5 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling

You've finally made it. Months of saving your vacation days, picking out the right swimwear and meticulously planning your trip have finally paid off. You're almost there.

But as excited as you are to embark on a new adventure, a small voice in the back of your head is yakking on about all the calories you're about to eat, the risks and temptations of your destination city, and how hard that first workout will be when you return.

Fear not. Though your vacation should be a time to let loose, you don't have to choose between being healthy and having fun. In fact, here are five simple ways to stay healthy that can actually help you get more out of your vacation.

1. Drinking Water

Drinking water is a good idea for a slew of reasons, says WebMD, but it's especially important during travel. WebMD credits water as a great way to combat jet lag and help you adjust to your new environment, keeping your body nourished and energized so you don't lose a beat.

Try to keep a bottle of water with you at all times- especially during the first few days of your journey. If indulging in alcohol, pace each drink with a glass of water to stay hydrated.

EveryDay Health offers great tips to ensure the water you drink is clean and safe for consumption, such as opting for bottled water and abstaining from ice in your drinks if the water sources at your destination are questionable.

Check out these other great tips for preventing and minimizing jet lag!

2. Scheduling You Time

Remember, this is your vacation, so don't feel like you have to pack every day with back-to-back activities if you'd rather just chill.

Scheduling two to three hours each day for a little rest will help your body adjust to the stresses of travel, and give you some quiet time to enjoy your surroundings before evening plans begin.

Jillian Michaels suggests you use this time to hit your hotel's gym, but for the more adventurous among you, go on a jog around town to see more of your destination… and feel a little less guilty about that extra dessert you had the night before.

3. Walking Everywhere

Not only is walking WebMD's “secret weapon" to stay active during vacations, but it also allows you take in the sights and sounds of your destination better than a taxi or rental car ever could (and it saves you a little money, too).

If walking everywhere isn't an option, research a nearby nature trail or hiking ground and make it a part of your itinerary.

Vacations don't have to be all massages and margaritas by the pool (though both are wonderful perks); they can include time for more active fun, too.

4. Planning Your Meals

Doesn't it always seem that, no matter where you vacation, the food always looks more appetizing?

Sure, you didn't expect the freshly baked croissants near your Parisian Airbnb to smell so delicious, but now that you're here, how can you refuse?

Shape.com notes that one great way to stave off the urge to overindulge is to do the work ahead of time and plan your meals before you arrive.

Pick a handful of restaurants throughout your stay to really look forward to, and you'll have an easier time saying no to unnecessary calories throughout the day.

5. Anticipating Common Risks

Frequent traveler Nomadic Matt reminds you to counter common risks like sunburns and mosquito bites by packing things like sunscreen and bug repellent, and to wash your hands consistently.

He also cautions against food contamination, a leading cause of gastrointestinal problems for travelers. Protect yourself by ensuring any food you eat is “fresh, cooked thoroughly, and served piping hot" whenever practical, he advises.

“I love street food for this very reason, as you can see how clean the cooking environment is, and the food is often prepared right in front of you," he adds.

Also, make sure you're up-to-date on vaccination requirements, carry adequate medication, and do a little digging ahead of time to uncover safety issues at your destination.

Of course, sometimes being health-conscious isn't enough to avoid accidents, illness, or injury. That's where travel medical insurance comes in.

We know you have a lot of research to do on poolside margaritas, so we've broken down key points on travel medical insurance for you:

• Travel Medical Insurance Basics
• Atlas Travel: What It Covers, What It Doesn't

Do yourself a favor a pack some peace of mind by ensuring you're protected against things healthy habits won't cover.