Viewer Mail. Travel & The Art of Goal Achievement.

by

Hey MizFit. Im kind of in a panic and I think you would be the perfect person to ask since you just got back from that trip to chicago. What on earth do you do for food when traveling? what did you do in chicago??? how can I plan for succes as Im so close to goal but I know Ill gain at least ten pounds on this trip. THANKS!!!

Once upon a time, when Miz & Ren Man took kayaking lessons, MizFit had an instructor whose helmet was stickered with the words DONT PANIC.

While in that exact situation it annoyed the crap out of her she is about to reiterate the same words here much, perhaps, to yer irritatednessment.

So, first I wanna say: DONT PANIC. Seriously. There is absolutely no need.

Let’s start with me. Then focus on you. And THEN invite the entire Bumbling band to jump into the fray.

Chicago was, in essence, a business trip.

We’ve already addressed that I had a fantiztastic time there, but by working trip I mean that it wasnt a vacation.

Why do I bother pointing that out?

For me that’s pretty much the barometer of whether I end up with a string of treat days or not.

Traveling to Italy with the Ren Man as a second honeymoon? You can be damn sure my intuitive eating is getting FULL REIGN. Especially the treatuitive part.

Girls weekend at the beach with nary a Tornado in sight? Why YES. I DO think I’ll have that third glass of wine thankyouverymuch.

You get the picture.

That’s the first question I toss back at you. What kind of trip are you taking? And, if it is a vacation, are you like Miz & see that as time to treat yourself OR do you still wish to (food intake-wise) view it as all business?

Only you can answer that question.

Back to Chicago & what I ate. The short answer? I ate as I do when I’m at home.

In my opinion, and especially when surrounded with the amazing company which was all the other bloggers & the Quaker peeps, eating out is about ENJOYING THE COMPANY AND HAVING SOMEONE ELSE DO ALL THE WORK FOR YOU.

let me repeat that: the experience is a TREAT, even if you eat the same things you might eat at home (always easy to order grilled fish/chicken/plain pasta/steamed veggies etc.), due to the fact you get to sit on your bottom while someone else prepares & cleans up after you!

So that’s what I did in Chicago except for the mindblowing last dinner which isnt important right now.

Intuitively.

Had I opened a menu & something ENTIRELY not ‘clean’ caught my eye *that’s* what I’d have ordered.

I think, for me, my intuitive habits are now food as fuel (& good gosh I needed fuel as I am NOT used to staying up so late).

When I’m in work-mode I crave foods that will help to propel me forward both mental clarity-wise & energy-wise.

All that too longwindedly said, I set myself up for success by bringing a few high protein snacks along with me on the trip.

I knew from experience that carbs are easily found (oatmeal, bagels, fruit etc) & that I can struggle to find enough (easy) protein on the road.

I slipped a few envelopes of no-drain tuna, some cannisters of beef jerky, and YES some protein powder in my carry on ‘just in case.’

Now you. Most importantly I want you to STOP and focus on this:

I know Ill gain at least ten pounds on this trip .

YEP. You definitely will (cue collective gasp).

You *definitely* will if you go into the trip with that mindset. You’ll ATTRACT those ten pounds.

It’s all about the way you are thinking.

What I hear you saying in your email is (she types, yanking out her counseling degree which is rapidly gathering dust): you wanna eat on your trip as I did in Chicago.

You want to eat the way you do at home so, upon your return, you’ll be even closer to your goal.

Set yourself up for success (bring snacks along?) & view all eating out occasions through the lens of the company & the fact you are being waited on being the treat not the food.

Follow those two simple points and fun memories, NOT ten extra pounds, will be what you bring home with you.

Our next email is from a Bumbling Band member whom you all helped back in JULY & who found success through your tips & insights.

I just wanted to write back to say you were soOoOoo right… (feels good to be right huh?! 🙂 )
When I wrote (back in July) everyone said I was overexercising and I should be doing less and whatnot… I didn’t really want to do less since I was a huge fan of the wobbly-legs that the 2-hour workout gave me… but, I got a different job and now I can ONLY go for 1 hour 4-6 times a week (like some suggested) and I’m doing SOOO much better… of course it takes time, specially since I didn’t really have much to lose… but I’ve lost about 10lbs or maybe even a bit more… so yay!

How cool is that?!

Both the success AND the fact that she took the time to update us.

This last email is also to you and is from Marc of the Lebert Equalizer:

Hey Miz! I just re-read some of the comments again from the post you did. You have such a great following and thanks once again for introducing them to the Equalizer and THANKS TO THEM for watching the video you did and commenting!!
I hope the winner gets hours of great use from the Equalizer—– but I would like to give your loyal readers a discount on the Equalizers so they too can get lots of vertical rows to sculpt the back and biceps (not so much the hurdles- ha!).
Here’s a special MizFit code they can use on our order form; Coupon code is 0811MF for $10 off. It is good until the end of this month!
All the best you guys!!!

Whew.

There you have it: a thank you. a thank you. and a what would the bumbling band do query.

When you travel does your food intake differ if it is for work or for pleasure?

Does it depend on the destination (come on foodies! chime in & help me out here)?

What would *you* tell our emailer to do in order to set herself up for success?

