Traveling Trim

Traveling Trim

A took a recent trip to Miami lead me to reassess on-track traveling. Let me start by saying- it was a wonderful getaway, but started with a nuisance of unexpected turbulence before I ever stepped foot on the plane.

As protocol, I arrived to the airport 2 hours early to ensure plenty of time to go through baggage and security. Smooth sailing took me right to my gate with an hour to spare. It was then that I got the unpleasant news that my plane would be delayed by four hours (what a nightmare!). Deep breath in, slowly exhale, relax. I remained positive and thanked the Universe to have packed an iPad and magazines to keep me entertained.

I wasn't too far into my Cosmo Mag when my belly began to hum. Now, unlike the leisurely activities I had packed, I wasn't as prepared in the eating/nourishment department. I was really  surprised by my own lack of planning- but in my defense- I did pack an apple for the plane and had planned on eating dinner once I landed. The show tunes playing in my stomach sung otherwise and there was no way a measly apple was going to hold me over for the next 7 hours.

I decided to explore my food options around the airport and let me tell you- they stink! The majority of the offerings were sodium or sugar packed processed snacks, and fastfood meals. It was tricky and discouraging, but I did as my Cavewomen-Model Ancestors before me had done. I hunted and I gathered.

I was able to locate some plain greek yogurt, fresh fruit, cut up veggies and organic popcorn. These were all perfect snacking options, but also very expensive. I spent because I really had no other choice. Thirty-five bucks later all I can do is consider it a valuable lesson. Lucky for you, I'm sharing my new found wisdom with you for your travels.

Here it is: Prepare, prepare, prepare. If my flight would have been on time, my apple would have been fine- but now we know, plan for the unplanned (and in this case, you can). 

Take the ten minutes and pack a snack bag. Bring things that are easily transportable:

Carrot sticks, Celery Sticks, Apple, Banana, String Cheese, Unsalted nuts, Greek Yogurt, Packet of dry oats (you can get hot water at the airport), Tuna/Salmon Cups, Protein Bar (Quest is my fav).

Have a few of the above in your carry-on and in the case that you're delayed, you can make a few mini meals to hold you over until you get to your destination. Make sure to include protein and complex carbs. Start nibbling on your perishable snack first, like cheese or yogurt. In a few hours, open your Tuna/Salmon or protein bar.

I also suggest eating before you go to the airport. Don't go there famished, you may end up in a bag or two of Doritos and a Snickers bar if you do. Try and drink a glass (8 oz) of water an hour before and then every hour during flight to avoid major water retention. If you're on a long flight that is going to provide a meal, bring your own (nonperishable) like an almondbutter and jelly sandwich. Airplane food is packed with sodium and who wants to spend the first day of their trip bloated? Especially if you will be sporting swimwear- trust me- avoid the airplane food.

Drinks are usually complimentary and unlimited, so try and get at least two. I like a hot tea and a cold seltzer (in addition to an overpriced bottle of airport terminal water). I'd say avoid alcohol and juice and soft drinks on the plane. You're not doing much movement to burn the extra calories and sugar during travel time and your body will benefit from extra hydration of H2O anyhow. If you MUST have a drink to take the edge off, keep it clean and limited. One vodka/club soda should do the trick.

I hope these tips help you in your future travels, please let me know if you have any suggestions on your ends.. Bon voyage, Foxes xo