6 Ways to Not Gain Weight on Your Vacation

by Lexi Petronis

Going on a summer trip is an obvious do, but who likes to come back feeling bloated and exhausted from the change in routine, the rich vacation foods, and the lack of exercise? Nobody!

Cheryl Forberg, R.D., is the in-house nutritionist for Omni Hotels & Resorts, a James Beard Award-winning chef, and the former nutritionist for The Biggest Loser. So when she sent over some tips for staying fit while you're at the beach or in the mountains or wherever your next journey might happen to be, let's just say I took some notes.

1: Skip the airport food. Yes, it's easy to grab some pizza or one of those giganto soft pretzels when you're sprinting to make your flight, but airports don't always have the healthiest options around. Cheryl says: "Make a sandwich on whole-grain bread with lots of veggies and use avocado instead of mayo for a creamy, nonspoiling spread that's lower in calories. Salads with dressings that can survive at room temperature are another great filling choice, and, for snacks, pack low-fat string cheese, trail mix with soy nuts, and grass-fed beef jerky."

See more:10 Hot Date-Night Outfits (According to Guys)

2: Forgot your running shoes? Ask the hotel! "Many hotels rent fitness shoes and clothes for a minimal fee--just call ahead to find out what it offers," Cheryl says. "And also find out if you'll have a mini fridge available in your room. You can stock it with fresh fruit and veggies, so you'll have healthy options at hand." She also points out that the concierge at the hotel can tell you about fun walks or hikes in the area.

3: Plan out your meals ahead of time. Go online and research restaurants in the city you'll be visiting. Pick out a few that are sure to have healthy dishes available that make use of the fresh local foods. "Also take your time perusing the in-room dining menu at your hotel. Many menus have healthier options that are denoted by icons," Cheryl says.

4: Apps, apps, apps! "Use city apps to help you locate healthy eating and supermarkets within walking distance," Cheryl says. "Find mountains of local produce by downloading one of the many farmers'-market finder apps for your phone. There are also a ton of free apps that can help you track how many calories you're eating and there are just as many that help track exercise."

See more:15 Hair-Color Makeover Ideas to Try in 2013

5. Walk. Part of the joy in traveling is the exploration--and you'll get to see a lot when you're using your own to feet to do it. "You're likely to burn half the calories you take in just by walking around a major metropolitan area or rural trail," Cheryl says.

6: Remember to indulge. Of course! Have an indulgent meal or two--make sure one is toward the end of your trip--and simply balance those out with with healthier choices like grilled chicken and vegetables throughout the rest of the trip.

Do you keep on a healthy track during your vacations, or do you find yourself taking a vacation from healthy tracks?

More from Glamour:
62 Diamond Engagement Rings Under $5,000
The Best Summer Nail Polish Shades for Your Skin Tone
35 Truths About Marriage--From a Guy's Point of View
10 Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Should Own