Please to hit us all up in the comments…

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Comments

  1. OH YEAH! i’m awake when you’re posting. this is awesome.

    except my travel advice is all for planes:
    when i travel (which is often) it’s usually to see friends or family but also sometimes for work/school. to eat on a plane, because they have stopped giving you food, i usually take granola bars, little cheeses, nuts, or something else that is a) filling, b) not something i will readily eat a lot of, and c) vaguely comforting. (usually these are all components of the same food item. haha.) and then i throw in something frivolous (usually a moderate amount of chocolate) because being away from home (if that’s where i’m going) requires comfort foods at times and i might as well bring them myself if i’m going to eat them anyway. so, last time i traveled, i took a couple bags of cashews, a protein bar, and some quaker oat bite things. i’ve also taken berries. don’t take anything liquidy however. a sandwich (or real food) would work if you’re going a short distance and don’t have to worry about your food going bad.

    but anyway, yeah. that’s just for the plane ride itself! haha.

  2. I travel a lot for my research work for my PhD. A lot. So no matter how much I would like to, I cannot treat all my trips as holidays with regards to food intake. My main problem however is with portions. I am a small woman and have the appetite that goes with it. Restaurant portions are always huge to me. To add to the situation, I was raised in a finish-your-plate household and I have been a cash-strapped student for so long that leaving food on a plate, in particular a plate that I paid for (even though, technically, it comes out of a travel allowance so it is not really my money), is very difficult.

    Add to that the fact that I work in a field with is dominated by men, and you get an endless stream of awkward and uncomprehending looks in restaurants and cafeterias across the world when I put down my cutlery with the plate still half-full. That is, until the guys start to fight over who gets the rest of the pork chops 🙂

  3. I try to eat the same as if I was at home, but depending on where I am, sometimes it can be difficult. So I usually just make it a rule to go as low-carb as possible and that works for me.

    And yes, those portion sizes can be a problem. At one place we go to, they have a wonderful veggie wrap on a low carb tortilla but they serve it with homemade potato chips. What? So I ask them to leave them off the plate and they look at me as if I have two heads. But I know if those dang chips are ON THE PLATE, I am going to eat them.

  4. Good question! And good advice, too.

    I like to take some extra snacks with me (for the plane? I don’t eat plane food. I make sandwiches and bring lots of fruit instead. And yep, I do that for the longass flights upwards of 8 hours too).

    It’s definitely all about your mindset. It’s your attitude. And you’ve got to enjoy yourself! Doing what you want is important- and your body will tell you what’s best!

  5. Great concept- the experience of going out is the treat not the eating bad food you don’t usually eat. I like this. I will use this idea in the future 🙂

    I try to eat MOSTLY well when I go out to eat- especially on vacation. However I do have 1 sort of free card meal a week and I usually save that for our 1 night we eat out a week.

  6. I LOVE MY EARLY RISERS (dont tell me you are not yet in bed. oh wait. it just occurred to me the time zone thing. lets just say I LOVE YOU).

    I travel a lot for my research work for my PhD. A lot. So no matter how much I would like to, I cannot treat all my trips as holidays with regards to food intake.

    That is completely what I was thinking when I wrote about viewing my trip this time as work.
    FOR ME it was food as fuel but FOR ME BEFORE TODDLER it completely was the fact I traveled far too often to view every.single.jaunt. as vacation treat time.

    and the portions? Im with Mrs. Jelly Belly about the leave off.
    Less because I think I might eat it and more because Im obsessed with the foodwasting.
    If I know Ill eat 3 chips and they are bringing a VAT I cant stand imagining that they’re gonna toss the rest in the trash.

    THAT SAID Im all about the protein-adding-in when I travel.

    processed carbs plus flying plus hotel air = a BLOATED MIZ.

    this weekend I was REALLY REALLY CLOSE to asking one of my new blogging friends if I could finish her salmon.

    we received a BIGASSPIECE and she ate half and, well, I wanted the rest 🙂

    please to know I RESISTED and didnt inquire.

    Miz.

    GOOD POINTS on the portions.

  8. I used to just use any form of travel as an excuse to pig out, somehow pringles tasted nicer when I paid twice the normal cost and ate them at 10,000 feet! 🙂 But now I use travel as a chance restrain my options solely to healthy ones. Long car journey – Carrot sticks, Apples, Mixed nuts & raisins, and maybe a granola bar. Going on a plane – lots & lots of water, more nuts & raisins, fruit that’s not easily mushable and more granola bars. I try to avoid bringing treats because they are so readily available everywhere I turn, and I’m always afraid that one extra hit of sugar is gonna be the one to tip me over the edge!!

  9. I was off having a banana MizEarlyBird… and coffee…

    Traveling – I “try” to eat at least semi-healthy, whether it’s for work or pleasure. For instance, I’m recently back from a business trip to Las Vegas (yes, it WAS business…) – and my eating – mostly good – although, well – I over ate.

    Traveling for pleasure – seems like more “junk” gets consumed. Maybe it’s the fact we have three kids in tow – kids who will eat an apple, but like their sweets also – or their chips (do we give in to them too much??). Same at restaurants. More fast food…grrrr….as I write this I think – we let ourselves go way too much when we’re on vacation – any thought of “healthy” seems to go out the window….must work on that….

