choose fun, cultural dishes that include nutritious ingredients 


Part of traveling to different parts of the world is getting to try exciting new dishes of diverse cultures. For example, if you’re vacationing in Belize make sure to explore the authentic and diverse cuisines in the country. Many international cuisines are also made with fresh and natural ingredients, powerful herbs, and healthy proteins. Try to stick to meals that focus on protein, veggies, and whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, amaranth, and lentils. 

Bring perishable snacks on-the-go


Pack healthy snacks in an easily accessible bag to munch on throughout the day. Protein bars, roasted chickpeas, beef jerky, dried fruit, and trail mix are all fantastic and tasty options that will provide a little energy kick. Some of our favorite snacks include: 

Stay hydrated

 
Hydration is key, and that especially applies when traveling. Your body can feel like it is thrown out of synch when you develop new habits, even for a short period time. When travel plans arise that leave you walking, hiking, kayaking, ziplining or sightseeing, it’s less likely that you’re going to be putting enough water in your body. Some useful hydration tips when traveling include: 


  • Using a fun water bottle to refill wherever possible
  • Consider an electrolyte supplement, like Liquid IV for extra hydration 
  • Always order water when you eat out
  • Cook for yourself at least once a day 
  • Whenever possible and convenient, purchase wholesome ingredients to cook for yourself. You can still enjoy the cultural cuisine aspect by selecting ingredients from a local grocery store. 
  • As with anything, wholesome, nutritious eating doesn’t mean restricting. A healthy lifestyle means letting yourself enjoy dessert, which promotes dietary balance.

Other healthy eating helpful tips for busy lifestyles 

  • Keep nutritious, high-protein snacks at work for break time
  • Wake up early to enjoy a filling breakfast
  • Consider a meal delivery service like Diet-to-Go or Hello Fresh
  • Try eating at the same or similar times each day

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