You have worked hard to take off the pounds so you will look fantastic in Cancun or Aruba, but once you start your vacation there are so many temptations that it is easy to gain weight again. Below are a few tips for healthy eating en route and while you are enjoying your dream vacation.

At the Airport and on Your Flight:

First, it is always a good idea to eat a good nutritious meal before heading to the airport. That way, you will not be tempted by junk food. During layovers, look for healthy snacks and food like salads, fruit cups, or baked chicken. You can burn off some calories at the airport by taking the stairs and carrying your baggage, instead of taking escalators and wheeling your bags. For the flight, pack light snacks like dried fruit or nuts instead of buying fattening food on long flights.

Choosing a Hotel

If you are staying in a big city, most major metropolitan areas have neighborhoods that are artsy or more bohemian. These are the most likely places to find organic food stores and vegetarian restaurants. Looking for a hotel in one of these districts and you will probably enjoy more proximity to cultural events as well. Often times finding the right hotel for your healthy lifestyle can be difficult. It is important to ensure before hand that the one you choose offers the appropriate amenities and services to cater to your lifestyle. I have found that a little due diligence pays off in that regard. I took a trip out west not to long ago and found a great site that listed reviews for hotels in Las Vegas varying from the different amenities offered, even to the different restaurants in the area. As you can imagine this made it easier than ever to plan out my week to ensure that I was eating both nutritiously and deliciously!

At Your Hotel

Try to avoid alcoholic beverages at the hotel. They are loaded with calories. When you get to your destination, look for a health food store and stock up on healthy alternatives to the hotel food. You can make instant soups and oatmeal easily with hot water from a coffeemaker. If you order room service, you can ask for low-fat dressing and diet soda, for example, and most hotels will try to accommodate your wishes. For longer stays, traveling with a small crockpot can be a great way to eat healthier and less expensive meals while on vacation. You can make meals such as chicken, rice and steamed vegetables with ease. If the hotel offers a continental breakfast, you can eat as much fruit as you want. Low-fat yogurt is another good choice.

Finding a Healthy Restaurant

First, try to avoid buffets and “all you can eat” places. Look for a vegetarian restaurant or choose a restaurant with a varied menu. There will be a better chance to find a healthy option. Seafood restaurants and salad bars tend to have healthy options. Checking a restaurant’s menu online prior to leaving your room is a good idea.

When eating out it is often difficult to find healthy alternatives on the menu. Being aware of certain menu watchwords can make a major difference if you want to eat healthy food. Words that indicate healthy food include: baked, boiled, broiled, fat-free, fresh, grilled, high fiber, light, marinated, multi-grain, roasted, steamed, stir fried, vegetarian, vinaigrette, and whole wheat. Beware of menu items that contain the following words: basted, battered, bottomless, breaded, buttered, cheese, country-style, covered, creamy, crunchy, fried, loaded, platter, smothered, stuffed, and sinful.

Do you have addition tips to avoid weight gain while traveling? Please share in the comments below.