  10. I managed to lose weight on both of my recent vacations, and I think part of the key was in setting my expectations for success. If we define success as not having a full-blown food fest. 🙂 I knew that there would be splurges (it was a vacation, after all), but I tried to keep them in check. Other than one glorious foray into the land of Tex-Mex, I ate like I normally do–turkey, chicken, etc. I kept fruit and almonds in the hotel room for snacks. I also used the hotel stairs instead of the elevator and managed to sneak in a few walks or other types of exercise.

    It IS possible to travel and be healthy, if you try even a little. 🙂

  11. WAIT CAMMY. this:

    I managed to lose weight on both of my recent vacations, and I think part of the key was in setting my expectations for success.

    it was because we finally met in person, right? RIGHT??

    and lance, DO YOU?
    In that my vague memories of travel as a kid are filled with junk (disney and all its accompanying crapfood) BUT we didnt take more than one vacation a year (is it that different now? in todays economy I though no?) and it did reinforce for me that vacation times are treat times and I think that’s GREAT!

    I knew that I could order coke at every meal because it was four days a year (and knew BETTER than to even ASK for the coke upon our return home…)

    Miz.

  12. I don’t travel much. When we go to visit grandpa, we take our own food. Not realistic for a vacation! Miz, I like what you said about making the treat be the fact that someone is preparing the meals, not the food itself! Good tip I’ll have to remember that one!

  13. I agree with Erica – thinking of the service as a treat when dining out is a great concept. I’m always so focused on what is on the menu, that I never think about going out from that perspective (even though I really should cause the husband is not much help in the kitchen…at all…love you honey)

    Anyway, I too worry about going out to eat, whether in town or on vacation. I’m a control freak, and I don’t like others preparing my food or plates. That being said, if it’s date night out at a local restaurant, I can always find something relatively close to what I would fix at home. If we’re on vacation or at a new restaurant, I try to pick a healthy dish, but I make sure it’s something I enjoy. If I really want the big burger, then I get it and either eat half or leave off one of the buns. I’ll make up for it by ordering extra veggies or a pre-dinner salad.

    Snacks are essential for travels. Anytime we go anywhere, the front pocket of my backpack is full of snack bars, dark chocolate, trail mix, and some kind of fruit. My husband always tells me not to worry about packing food, but it never fails – an hour into the flight, it’s “um, do we have any chocolate?”

    Enjoy your trip. Treat yourself. You WILL NOT gain 10 pounds.

  14. “”WAIT CAMMY. this:

    I managed to lose weight on both of my recent vacations, and I think part of the key was in setting my expectations for success.

    it was because we finally met in person, right? RIGHT??””

    That MUST have been the solution on the second vacation. I met you in person and the weight just magically fell away. It was awesome. 🙂

    I’m not sure what the success factorwas on the first vacation. Probably just dumb luck. LOL

  15. we just did a one day trip to visit our oldest at college – ate at two restaurants – I asked the waitresses for what they thought were the cleanest options from their menu – and they directed me to veggie salads with grilled chicken on the sides – and nothing else – because they said everything else was LOADED with salt (which I avoid in high quantities).

    Usually I DO pack my own food in a cooler if we are driving. And I restock for the return trip.

    There are so many precut veggies and fruits available at stores now – that it is pretty simple to pack those and protein. And as you say – carbs are always easy.

    I find that the traveling/driving days are the hardest. So I think it is especially important to plan ahead for those. If I do – then it is easier to spend my calories on something I really want (that is not impulsive) when I am actually THERE/on the vacation.

  16. Gum or hard candy that makes you not want to put anything else in your mouth. I think it’s easy enough to find things to eat, it’s the not eating them!

  17. love the fact we can get a discount on the equalizer now I need to convince hubby i need one.

    and I LOVE YOUR IDEA.

    I had never though about the fact that the treat of eating out could be that I did not have to cook.

    THANK YOU MIZ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  18. I don’t travel much, but I like the advice I’m seeing here.

    Mindset, mindset, mindset.

    (I’m reading Jeannette Fulda’s book, Half-assed, and I think that is one thing that helped her a TON with losing so much weight.)

    I’m working on me-own mindset now.

    And I thinks it’s cool that Vicki went to a restaurant where the waistaff actually KNEW what was a great healthy choice on the menu. I wonder how many servers actually are that aware…

    Make it a great day!

  19. linda? I think you’re off for the day but if NOT do you have any tips from your travels this past weekend?

    Miz.

  20. I’ve finally found your site! I’ve seen people talk about it in blogland, but I haven’t gotten to look until today!

    In my eating heyday, EVERYTHING was an excuse to indulge! Nowadays though, it needs to be a very special occasion to blow the number of calories I used to. Our anniversary, sure! Friday night dinner out? No way!

  21. Great timing! I was working away yesterday. BUT I had NO control over what we were given for lunch. None at all. It was really scary for me, because I’m like you – I allow splurges on holidays only. Work trips = eating normally. But that’s hard if you can’t pick. And skipping meals sends me crazy, so not even slightly an option.

    I’ve tried so hard this week to give myself a break about yesterday. To appreciate that I would have to pick whatever food I KNEW would be good fuel from what we were offered, and not go crazy. But I had to tell myself this was going to happen OVER and OVER for days running up to the event.

