Going on holiday doesn't have to mean giving up on your health goals. While travelling often involves indulgent meals and a variety of tempting foods, it’s possible to stay committed to your diet with a little planning and mindful choices. Here, we share some effective strategies to help you stick to your diet while enjoying your time away.

Plan ahead

Before you head off for your trip, it’s a good idea to spend some time planning your meals and snacks. Research restaurants and the local cuisine to identify healthier options in the area you’re staying, and if your accommodation comes with a kitchen, consider preparing some meals yourself.

It’s especially important to do lots of research if you have specific dietary requirements. For example, you’ll want to try to identify vegan-friendly options in the area ahead of time, to avoid the temptation to fill up on bread or chips if there’s nothing else that’s plant-based on the menu.

Choose sensible portion sizes

Enjoying local dishes is a big part of the holiday experience, but it's important to be mindful of portion sizes. Opting for smaller portions or sharing meals with your travel companions  can be a great way to taste a variety of foods without overindulging. Or, if the choices are limited, many restaurants offer half-sized dishes or appetisers that can be served as full meals on request.

Balance is key, so remember, depending on your individual needs and goals, that a restrictive diet isn’t necessarily a healthy one. Don’t be afraid to order a bigger meal on particularly active days, and opt to skip dessert rather than missing out on a healthy lunch or dinner.

Stay hydrated

Thirst can often be mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking. Carry a reusable water bottle and make it a habit to drink water throughout the day. Staying hydrated will not only help to manage your appetite, but it’ll also keep your energy levels up and support digestion.

Practise mindful eating

Dining mindfully can greatly aid in maintaining your diet. On holiday, it’s even more worthwhile to take the time to pay attention to the flavours, textures, and aromas of your food, and make an effort to eat more slowly than usual. This will help to both enhance your dining experience and encourage you to appreciate the quality of the meal, which in turn, will help you to avoid overeating.

Stick to routine as much as possible

Although your schedule is bound to be a stark contrast to what it is at home, try to maintain some aspects of your usual routine, such as eating at regular meal times and starting your day with a nutritious breakfast. Your body learns when to send hunger cues based on when you typically eat, so this can  prevent you from getting hungry at awkward times of the day, when you may be more inclined to indulge on unhealthy snacks for a quick fix.

Set realistic expectations

Above all else, understand that your holiday diet might not be perfect, and that’s okay. Set realistic goals that focus on balance and moderation, rather than perfection, and celebrate the small victories rather than striving for an unattainable standard.

By incorporating these strategies, you can maintain your diet without sacrificing the enjoyment and excitement of your holiday. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your experiences while staying aligned with your health goals, ensuring you return from your trip refreshed and on track.