This article was written in collaboration with Cardable. Find out more at the end of the article.
Often, travelling makes for an escape, both in the headspace and diet department. Since we’re miles away from home, why not just eat whatever our stomach and tastebuds desire? Eating healthy while travelling is often the furthest thing from our minds as we explore a new place. However, if you’ve been in this situation before, you’d know that it isn’t always the smartest choice - eating anything and everything usually results in consequences such as fatigue, poor digestion, and unwanted weight gain.
But, it doesn't have to be that way! You don’t have to be a health nut to follow these tips we’ve curated for a healthier travelling diet—after all, a healthy mind and body are the two best things you can have while travelling!
Image credit: Unsplash
Snack Prep
We’ve all heard of meal preps but snack preps are easier and something we can all adopt—think dark chocolate, granola, seeds and nuts; dried fruits also make for a good alternative. They’re easy to keep and palatable; snacking healthy won’t be a chore and with a variety to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re about to board the plane or feeling peckish at night, opting for healthier, filling snacks will help keep the hunger pangs at bay without requiring you to whip up a storm in the kitchen.
Locating Local Groceries And Markets
Each city has its own selection of fresh produce that you can choose from if you have a kitchen you can utilise in your AirBnb, hotel room or hostel. Boiled eggs, for example, make an excellent breakfast choice that will sustain you - plus, they require only two ingredients! Purchasing simple things like water, fresh fruit, and bakery items at groceries and markets also tends to be more affordable than buying them on-the-go at international chains of convenience stores.
Eat Smart When Dining Out
Most people think eating healthy while dining out is nearly impossible, but you’ll be surprised by how easy it is—just don’t shy away from requesting for substitutions. Instead of dressing for your salad, opt for olive oil. If you’re not a fan of salads, requesting an extra helping of greens or holding off the bun on burgers are some ways around the calories. Most restaurants would be more than happy to make these changes for you, especially if you have any diet restrictions. Cheat days are allowed—in my humble opinion, almost necessary—of course. Naturally, you shouldn’t completely blow your diet out of proportion by eating whatever your heart desires for all three meals. Moderation builds the foundation of a healthy, well-rounded diet so pick a meal of a day to be your cheat meal and your body will thank you for it!
Image credit: Unsplash
Watch Your Booze
As tempting as it can be to let loose and drink all the booze, remember that alcohol contains lots of calories - and also tends to bring about a serious case of the munchies, which can lead to overeating. You’re more likely to indulge in unhealthy food under the influence of alcohol - and seriously regret it the day after! If you choose to drink, wine or light beers make better alcoholic alternatives; but do keep to two drinks or less and you’ll have a merrier time the next morning!
Have Multiple Meals
Each meal doesn’t have to be of equal weight—sporadic meals help keep your hunger levels low without you losing the nutrients you need. Having smaller meals throughout the day will have you less likely to snack on junk foods. Consider having smaller meals like handfuls of nuts or fruit in between breakfast, lunch and dinner to fuel your adventure!
Stay Hydrated
One of the most important things most travellers forget to do while spending the day exploring is staying hydrated. Sometimes, thirst can be mistaken as hunger. No matter how jetlagged or engrossed you are, be sure to always carry water with you wherever you go!
Image credit: YouTube
Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just simply looking for ways around eating healthy while travelling, these are some easy tips you can adopt for your travels. If you’re looking for a new destination to explore or have been eyeing flight prices, check Cardable for the latest travel promotions. It’s important you take good care of yourself, more so when you’re miles away from home. Wanderlust should not only lead you to experience Earth’s treasures, but to a happy tummy and mind as well!
Cardable is a platform that brings together the best in credit card loyalty promotions for the Asian consumer. Check out Cardable for the best travel deals that you can get with your credit cards! Your wallets will thank you for it.