    When it came down to it? I didn’t do too badly. The psyche-up worked. I avoided the processed stuff. I didn’t over or undereat. I didn’t do perfectly, but I did OK, and the main thing is I’m went STRAIGHT back to the superhealthy plan immediately afterwards and didn’t freak out and give up.

    TA x

  22. Ohhh, okay. I’m back.

    The one thing I did do Saturday, knowing I’d be going out for Italian Saturday night, was stop at a Kwickie Mart and buy a pre-fab tray of veggies and dip to eat while driving. I figured that I needed to eat so I wouldn’t be starving enough to eat suburban Chicago…or a Surburban…and veggies and dip was the best choice – most mindful for me anyway.

    Angie and I split a salad – that’s something that would work for travelling when the portions are too much. Find someone to split with. I also skipped dessert at the Italian place and didn’t drink wine or other alcohol – I want my calories to be foody, not drinky (such a waste.) I was pretty pleased that I didn’t feel socially obligated to order “Death by chocolate cake” – and Ange was relieved because she was also off the hook and could share her hubby’s cheesecake.

    Ummm, I tried to really think about points and what I was going to do later when I realized that Panera souflee and bagels are not “diet food” (while still deliscioso!)

    And the last thing – water water water. Take along or buy while there not i the airport of hotel fridge, lots of bottle water.

    That’s all I got, babe.

  23. My tips, bring loads of snacks and give yourself a challenge. Last time I went away to Anaheim for a week, I gained I didn’t gain any weight cause I gave myself a “no meat” challenge. I ate mostly vegetables, carbs, and drank lots of water. In the theme parks I brought fruit and drank more water.

    I am doing the same thing this weekend when we go to Key West.

  24. When I travel, I always try to take my own snacks. Apples, string cheese, homemade granola – that way I’ll be less likely to buy french fries at the airport or chips at the gas station. Then, when at the destination, it’s just about making healthy choices, the same you do at home.

    Don’t be afraid to be the annoying person who asks for everything on the side and sends things back if it’s not how you ordered it!

  25. Totally depends on the type of trip. If traveling in
    Europe on fancy vacation (in the Bag Lady’s dreams!) – sample the local cuisine.
    If traveling for work? It’s always possible to find healthy choices, even if it means looking a little harder.

    **disclaimer – the Bag Lady hasn’t traveled since 19….92?, so what does she know?


  26. Brief NERD ALERT:

    I really do don bandannas when I create.

    When I write.

    Different patterns for different genres.

    *Wild pattern? Fitness.
    *Colorful? Tween/children.
    *Black? The moneymakers. The billpayers. (rimshot?)

    Right now I’m in black BUT had to pop in and state:

    BL? Your next trip? To CHICAGO FOR BLOGHER?

    Change the dizclaimer to 2009.

    I’ll be baaaack.

    Miz.

  27. I am careful what I eat due to food allergies, but even then I punt my worries and enjoy myself.
    On driving trips we often take lunch and I will bring snacks. I also indulge in road trip good. I like to try new junk food. In foreign countries I eat whatever.
    I never used to worry about weight gain and it finally caught up with me. I use affirmations re: I will avoid too much junk food, I will eat healthy, I will etc. On a final note my husbasnd bats cleanup when it comes to food. Leftovers are strange and a thing of wonder.

  28. ok
    I’m alone so far in reading the thank you email and realizing I may be over exercising.
    or I already knew.

    and HOW EARLY DO YOU PEPOPEL GET UP?

    I’m never first to comment here!!

  29. Lots of great advice here!

    I fly to San Diego to visit my family about twice a year, and there are some things I know for a fact:

    1. It is practically impossible to get breakfast around there. (My mom is in an assisted living center, and doesn’t even have a kitchenette.)

    2. My sister will have us over at 10:00 every morning for coffee and homemade goodies. (Cake, cookies, etc)

    So, my strategy is to bring a bunch of low-carb protein bars and packets of nuts with me, and to snitch a piece of fruit off of the fruit cart whenever we pass it.

    I wake up at the crack of dawn, eat my bar and a piece of fruit, then take a brisk half-hour walk through Balboa Park. Then I’m all set up to burn those sugary goodies at my sister’s house along with a pack of nuts.

    The rest of the day I’m at the mercy of the facility’s dining room, (or going out to eat) and believe me, they’re not exactly making the best nutritional choices for the residents. I do the best I can; go for the leanest protein choice, avoid the breads and dessert, and pounce on any available fresh fruit or veggie.

  30. Carla *sniff* I usually use my lunch time at work to read my blogs and comment. Well, they blocked your site because it’s a Social Networking Site. They just did this as was I always able to access it before. So my commenting will slow down as I mostly only get to read my blogs at home on the weekends – evenings are just too busy. Just wanted to let you know so that you don’t think I abandoned you. *sniff* Stupid company!

  31. I love your idea of going out to eat being a treat in itself – I love that. It’s so true. So many people use the excuse that going out to eat on a vacation should be a treat…but if you are 30 yards from the ocean or 50 yards from Times Square, shouldn’t THAT be the real treat?

