10 TIPS TO EAT HEALTHY WHILE TRAVELING ON A BUDGET

Many people assume that cheap food is only available if you travel. You don’t need to sacrifice taste in exchange for a lower price. It’s possible to eat healthy and still save money.

Traveling can be a change of pace, and it can make it difficult to maintain healthy habits like eating right and exercising. There are some great ways that I’ve found to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. I hope they can be useful to others. You can have fun while abroad, but it shouldn’t be restrictive. You don’t have to spend a lot if you’re on a tight budget.

Below are my top tips for traveling healthy and on a tight budget.

Top tips for traveling healthy

1.Stay in accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen.

This is the most important tip. This is probably the most important tip.

The best housing options for this purpose include hostels and private properties, farms, and even non-governmental organizations. You can exchange a few hours of work for a bed and a kitchen. It’s called “work exchange,” and it’s a form of collaborative tourism which works well for long stays.

You don’t have to volunteer for housing. However, you can book properties or hostels through Airbnb.

I recommend communal spaces for saving money and experiencing a cultural interchange, especially during mealtime.

2.Local Markets

No matter where I am, one of my favourite things is to source local produce and get fresh, healthy and inexpensive produce.

The nearest grocery store is the best alternative if there are no markets or it is closed (more frequent). While it may not be as affordable or as fresh, it will be more cost-friendly than moving from one restaurant to another.

3.Pack snacks

Nuts, fruits, dried fruit and dark chocolate are all great options. These healthy snacks are easy to find in the grocery or market and you can take them with you on your adventure.

These will be a great help when you are feeling hungry. You are also less likely to pick up something unhealthy on the side of the road for convenience.

4.Reusable water bottle

A water bottle that is eco-friendly (along with a coffee cup), will make your life easier. You won’t need to buy water as often, and you’ll be reducing the number of plastic bottles you throw away.

It can be hard to travel, and staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re walking a lot or are in hotter, more humid environments. It is important to remember that alcohol is a part of the local experience. You will have a different experience drinking beer in Belgium and wine in Italy. So, be open to the possibility.

5.Don’t get too restrictive.

While I encourage a healthy lifestyle, it is important to be flexible. Experience the local cuisine is a big part of travel. Let’s face it, and this is not always the best for your health.

You can eat the croissants in France, Portugal, and Croatia, but you will never get to taste them from the source. It’s all about balancing everything in moderation, as they say.

You don’t have to label something as good or bad. Feeling guilty about eating something is more harmful than the actual food.

6.Local street food is better than fast food chains.

Go local if you’re going to eat fast food. Let’s face it, eating hummus and carrots every single day is not always possible. So if you’re going to eat fast food, avoid Mcdonald’s and Burger King. If you’re in Italy, get a fresh slice of street pizza or a delicious Gyros Street food is better than franchises as it’s both cheaper and more delicious.

7.Picnics in parks

Although I love eating out at local restaurants, it is not sustainable for budget travelers. If you have the opportunity to bring your own food/drinks, this is an excellent alternative. You will not only save money but also eat healthier and get Vitamin D from the sun. This is vital for your immune system.

This article is Connecting Nature and Travel

8.Protein!

It would be best if you chose a snack or meal that contains more protein. This, along with fiber from vegetables and fruits, will keep you satisfied for longer and prevent sugar cravings. This is particularly important if you are a plant-based person. A lack of protein can lead to fatigue, a decreased immune system, and other issues that could be detrimental while you’re on the road.

Make your plate stand out with colorful vegetables, protein, and complex carbs.

9.Use Tupperware to bring the meals you have made together.

This is a tip that I wish someone had given me when traveling. Tupperware can be a great investment as it is not only good for your wallet but also for the environment. It also means that you can stockpile so you can enjoy all the local delights!

10.Meal Deals – UK

Another tip for UK travelers: Meal Deals are a common feature in grocery stores. You can grab one drink, 1 main dish, and one snack for just 3 pounds (TESCO &Sainsbury) or 4 pounds (Coop). There are many options available, including smoothies and salads, as well as plant based ones.

Were these ideas interesting to you? Subscribe to the World packers Community to learn more and save your favorite volunteer jobs!

This position is in Germany and can be used to make plant-based meals. The top questions you should ask World packers.