By Jessica Sepel
@jshealth


Healthy living and traveling – these are a few of my favourite things. But healthy living while traveling can be quite challenging! It’s taken several years and even more miles to create a plan of action when I take trips, but now that I’ve got the hang of it, it’s second nature.

The trick is preparation. Pack smart, research your destination and stick to your everyday healthy habits as much as you can – allowing some wiggle room for local fun, of course!

As I pack for my upcoming trip to Los Angeles, I kept these ideas in mind. I hope they’ll be helpful when you prepare for your next trip!

Do your research. Look into fitness clubs and yoga studios in the area that offer free trials or inexpensive drop in passes. I love taking Soul Cycle classes when I’m in LA and NYC, so I check locations and schedules.

Prepare your own snacks. Plane/airport food is usually very high in sodium. This is OK in moderation, but save the splurge for a great restaurant when you arrive! Pack some healthy treats that are travel-friendly, like raw almonds, dates stuffed with seeds, sliced veggies, an apple, rice cakes with almond butter, and homemade granola bars or protein bites. I’ve already packed Loving Earth nuts and seeds to munch on! My Sugar-Free Protein Balls are a must!

Pack your supplements. I bring a B vitamin complex for energy, stamina and recovery (it also seems to help with jetlag), zinc to keep my immune system strong, and spirulina tablets  – they’re packed with amino acids, nutrients and antioxidants to stay healthy and full of energy during travel. I also bring a digestive enzyme and a good quality probiotic. It can be difficult to maintain good bacteria in the gut when traveling, so these support and aid digestion and help with travel bloat.

Stay hydrated. Hydration cannot be emphasized enough, especially when traveling by plane. This prevents water retention and other issues associated with dehydration when you land. Carry a glass water bottle to refill at the filters available at most airports, and bring herbal tea bags with you too. Ginger and peppermint tea aids digestion, and chamomile will soothe your system. Continue to drink your usual 2 liters of water per day once you arrive.

Get your ZZZ’s. Don’t let jet lag, flight connections or uncomfortable hotel beds get between you and your rest. Sleep is essential, especially when traveling, to keep your immunity and energy up. Aim for 8 hours whenever possible. My Program is full of tips to help you sleep better and longer