When on a road trip or traveling to a far destination, it can be easy to skip meals and resort to unhealthy fast food, the typically convenient option, as most rest stops are filled with McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendy’s. It can also be easy to fall the victim of sleep deprivation after driving for multiple hours at a time. If the proper steps are taken, like our suggestions below, it is possible to stay healthy during your trip.

Drink lots of water. 
Especially in the summer, staying hydrated is the key to stay healthy when on a road trip. But, even during other seasons, one should always have a water bottle on hand! Drinking water consistently helps avoid buying drinks that are high in carbohydrates and sugar. Water will help you stay awake, as well as help prevent skin breakouts.

© Adam Singer

Pack healthy snacks.
Instead of the usual potato chips and pretzels, try some granola bars, fruit and raw carrots! When you eat snacks with a lot of carbohydrates, you will end up getting hungrier faster, as you are filling up on empty calories. However, healthier snacks, such as the ones aforementioned, will help prevent hunger. It’s smart to bring snacks with you before you go on the road, as this saves time and money. This way, you’ll cut down on exiting the highway for rest stops.

© Joriel “Joz” Jimenez

Instead of your typical fast food, get a salad!
It may seem more appetizing to grab a cheeseburger or a slice of pizza when on the road. However, a chicken Caesar salad, or any type of salad for that matter, is a better option. If you make the effort to improve your lifestyle on vacation, you can create better habits for yourself on future road trips and in your everyday life. Making healthy choices will help improve your immune system and will inevitably help you stay healthy on vacation.

© Fenwench

Rotate who is driving every few hours.
According to UCLA Sleep Disorders Center, those who have been awake for over 15 hours are more likely to be involved in a car accident. In order to prevent a fatal car accident due to drowsy driving, it’s important to rotate who is driving every six hours or so. Although sleeping in a car is typically uncomfortable, those who are taking a break from driving should have a travel pillow on hand. Driving is tedious, so you should be well-rested before taking a long trip. Generally, it’s important to get enough rest so that you can enjoy your vacation otherwise!

© Aiko, Thomas & Juliette+Isaac

Create an exercise routine.
Not everyone is the type of person who likes to work out consistently. However, after sitting in the car for multiple hours at a time, it’s best to move around every once in awhile. While on the road, take the opportunity to see if your hotel as a gym that you can use for the day. If not, see if you can get a guest pass for a gym nearby! One can make exercising fun on vacation, it doesn’t necessarily have to be at a gym. Try taking a hike or going for a jog around your area. Creating a routine with specific days that you will exercise will make you more likely to actually do it.

© Brad Fortst