Top 10 Tips to Stay Fit While on Vacation

By Jacklyn Johnson

Summer is officially here and you know what that means -- vacation time! A time to relax, kick back, take in the sun and let work slip from your mind for a few days.

While enjoying your vacation is top priority, it is important to keep your diet on track before you start sipping on your pina colada and ordering that double fudge brownie sundae. Whether your travels bring you to Europe or the Bahamas, here are some simple tips on how to stay fit while on vacation.

1. Drink lots of water -- Hydration is essential while traveling. Water fills you up and never lets you down.

2. Stay Central -- Location, Location, Location. Try to find a hotel with a central location so you can walk to all your destinations. eDiets expert nutritionist Pamela Ofstein says this is a “great way to get some exercise and activity in while on vacation. This will get your body moving and gives you the opportunity to really ‘see’ and really ‘take in’ your surroundings -- not just drive by! Skip the cab or car ride when checking out the sites and if you plan to go some place for a meal, try walking -- also gives you more time to talk and enjoy your friends and family.”

3. Moderation -- Vacation is the best time to indulge! But don’t overdo it. Try to have dessert every other night. Or why not split dessert? It cuts the calories in half! Pamela says “on vacation we tend to let our guard down a little. This should be a time of enjoyment and letting loose a little while still keeping your self on track. Wanting to splurge a little and go for something you normally don’t eat (because of watching your calorie intake) – choose your poison. I love dessert, so I often opt to skip or limit the bread to one small piece at dinner and enjoy a salad as an appetizer instead of appetizers high in calories and fat.”

4. Cut back -- Alcohol and caffeinated beverages can be extremely dehydrating, especially in hot weather climates. You don’t have to ban it, but don’t binge it either. Pamela suggests “2 cups a day or less. A good trick is to if you plan to have a cocktail or caffeinated beverage, have a cup of water for each one you consume; this will help keep you hydrated.”