Vacation is supposed to be a time to relax and rejuvenate and not make yourself crazy by calorie counting. Don’t be too hard on yourself (or your kids) if you don’t stick to your typical healthy eating plan. Just try to make the best food choices you can with these tips below and have a fabulous holiday with your family and friends!

1. Whether you are going on a plane or in a car the first secret to eating healthy is to plan

We all know that airplane food and fast food restaurants are not the healthiest options and cost you money, so pack along some healthy snacks to satisfy your hunger. Some great ideas: nuts or trail mix, apples, bananas, pre-cut veggies, low fat granola or protein bars, whole grain crackers, low fat cheese, hummus and sandwiches.

2. Resist the urge to splurge and make a better food choice at the Restaurant

It’s simple really! With the Gluten free and Paleo restricted diets these days, most Restaurants are used to modifying their menus. Ask if you can have Dijon mustard instead of mayonnaise, marina sauce instead of the creamy white one, more vegetables in lieu of the starch and request your dressing on the side. *Extra Tip: watch your portion size. You don’t have to finish your meal-stop when you are full and eat ONLY when you are hungry.

3. Eat breakfast

Still considered the most beneficial meal of the day for a reason. Eating a healthy breakfast jump starts your metabolism, gives you the energy you need for site seeing and stops you from over-eating later in the day. Stay away however from the bacon and pastries and choose egg white omelets, whole wheat toast, Greek yogurt and plenty of fresh fruit like anti-oxidant rich berries.

4. Allow yourself a small treat a day

How do you pass up on Gelato when in Italy (or anywhere for that matter?!) or strawberry crepes when in Paris? You don’t! Knowing that you will enjoy that sweet treat will hopefully keep you on track to make healthy food choices throughout the rest of your day. And you won’t feel deprived of not enjoying your vacation.

5. Limit your alcoholic beverages

Those hidden calories found in those happy hour bevies can add up quickly. For every drink of alcohol, have one non-alcoholic drink (preferably calorie-free, such as water). Consider opting for more diluted, mixed beverages in a tall glass, such as a white wine spritzer or a refreshing mimosa!