How to Maintain Your Weight Loss Routine While Traveling for the Holidays

The holidays are almost here, and that means festive fun, delicious food, and, of course, travel. Whether flying across the country or taking a road trip to see family, traveling during the holidays can throw a wrench into your weight loss routine. 

But guess what? You can stay on track with your weight loss goals while traveling and enjoy the season to the fullest. Here’s how:

Pack Your Healthy Habits

Just because you’ve changed locations doesn’t mean you have to leave your healthy habits behind.

• Don’t Forget Your Medication: If you’re taking a GLP-1 medication, pack enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days just in case. And keep it with you, especially if you are flying to avoid any issues with lost luggage. The medication should also be kept refrigerated—Amazon has a variety of cases to help keep your GLP-1s cool while traveling.
• Bring Your Own Snacks: Airports and rest stops aren’t known for the healthiest food options. Pack plenty of nutritious snacks like nuts, seeds, fruit, and protein bars to avoid the impulse to walk down the gas station candy aisle or airport shop.
• Pack Your Workout Gear: Even if you can’t make it to the gym, pack your workout clothes and comfortable shoes. A brisk walk, a quick hotel room workout with resistance bands, or even just some stretching can help you stay active.

Navigate Holiday Feasts Strategically

Holiday gatherings often revolve around food, and it’s easy to overindulge when managing your weight. Here’s how to avoid that:

• Survey the Scene: Before you fill your plate, assess your options. Choose the healthier dishes that appeal to you most and fill your plate with those first.
• Prioritize Protein and Veggies: This will help you feel full and satisfied while managing your calorie intake.
• Portion Control: Don’t deprive yourself, but be mindful of your portions. Use smaller plates, and fill up on vegetables and lean protein first.
• Treat Yourself (In Moderation): Enjoying a small portion of your favorite holiday treat is okay. Just be sure to have only a few bites and balance it with healthier options.

Stay Active on the Go

Maintaining your activity level while traveling can be challenging but crucial for weight management.

• Incorporate Movement Into Your Day: Go for walks, explore the city you are staying in on foot, or take advantage of the hotel gym.
• Get Creative with Exercise: No gym? No problem! Pack resistance bands or use bodyweight exercises to get a workout in your hotel room.
• Combine Fun and Fitness: Turn holiday activities into a chance to move your body. You can go ice skating, build a snowman, or have a snowball fight with the kids to stay active.

Don’t Let Setbacks Derail You

It’s okay if you slip up occasionally. The key is not letting a single indulgence become a full-blown derailment.

• Get Back on Track: If you overeat at one meal, don’t beat yourself up about it. Return to your healthy routine at the next meal.
• Focus on the Big Picture: Remember that weight loss is a journey, not a destination. A few days of travel won’t undo your progress as long as you get back on track afterward.

Remember Your “Why”

It’s easy to lose sight of your goals when tempting treats and festive cheer surround you. Reminding yourself why you are on this journey can help you get back on track. 

• Stay Connected to Your Motivation: Remind yourself why you started your weight loss journey in the first place. Visualize your goals and the benefits of achieving them.
• Practice Gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of the holidays, such as spending time with loved ones and creating memories.

Final Thoughts

Traveling during the holidays doesn’t have to mean derailing your weight loss journey. By following these tips, you can enjoy the festivities while staying on track with your health goals. Remember, the key is to be prepared, mindful, and kind to yourself.