Long journeys require a healthy body.
Frequent travel? That takes real stamina.
And if you’re dreaming of travelling well into your 50s, 60s, or beyond, fitness has to be part of the plan.
In my late 20s, I was often out hiking mountains near the city. Then I got married and started travelling both as a slow traveller and an avid explorer. Over the years, through both styles of travel, I’ve picked up a few habits that help me stay healthy on the go. Here are 5 simple ways I use to keep fit while travelling, I hope they help you too.
Embrace the old-school way of travelling
Carry home-cooked food wherever I can, just like our parents used to. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just something simple and nourishing, planned and prepared with care. This one’s from my Manali adventures – pulao with beans, peanuts, peas, and lots of love, packed before a short weekend hike. There’s something special about enjoying home-cooked meals while travelling.
Buy Fresh Fruits And Salads
One of the easiest ways to stay healthy while travelling is to include fresh fruits and salads in your daily routine. They’re widely available at most destinations, especially in local markets and even at highway stops. Fruits not only keep you full but also hydrate your body and provide essential nutrients.
In this picture, we’re stocking up on fresh fruits in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Healthy Snacking
I remember how my mum would pack roasted chickpeas, puffed rice, and popcorn the night before our road trips. That simple habit stayed with me. For a recent week-long journey, I carried roasted peanuts and jaggery and didn’t crave junk food even once!
Here are a few easy snack options to carry: Roasted peanuts, jaggery chunks, roasted chickpeas (chana), fox nuts (makhana), puffed rice (murmura), and a mix of dry fruits. They’re light, nutritious, and perfect for curbing those unexpected hunger pangs on the road.
Hydrate Mindfully
Travel often throws our routine off, especially our hydration. Carry a reusable water bottle. If you’re in a hot and humid place like Goa, Hampi, or Pondicherry, increase your intake of coconut water or lemon water.
Go for simple, local meals wherever possible
You know how we all get tempted by those Instagram-worthy cafes and fancy restaurants while travelling? I totally get it, they’re fun and aesthetic! But here’s something I’ve learned along the way, being just a little mindful about what you’re putting into your body can make a huge difference.
I’m not saying skip the fancy places completely. Enjoy them, for sure! But try balancing it out with simple, local meals. Something like a plate of dal chawal. It’s comforting, easy on your stomach, and kind to your wallet too. Sometimes, it’s these simple meals that leave you feeling the most satisfied.
Yoga
Yoga doesn’t require fancy equipment and can be done in the smallest of spaces, whether it’s your hotel room, a quiet garden corner, or even a peaceful airport lounge. Just 10–15 minutes can make a big difference. Some simple travel friendly asanas to get you started.
- Surya namaskar
- Tadasana – Stand tall, feet together, arms at your sides. Inhale, raise your arms overhead, stretch upward, and hold.
- Vrikshasana – Stand on one leg, place the other foot on your inner thigh or calf (avoid the knee), and join palms in front of your chest or overhead.
- Marjaryasana asana – Get on all fours. Inhale and arch your back (cow), exhale and round your spine (cat).
- Balasana – Kneel down, sit back on your heels, stretch your arms forward, and rest your forehead on the floor.
- Paschimottan asana – Sit with legs extended. Inhale, raise arms, exhale, and bend forward from the hips to touch your feet or shins.
Morning Walk
There’s a unique kind of joy in chasing the sunrise at a new destination. Watching a city slowly wake up in the soft morning light feels magical and peaceful.
When you travel, try ending your day a little early and begin your adventures with the rising sun. The air is fresh, the surroundings are calm, the crowds are fewer — it’s a treat for both your health and your mindset.
Whether it’s a beach, a mountain trail, or a quiet street, soaking in the first light of the day truly elevates travel experience.
A quiet morning walk… and guess who we bumped into? The Prince of Turtuk himself!
Make space for a slow day during your trip
No plans, no rush. Just unwind, explore at your own pace, sip something warm, or take a nap. Travel isn’t just about ticking places off a list. It’s about soaking in the moment.
A relaxing evening at Sundowner in Palolem, doing nothing but sitting and taking it all in.
I hope you found these travel tips useful! I’d love to know some of your go-to habits or hacks when you travel. Share them with me. I’d definitely love to give them a try!
CurlyGirlyTravely 