    I went to Ireland a few years ago and ate HEARTY meals every day. But I also was doing a TON of walking and not snacking (because of the aforementioned hearty meals). Guess what – I didn’t gain an ounce! I agree, so much of it is your mindset. 🙂

  32. Splitting plates at restaurants works great with an amenable person (I however am always out of luck with all my colleagues being 20something men of ravenous appetites) as does ordering from the appetizers section if there are suitable options there or from the kids menu if possible and suitable.

    On the plane across country lines, packing snacks can be tricky with rules on meat, fresh food and cheese. But if it all eaten by the time you arrive, then pack away! The security measures are also limiting and need to be had in mind. In my case, that usually translates to trail mix and more trail mix. I also carry an empty plastic bottle through security that I can fill at a water fountain beyond the gate. I use empty cheap bottles (that really shouldn’t be reused because the cheap plastic degrades over time and uses) for this and not my nice bottles because if I forget to empty it before passing the security gate at the next airport, I either have to drink the remaining contents on the spot or lose the bottle.

    I travel a lot by overnight ferries (12 or 16 hours depending on exact path). For those I pack myself a nice meal for dinner, which is eaten shortly after departure so anything goes without the need for a cooler. I usually pack a bag with my favorite muesli and in the morning I simply buy a little container of yogurt to mix it in. Having my bag of muesli in my pocket makes it much easier to ignore the muffins and pastries that constitute most of the breakfast offerings on the ferries.

    This has turned into a longer comment than expected, with lots of topics mixed in. My apologies if it seems a bit all over the place!

    NEVER!! I LOVE THE LONG COMMENTS (it’s the way I role. I love the details) and the ALL OVER THE PLACE is how I live…

  33. quickie…

    and so often for me the COMPANY is the big treat.

    That was the huge indulgence this weekend.

    smart funny snarky sassy (even you twit2fit!) ADULT conversation.

    Miz.

  35. First off, I would “allow” myself some good eats and expect it. There’s nothing worse then feeling like a failure. If you eat better then you expected – its’ win win all around. It’s all about mind tricks with me, and it works so I’ll go with it 🙂 But, not every meal needs to be an indulging situation. Eat sensibly, but don’t deny. Portion control. That’s all I’m saying about that 🙂

    How great on the update! AND, how great on the $10 off! Can they do this again in January or February when I’m not in extra tight purse mode from X-mas? Just last night I was thinking about how much I’d really, really like to have that piece but that I won’t be able to afford it until I survive the holidays!

    you KNOW I emailed the company and asked…..Ill keep you posted!!

  36. i have to chime in DON’T PANIC. i know when i panic, it never ends up well!! and when i am already in “panic mode,” and it something “indulgent” on the trip, i panic even more!

    i’m not sure if the reader is thinking about losing weight on the trip, but maybe having the mindset of MAINTAINING while on the trip? i think that takes a lot of pressure off and maintaining is a huge HUGE accomplishment on a trip i think. but i know if i’m on “lose” mode on a trip it is ultra stressful, not fun, and again, doesn’t end up well!

  38. oh and miz, i love that you eat food as fuel. you are my right-eating mindset role model.

    people often ask me why I started this blog.

    mainly it was for friends and family as they’d all ask the same or similar fitness questions and I decided Id just gather the info all in one place.

    along that same line I wanted to save people time.
    share my myriad mistakes in an effort to allow them to SKIP some of the learning curve of fitness/trying to live a balanced life.

    the food as fuel? took me THIRTY SIX YEARS to get.

    in summation: dont be me.

    thanks for your kind words Madison.

  39. I tend to travel with nuts, fruit, and water. Last time I was on a plane, I dragged BK to the airport au bon pain, and we got wraps, water, coffee, and tea before finding the gate.

    If you’re staying for a while, go to the grocery store or something, and pick up the healthy things you eat at home.

  40. Wonderful advice. One of the things I took away from my abortive Atkins experience(s) was a rather profound thing he says in his book – that it’s fine to splurge every once in a while, on special occasions, but it’s important to recognize that eating out is not ALWAYS a special occasion. Ditto for traveling.

    On the food as fuel topic – DH and I had a conversation last night about the Biggest Loser product placement Jello commercials, and I commented that I don’t buy any of the products they advertise on that show; he responded that I do buy Jello. Long discussion ensued and the upshot was I realized that, where I used to eat sugar free “treats” like Jello or pudding in the evenings, I’ve stopped doing that. I did that because I realized that while they were fine calorie-wise, they weren’t giving me any nutritional benefit, so I started eating things like nuts and fruits and veggies instead. Evidently, at some point, I made more of a transition to the “food as fuel” mindset than I’d realized.

    It’s a really, really nice thing to discover. Because it’s what I’ve been shooting for all along. 🙂

    V.

  41. Traveling happens about 4 to 6 times a year for business and the meals were as hard as anything to control. Usually when you arrive, you see colleagues that you haven’t seen for some time so they immediately drag you to the bar to reminisce. On day one you’re already down on the healthy scale because someone always orders that wonderful happy hour fare. Where else can you make a meal on spicy chicken wings, loaded potato skins and fried cheese.

    I’ve been more aware lately and find that I skip the drinks and make a better decision when it comes to food. Fish and liver are some of the things that I don’t get tons of at home so I take the opportunity to indulge while on the road. Breakfast can also be a place that gets away from you, so a bowl of oatmeal is now available courtesy of my carryon bag and a in room coffee maker or microwave.

