Tips for Travel & Foods to Pack on Your Next Summer Adventure.

Hi Friend,

An estimated 80% of Americans take a summer vacation. With a statistic like that, I would guess that a large number of people reading this email have plans in the upcoming months to take off on a summer adventure. Along with the schedule changes that vacations bring, food availability typically also varies and sometimes you might find yourself not giving much though to your food intake at all while on the road.

If you're truly living a lifestyle of health, your vacations shouldn't look starkly different from your day to day life when it comes to food intake and movement. Of course there might be a few extra desserts or maybe not quite as many planned workouts, but with food freedom, all foods fit in moderation so you're not going to be "derailed" from some time off. You love the way eating healthy and moving your body makes you feel so you'll continue the healthy habits you can while away from home, and get back to your typical rhythms once you're back in town.

Below I've listed some tips and foods to take with you on your next summer adventure that will keep your energy up and your belly full.

Tip #1: Pack a cooler.

Whenever you can, I recommend taking a cooler with you on a road trip. If you're traveling by air, bring a small lunch box. It's worth it and will save you a lot of money and bypass extra stops along the way. It will also ensure you have food that you like available to you when you might not have total of control of food options.

Tip #2: Pack your Food in Layers.

Obviously you can't pack your whole refrigerator (though I have come close) while on a trip. But I do like to pack a few perishable items to maximize whole food consumption while on the go. Eat the most perishable foods first and then move on to the shelf stable items last.

Tip #3: Hit Up Local Grocery Stores.

Most people eat out more than normal while on vacation, but going to a local grocery store once you've landed at your destination can save you a lot of money and help your digestion stay regular. Choose a variety of nutrient dense foods that are high in fiber to have on hand at your Air BnB or hotel.

Tip #4: Examine Airport Kiosks.

The past several trips I've taken I have noticed the mini supermarkets in airports are starting to carry more fresh snack options. Most will have veggie trays, cheese sticks, hard boiled eggs, fruit, nut packs etc. Check one out to see what you can find next time you're in an airport!

Below I've listed some good food ideas to pack on your next road trip. If flying is in your future, choose a couple to throw in a carry-on.

Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef. Jerky and beef sticks can be a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to quality. I know what you're thinking- yes jerky is high in salt. However, jerky is also high protein so it will help to keep you full. All foods in moderation:)

Cut up veggies. This would be an example of the top layer of foods you want to eat first since they won't keep long. Chopped veggies are one of the best ways to add texture to your snacks with their crunchy profile. They also have a high water content so they will help keep you hydrated during the summer heat.

Unsalted nuts. Mixed Nuts are one of the easiest foods to pack and one of the most versatile options. You can eat them plain, add in some roasted chickpeas or edamame, dried fruit or chocolate chips for a delicious trail mix. Another great option is pairing a handful of nuts with a piece of fruit.

Fresh fruit. Speaking of fruit...apples or other fresh fruit are great foods to pack for travel. I often choose apples because you don't have to cut them and they aren't as easily smooshed as pears or bananas in a lunch box. Oranges are great but you do need to dispose of the peel. Fruit will give you some fiber to help manage blood sugar and it can also help keep you regulated if you ever noticed your bowel movement patterns change with travel!

RN Garcia Sweet Potato Crackers. Crackers don't have to be off limits on trips if you're trying to be health conscious. These have the perfect combo of sweetness and saltiness. You can usually find them at Costco or other grocery stores. Pair them with protein and enjoy in moderation!

Jackson's Sweet Potato Chips. These are basically the crackers above in chip form, without the seeds. If you have a health condition like diverticulitis that limits your ability to tolerate nuts or seeds, these are for you! They are some of the best tasting chips I've had.

Hard Boiled Eggs. These typically come with me while traveling. With about the same amount of fat as protein, they will help keep you full. Hard boiled eggs don't keep well so they are one of the items I suggest consuming first. Peel them before you leave for your trip or grab some pre-boiled ones on the go so you don't have to dispose of the shell. If you have room for it, they fit great in a small mason jar and will stay protected.

That's a wrap on my tips and favorite foods for travel. No matter where your summer takes you, I hope the memories you make stick with you for many years to come and that you are able to recharge with friends and family.