10 Fun and Easy Vacation Tips!
Are you planning an August vacation? Getting in a time away before Fall sets in and the kids go back to school?
Here are 10 fun and easy tips to use to enjoy your vacation AND keep your health and wellness on track.
VACATION TIP #1: Stock the kitchen!
Got a VRBO? Cook some of your own meals!
Take advantage of booking a VRBO or a room with a kitchenette and cook your own meals. You’ll save a ton of money by stocking up meals from the local grocery store which is likely to sell local favorites to the area while listing their nutritional facts. Also, take note of what appliances are stocked as blenders are great ways to make delicious smoothies that will likely cost you three times as much if you were to buy them instead.
VACATION TIP #2: Enjoy the grub!
Splurge on local goodies!
It’s ok to splurge a little on local fare you can’t get elsewhere. Don’t go too overboard, but don’t depress yourself, either. Go ahead and enjoy the world’s best ice cream, just make sure it’s a single scoop and eat consciously for other meals.
VACATION TIP #3: Pack it up!
Brown bag some good stuff when you’re out to visit tourist destinations!
Feel free to brown-bag your favorite fruits, protein bars, and other healthy snacks, so you’re not stuck with unhealthy meal options which plague most tourist destinations.
VACATION TIP #4: Be a local!
Check out the Farmer’s Market!
Spend the day enjoying artisanal goods first-hand by visiting the local Farmer’s Market. The fair prices and true cultural experiences are great additions to picking up fresh snacks for the week and locally crafted souvenirs.
VACATION TIP #5: Get creative!
Enjoy local activities like walking, swimming, or horseback riding!
You don’t have to specifically book a place that has a fitness center to stay active. In fact, you’re likely to be just as active by enjoying local activities such as walking the boardwalk, biking with family, swimming with friends, or even horseback riding. The options are endless so live a little and save the gym workouts for home.
VACATION TIP #6: Preview online!
Check out your menu options ahead of time!
Let’s face it, you’ll be dining out on vacation, and there’s no reason to feel guilty if you do your research beforehand. Hop online before you head out and preview the menu options. You may realize that the restaurant wasn’t what you thought at all, or perhaps they have the perfect options for you. Either way, you’ll know what you’re walking into, and you’ll enjoy it even more.
VACATION TIP #7: Drink in moderation!
No explanation needed!
A single sugar-laden margarita can contain over 700 calories! Choose healthier choices instead like a white-wine spritzer, a light beer, or a hard liquor on the rocks.
VACATION TIP #8: Skip the buffet!
If that’s all there is, choose the smallest plate!
Hot breakfast buffets are hard to pass up when they are included with your stay, but they are even harder to work off later on. If the buffet can’t be avoided as an option, choose the smallest plate they offer and fill it with as many fruits and vegetables as possible. You’ll fill up faster than you think and you won’t feel guilty splurging on a special meal later.
VACATION TIP #9: Beware of jetlag!
Resist the 4am hunger pangs!
Adjusting to a new time zone may make you hungry at odd hours. Resisting the 4 AM hunger pangs and hold out until you can make smarter choices at breakfast. You won’t regret the decision a few hours later when you wake up and don’t already feel guilty for eating cold leftovers earlier in the morning.
VACATION TIP #10: Stock the water!
It’s cheaper by the case!
If you trust the local tap water, refill your reusable BPA-free bottle consistently throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid the need to purchase sugary drinks. If tap has you worried or you don’t want to pack your own bottle, remember to pack a case of water. Bottled water is easy to grab and go, and certain destinations like Disney Resorts let you mail a case of water right to your room before you arrive!