Going on vacation is all about relaxing and enjoying life, often with delicious food and drinks. While it’s great to treat yourself, it can be challenging to maintain a healthy diet and stay active, especially when you’re away from home.

That being said, weight gain on vacation is preventable with a bit of effort and creativity. Here are ten tips to help you avoid weight gain and stay healthy on your next getaway.

1. Plan Ahead for Healthier Meals

Before you head out on vacation, do some research on restaurants and grocery stores near where you’ll be staying. Look at menus online and find places that offer healthier options.

You can also book a hotel room with a kitchenette so that you can prepare your meals instead of eating out every day. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid high-calorie dishes like fried foods and creamy sauces.

2. Stay Hydrated

Keeping yourself hydrated is essential for good health, and it can also help prevent overeating. Drinking water before meals can help you feel full and reduce your appetite.

Carry a water bottle with you at all times, especially if you’re going to be outdoors in the sun. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and opt for unsweetened or low-calorie options like water, sparkling water, or herbal tea.

3. Avoid Skipping Meals

Skipping meals can lead to overeating later on, as your body becomes more hungry and craves high-calorie foods.

Even if you’re busy exploring the city or lounging on the beach, make sure you have a healthy breakfast to start your day and plan for regular meals throughout the day. If you’re on a long flight or road trip, bring healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or protein bars to keep you satisfied.

4. Choose Active Activities Over Sedentary Ones

While it’s tempting to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, it’s essential to get up and move around to burn calories. Look for activities that will get your heart rate up, like hiking, cycling, swimming, or dancing.

Walking tours are an excellent way to explore a new city while getting some exercise. If you’re traveling with friends or family, plan an activity that everyone can enjoy, like beach volleyball or frisbee.

5. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is full of empty calories, and excessive drinking can lead to weight gain. If you plan on drinking, do so in moderation and opt for lower-calorie drinks like wine or beer instead of sugary cocktails.

Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or a low-calorie non-alcoholic beverage to stay hydrated and prevent overindulging.

6. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough rest is crucial for your overall health and can also help prevent weight gain. Lack of sleep can lead to overeating and unhealthy food choices. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, even if you’re on vacation.

Limit your exposure to screens before bedtime to improve the quality of your sleep.

7. Pack Healthy Snacks

It can be challenging to find healthy snacks when you’re on the go, so pack some before leaving home. Bring fruits, vegetables, or whole-grain crackers for a quick and easy snack that will keep you satisfied until your next meal.

Nut butter packets, beef jerky, and trail mix are other healthy options that are easy to travel with.

8. Don’t Overindulge in Desserts

Desserts are the ultimate treat, but they’re often loaded with sugar and empty calories. While it’s okay to enjoy a dessert or two on your vacation, moderation is key.

Share a dessert with someone to cut down on calories, or opt for fruit or a small serving of sorbet instead. If you have a sweet tooth, try to find healthier dessert options like fresh fruit smoothies or acai bowls.

9. Stay Active on Travel Days

Travel days can be long and tiring, but that doesn’t mean you have to be sedentary. If you have a long layover or a delayed flight, take a walk around the airport or do some stretching exercises.

If you’re driving, make frequent stops to get out of the car and move around. Even if you can’t fit in a full workout, any movement is better than none.

10. Be Mindful and Listen to Your Body

Above all, be mindful of your body and how it feels. Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues, and stop eating when you’re satisfied, not when you’re overly full.

Practice self-care by taking breaks when you need to, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Remember that being healthy on vacation isn’t about being perfect but about making small, consistent efforts to take care of yourself.