    Of course there are many things to learn when doing the travel thing and I think it gets better the more time you go. For instance one other thing I’ve learned is to pull the curtain over that gigantic window in my room right before the shower.


  42. Peeking in.

    Tom? I read your comment was noddingnoddingnodding & LAUGHED OUT LOUD.

    my black bandanna & I thank you.

    Miz.

  44. It’s been my experience with travelling that a little preparation can go a long way to reassuring myself. If I take the time to pack a few healthy just-in-case snacks (like you) then I felt comforted in my committment to eating well. That said, when I was in Italy I ate gelato six meals a day;)

    LOVE LOVE LOVE the update from your overexercising reader. Congrats to them! What a great example for the rest of us:)

  45. Like you, I stay on track when traveling! It’s a learned skill, and not difficult to do if you want to. I “help” restaurants serve me the meal I want 🙂

  46. Food for fuel has got to be one of the toughest mindset feats there possibly is when you have/had lots to lose. It is the ultimate goal and acheivement in this whole dang adventure, in my opinion.

    Your mindset and “expectations” of yourself while travelling are fantastic! I absolutely agree 100% with what you said about “attracting” the 10 lbs gain. It sounds so simple, but changing those kinds of thought patterns are really the most important part of the outcome in those situations.

    Thanks for setting me off on the right track today 🙂

  47. Ummm. You saw my Hula Hut pics, right? So, needless to say, TOTAL TREAT. Over and over and over again. Ooops.

    But, I went to the gym Mon and RAN OUTSIDE on Tues. Yay me!

  48. When we go on vacation, I let myself enjoy the foods they offer and try not to overdo it. Next month we head back to our favorite AI resort but this time we will take full advantage of the state of the art fitness facility so my recommendation is to enjoy yourself without overdoing it AND work out as you would at home. Also carry/pack your own healthier snacks to eat on the run.

  49. I completely agree with this. I’m going to Miami tomorrow and my healthy snacks will be: apples (a ton), zbars, possibly some nuts – but I just discovered that I have way too much sodium in my diet :(, and possibly some pb&j sammies.

    Great post 🙂

  50. Very good insight. I struggle with keeping my head on straight during business trips too. I think mentally preparing yourself to make good choices and to NOT gain 10 pounds is great advice.

  51. Oh god, I can’t believe I’m bringing up my Weight Watchers meeting (it was actually fairly irritating this week, truth be told), but in a way the holiday season tests this same “vacation mindset” muscle. Sometimes simply maintaining your weight can be a success during the flurry of work parties, family get-togethers, finger foods, and the free fudge that arrives mysteriously at the office. For others, continuing to lose weight but in smaller increments during the holidays is a positive but realistic expectation. Either way . . . if every gathering is treated as a food free-for-all, things will be tough on your progress. I’m planning to reign it in for work functions but allow myself leeway at the bigger family feasts on Thanksgiving and Xmas. Because, as you said, the company is the most important thing.

  52. I think I tend to eat the same when I’m on the road as I do when I’m at home, with one exception…

    I am the freak that always loses weight on a trip. At home, I’m tempted to snack more than when I am on a trip.

  53. Very timely once again – I leave for a business trip next week. AND have to work nights – which will screw up my whole system. I think I am going to take the time to pack some quicky-healthy snacks to have in my hotel and plan ahead a little (because of this post – otherwise – I wouldn’t have thought about it until I got there and just started eating crap when I found the time). Thanks. 🙂

  54. I am currently on a cleansing diet for 3 weeks (low refined carbs/sugar) and I have had to change some of my holiday plans so I can stay on track!

    I tend to eat better when I am at a business trip or holiday because I don’t buy snacks. Snacking kills me. I refuse to buy one serving containers on the road because I think they are horrible for the environment and I don’t ever buy big containers because I won’t eat them all on a trip. It’s weird psychology, I know. 🙂

  55. It’s completely true that “I’m going to gain 10lbs on this trip” is a self-fufilling prophecy. When I went to Chicago on business a couple months ago I was determined not to treat it like a vacation. I had drinks with co-workers at night, but usually only one (max two). The restaurant at the hotel miraculously served oatmeal and I used the gym every morning, like I would at home. I came home exactly as I left.

    Also you’re the best! Hi!

  56. Chime in time 😉

    For some of you that might have glimpsed at my blog, you know the way I eat. When traveling on business, my expense account will allow me to sample nice restaurants. When I eat at those establsihments, I eat the same types of foods I would be eating normally, except they are prepared restaurant style. I enjoy it!

    Vacation is the same with the exception that I might have a nice adult beverage in the middle of the day and a nap afterwards.
    Like I tell my older sister all the time (who seems puzzled with my discipline), I’ve been eating my way for a while now and I honestly don’t crave “the bad stuff”
    That is not to say that I won’t indulge in something I really get a taste for.
    For example my last biz trip to NYC. I enjoyed a toasted everything bagel with scallion cream cheese and smoked salmon. It was DELICIOUS. No bad feelings, no guilt, pure enjoment.
    I really like Miz’s statement “When I’m in work-mode I crave foods that will help to propel me forward both mental clarity-wise & energy-wise.”

