How many times have you gone on vacation and come back with a few extra pounds? Before getting into a fitness routine and learning more about nutrition, I sure did. It took so much extra work to burn off the extra weight too! But here are a few tips to make it easier on yourself to stay healthy and on track during your travels!

Find Local Healthy Restaurants

Just like in your everyday fitness routine, it's best to plan ahead if you want to stay on track. Before heading on vacation, look up a list of healthy options in the areas you're going to be visiting. And even better, look up the menu before heading there so you know your options! If you haven't planned that far ahead, you can also use Yelp or Foursquare to find healthy restaurants around you! I'm not saying you shouldn't indulge once in awhile, but you can work in some delicious and healthy meals while on vacation. Remember: everything in moderation.

Opt to Walk

This is easier in big cities such as NYC (I actually lose weight every time I go to NYC even though I eat everyyyything). Walking is also the best way to see the sights of a city and pass by shops that you wouldn't have found otherwise! It's great for adventure and for your health. As a photographer, I've seen so many photo opportunities I wouldn't have had if I had taken a Lyft or driven the rental car. If you're not in a pedestrian-friendly city (like my hometown Dallas), you can still walk around local neighborhoods and shops once you've arrived at your destination. Traveling is about exploring, right?

Make Time for a Workout

Chances are, you're staying in a hotel with a gym! Be sure to make use of it! You'll have to be disciplined and set aside time to work out, but it will be worth it. I know Airbnb's are very popular now too, and there are may not be a gym where you're staying, but guess what workouts you can do at home... Bikin Body Guide! I have screenshots of a few workouts on my phone so that I can pull them out for a quick 28-minute exercise. If you want to get fancy, you can also download the app! Another idea is making use of outdoor parks and trails. In cities I've traveled to, I've never failed to see locals working out in the early mornings around the neighborhood. So why not live like a local and join them?

Stay Hydrated

This is just a health tip in general, but I know I'm guilty of forgetting to stay as hydrated as usual when I travel. Planes can really dehydrate you, so be sure to have a bottle of water during the flight. Also have bottles of water in your bag/backpack/purse while you're out and about! I've gone too many hours without drinking when I don't have a bottle of water and I'm walking around town. 

Hopefully these tips will help you stay healthy while traveling! Don't let vacation time be an excuse to fall off track!