One can expect to encounter busy roads, airports and train stations when traveling during the holidays. In fact, the Thanksgiving holiday is the busiest travel time of the year. I don’t like to travel much during the holiday season, but here are some of my best tips for having a healthy trip no matter the time of year or your method of travel.
Have healthy snacks
Plan, plan, plan! Don’t depend on the convenience stores along the highway, or the fast food restaurants to fuel your body when taking a long trip. For the road, pack a cooler bag with energizing snacks that will control your hunger. At the airport or train station, choose wisely by avoiding fried foods, snacks that are high in sodium, sugar and fat, and sugary beverages.
Try packs of nuts (almonds, walnuts, and peanuts), low-sugar cereal bars, air-popped popcorn, low-fat cheese sticks, baby carrots, dried fruits, oranges, and PLENTY of water.
Have fun activities
Kids and adults want to be entertained when waiting for long periods of time or taking a lengthy trip, but have some alternatives to excessive screen time. Bring along some cards games, books, coloring books (for adults as well!), or come up with your own fun family games (I like the ABC sign game for the road!).
Have a plan for being active
Although a full exercise routine may not be possible during a trip, a few stretch breaks along the way are very beneficial. If you can, get up every 30 minutes and walk around, march in place, do arm circles, forwards bends, or anything that keeps your body feeling loose. When you reach your destination, research local walking trails and parks, locate the hotel gym, or schedule time for body weight exercises you can do anywhere (Youtube is a great resource for this).
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