    Hope my comment didn’t come off as arrogant or condescending.

    I just feel sometimes, a lot of people make this eating thing too complicated and too important.

    Have a great day!
    Marc

  57. you guys are awesome.
    I know.
    I say it all the time but you’ll have that.

    so.many.thoughts. but I’ve donned my over the knee socks (a sure sign Im done working and back to playing BabyMama. anyone else out there love the OTK socks? out yourself!)

    this:

    Food for fuel has got to be one of the toughest mindset feats there possibly is.

    so very true.

    for me it only came AFTER I began to live in my body. to experience it (the good and the bad) & to truly FEEL what it was like being inside my skin.

    (make any sense? to hear my cravings. to know when I was craving for head reasons and not for stomach.)

    only then did it click that by giving my body only what it NEEDS except for the times Im purely having fun and decide what it NEEDS is a sleeve of oreos would I have the energy to embrace life and LIVE.

    ok.

    lecture complete 🙂

    off to frolic with the Tornado.

    Miz.

  58. Love my Equalizer used it just yesterday morning. Thanks for the gift Miz!!

    You’re exactly right about business v vacation eating. I love this post. You’re always right on with your advice.
    🙂 I have to keep this in mind the week I am on vacation before Thanksgiving.

    Updated my blog XOXOX you’ll get the details you were looking for there.

  59. the experience is the treat…..
    i LOVE that!
    so many times i feel when i am eating out that i should just go for broke because eatting out=treat.
    you just gave me something great consider as i slide my booty over to the far corner of the next restaurant booth!

    can’t wait to catch up on your oatcation!

  60. I went to Rome for my honeymoon in January and tasted whatever I wanted. We walked many miles a day and I actually lost seven pounds. I’d like to say I planned it that way, but I didn’t.

    Other than sampling the local fare when I travel, I REALLY try not to flash an entire city while showering like a particular blogger I know. 😉

  61. the business trips i usually take (maybe twice a year) are the kind where they mostly feed you there (not at a restaurant), and i’m a REALLY picky eater so chances are pretty good that i won’t even eat half of what they put in front of me (sometimes even including dessert because people tend to put BERRIES and all kinds of icky stuff on dessert and not everyone likes that, ya know??!.

    my real challenge at these types of meetings is the break food – every hour they’re shoving cookies and ice cream bars and pastries and sodas at us as a ploy to keep people awake. so, my brain goes “HEY, i didn’t get to eat lunch/dinner like everyone else and GOOD GRIEF what if i waste away before the next meal!! i’d better have a cookie…ok, maybe two cookies because i see OTHER people taking two cookies so that’s totally ok.”

    yeah, my brain doesn’t do me a lot of favors when i’m faced with cookies. sigh.

    um…i don’t think i gave any actual tips or advice by sharing all of that, but that is most definitely my challenge.

    BUT i so love what you said about seeing the people you’re with as the treat, and just treating the food like it’s fuel. i almost ALWAYS think: eating out = FREEFORALL. when i’m eating at home i don’t think i have to have a sandwich/burger AND fries AND soda, but if i’m out somewhere? oh, most definitely.

    great things to ponder, Miz, as always!

  62. First, yay to Equalizer guy. If I had disposable income right now . . .

    Second, “food as fuel” took a lot of work for me, too. But I too find it much more satisfying to my tastebuds as well as to my body. Eating “clean” and “whole” and organic is absolutely delicious and i now find that even at treat meals, my body and mind both ask for the healthier options most of the time (I still have a beloved weakness for sliders).

    So on to me. I used to see vacation as a time to eat absolutely whatever whenever. To skip all exercise. To, in short, be as “free as possible.” But this summer when I went to the beach, I was just a few weeks away from a triathlon. So I went for fun exercise (running on the beach, renting beach bicycles, swimming parallel to shore in the ocean) and we prepared all our meals in our condo kitchen except one (birthday celebration for my brother-in-law) meal. It was wonderful. I felt healthy and strong the entire week. I enjoyed drinking my water on the beach just as much as I would have enjoyed pina coladas (and without the sun+alcohol headache). I felt just as free and relaxed as when I indulge, perhaps more because there was no dread of going back to unindulgent life, no concern for what I had just done to my body.

  63. I haven’t traveled much lately, but when we lived in Europe we traveled A LOT. Sometimes my eating was dictated by the fact that we had one or two small children with us. We definitely ate more McDonald’s than we do at home (because European restaurants are usually less family-friendly than American ones and there aren’t many highchairs to be had outside of fast food joints. That being said, I didn’t necessarily pig out on the worst choices even at those places.

    Also, the best darn meal I ever had was at a hotel restaurant in France. I don’t speak or read French and I had no idea what was on the menu they gave us. We could choose from two meals so we chose one arbitrarily and they brought us course after course. It was amazing and probably not at all low-fat, but it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience (though I kind of hope to repeat it, actually). We didn’t eat that way every day, though, and we tended to stop in grocery stores and stock up on our own food to eat in our hotel room or in the car–cheaper for the accountant hubby.

    Also, in the case of our European trips, we did a lot of walking and hiking so we burned off a lot of calories.

