For many people, a vacation is the time when they forget about structure and responsibility and just enjoy life. For others, it means packing in as many activities and experiences as possible. Unfortunately, it’s often a time when people throw caution to the wind and completely ignore their health and sometimes even put themselves at risk. While it’s fine to take time off to enjoy yourself, it’s never a good idea to completely ignore your health. If you’re planning on taking some time off this summer, here are a few tips for staying healthy while on vacation:

• DON’T OVERPACK: Avoid overstuffing your bags as this can lead to back, shoulder and other pain. Bringing large, heavy bags with you is a common travel mistake. Not only will you likely have to pay more to check larger bags when you’re flying, but large luggage is often difficult to carry and can cause back or shoulder pain. When you’re getting ready for your vacation, think about what you actually need and avoiding weighing yourself down by packing too much.
• COOK FOR YOURSELF: One of the most enjoyable parts of a vacation is often the meals. However, while the foods you eat on vacation are often delicious, they can also be bad for your heath. This is why it’s important to make a plan. No one is saying that you can’t eat out at some restaurants while you’re on vacation, but it’s often healthier to avoid doing so at every meal. Instead, make a plan for where and what you’re going to eat and stick to it. Include a few restaurants but also take the time to find a grocery store if possible. This makes it possible to make some of your meals yourself, which is often healthier. Also, don’t forget to pack snacks with you when you’re travelling. Whether it’s packing some mixed nuts to eat while you’re driving so you don’t need to stop for fast food or putting an apple and a banana in your bag when you’re out seeing the sights, packing your own snacks is the key to staying healthy on vacation.
• BE MINDFUL WHEN DINING OUT: When you do eat at restaurants, be sure to ask questions about the ingredients of the food. This is especially helpful if you have a food allergy or a food intolerance. Don’t assume that certain foods will be prepared the same way as they are at home, even if the meals look and sound similar. Different regions, different countries and different restaurants will all prepare food differently. Taking the time to ask a few questions could really pay off for you in the long run.
• DON’T DRINK TOO MUCH: Many alcoholic drinks contain far more calories than you’d expect. Having a few beers or mixed drinks every day on your vacation can really add up in the calorie department which can lead to weight gain. Keep this in mind when you’re out enjoying yourself and indulge responsibly.
• WALK WHEN YOU CAN: Not only is walking healthier than driving or taking a cab, it’s also more affordable and it lets you see more of the local sights. Try to walk whenever possible on your vacation. Doing so can help you burn off the extra calories you may have eaten at dinner.
• STAY HDRATED: Dehydration is often a big problem for travellers. Be sure to bring a bottle of water with you and refill it frequently throughout the day. This will help keep you from becoming dehydrated and drastically reduce your risk of a condition like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which are common on hot days.

If you’ve overindulged on your vacation and need help getting back in shape? Don’t hesitate to give us a call. Remember, at Physiomed…Healthier Starts Here.