Tips for Healthy Holiday Travel

Source: CDC

It’s the holiday season again! If you are preparing for holiday travel by land or air, these tips can help you stay healthy while on the go.

In the car?

• Quench your thirst with water and no- or low-calorie drinks instead of sugary drinks. If you want flavor in your water, add slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, watermelon, or any fruit you like. Sparkling water is another no-calorie option. Bring along a reusable water bottle for refills.
• Pack healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts to eat instead of cookies, chips, or candy. These healthy snacks can help keep you satisfied. When you have healthy foods handy, you may be less likely to eat something unhealthy.
• Plan stops along your route to take brief physical activity breaks.

At a rest stop or convenience store?

• At a rest stop, take 10 minutes to walk, jog, or do a few jumping jacks. Any physical activity is better than none! Those 10 minutes count toward the recommended minutes of physical activity you need every week.
• Choose snacks such as fruit or nuts that best support healthy eating. You can also bring your own food to keep your body and your wallet happy.

At the airport?

• Walk to your gate, when possible, instead of taking a tram or shuttle. Some airports have signs that tell you how far it is to walk to your gate.
• Plan ahead to make breastfeeding comfortable. Bringing a sling or soft infant carrier with you may make nursing easier. You can carry breastmilk and an electric breast pump on planes.

For more information, please see:

• Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight
• Physical Activity for a Healthy Weight
• Travel Recommendations for Nursing Families