    I really think it depends on what kind of trip but I don’t think there’s any reason to gain 10 lbs while traveling.

  64. I’m glad so many commenters responded to the experience of eating out as treat thing– I don’t think I really focused on that originally, and it made me rethink it. Yes! Being served? No dishes? I’ll take it. Maybe this will help me avoid feeling like this is my Big Chance to eat every deep fried item and dessert on the menu.

    The truth is, though, I don’t tend to gain weight on vacation– I think probably because I snack or overeat primarily out of boredom, and that’s just not a factor for me on most vacations! (Now can I go on a permanent vacation for the sake of my health?)

  65. When I used to travel for work, my company takes care of my meals. Of course, I had to indulge since work was paying for it. And in my early 20s, my metabolism can handle all the creamy sauces and desserts.

    Now I mainly travel for pleasure. Though I still rate my vacations based upon the food, I have a little more self control. And I often take my pedometer to make sure I get my 10,000 steps since I rarely exercise while I am traveling. Walking yes, but not exercise.

  66. i agree 100% that it has to do with mindset. if you tell yourself that you’re going to gain weight, you call it upon the universe to shrink your jeans that used to fit just right.
    when i go on vacation, i eat the exact same way i do at home. if i’m with the hubby, just the two of us, i’ll share a dessert with him and drink wine to my heart’s content. i still workout 6 days a week, no matter where i am. working out is something i do for me, for my health, and i think it’s just as important as brushing my teeth.
    my deciding factor on whether to treat myself on a trip is i’ll eat it if it’s something i really want that i know i can’t get back home. a great example: REAL mexican food. when i go back to tucson, you know i’m going to have some homemade tamales 😀
    happy wednesday miz!

  67. When I travel for work, I usually stick to the same foods that I would normally eat at home. I seek out the hotel gym and stash a bunch of larabars.

    When I’m on vacation, it’s a whole other situation. I let myself try the local foods, walk around a lot and eat according to my hunger. I know that when I get back to my normal life and routine, the couple of extra pounds will come off.

  68. I wish I weren’t so food obsessed that I couldn’t just eat ‘normal’ when I travel. Because I am food obsessed, I take canned tuna, Ryvita crackers, organic peanut butter and occasionally protein bars. And tequila.

  69. I always take healthy snacks and meal fixin’s on my vacations and I make sure to re-stock when I’m on the road. Favorites include hummus (pre-made or powdered), fresh veggies, fresh and dried fruits, nuts, soup (for those late-night arrivals in small towns where everything is closed), crackers, yogurt, etc.

    I try to exercise every day when I’m on vacation (running is a fantastic way to check out a new place) and I try to include a physical activity every day, such as hiking or horseback riding. Even just strolling a town plaza is an acceptable activity, as long as my vacation isn’t about sitting on my behind all the time.

    On vacation, just like at home, I look at food as I do my budget. A really special treat is a-ok. Splurging on crap is not. I usually make sure to have one “splurge” dinner while out, of the white tablecloth, professionial chef, drop at least a couple hundred dollars for two people, variety. That’s the kind of meal worth tossing the calorie counter for! McDonald’s? I don’t think so. Pass the hummus and carrot sticks, please, ’cause I’m holding out for the real deal.

    I have yet to gain weight on a vacation, and I often lose an inch or two. Stay active, eat healthy, and save your budget of both dollars and calories for that really superlative meal that’s worth it and memorable. If you’re going to eat “bad” you want it to be the sort of bad that’s so good you get tears in your eyes years later as you talk about it. There’s no fast food joint on the planet that will do that for you!

    Oh, and if being able to fit in one’s clothes at the end of vacation isn’t enough incentive to stick to a clean diet, consider that drastic dietary changes can lead to GI issues, some of which can put quite a damper on what’s supposed to be a fun time.

  70. I’ve never been on a “business trip,” but when I go on vacation I definitely allow treats. However, I also keep exercising and most of my vacations have included a lot of walking, so sometimes I even end up losing weight. Also, I continue to have the healthiest breakfast that I can possibly find and to get fruits/vegetables whenever possible.

    And yes, we should meet for a pedicure. Feetsies need some rubbing.

  71. So that’s what I’ve been doing! Seems I’ve tapped in to my “treatuitive” eating.

    Don’t panic is key.

    I like to reward myself. ” When in Rome”… can be a great motto. The problem is we sometimes crumple up our maps (ok fine, take the batteries out of our GPS’s) and continue on the treat train.

    Knowing what you want and where you want to be is #1. If you don’t have a set destination, you’ll steer off track.

  72. Very sound advice as always! When I travel, I try to stay someplace that has a kitchen. I can usually find someplace on vrbo.com (vacation rentals by owner). If I’m visiting family, I make sure to offer to cook a couple of meals. I get to squeeze in an ideal meal for me, and the hosts are always thrilled! Finally, whenever I’m going someplace new I research the eats in the neighborhood where I’ll be. A little pre-planning means you’ll know where the cheap and healthy places are rather than wandering around starving and eventually having to just stop and eat something! Which is what usually happens to me. Good luck!

  73. damn you are all SMART and generous with your time.

    this captured it all so well. this captured ALL OF LIFE so well in my opinion.

    Knowing what you want and where you want to be is #1. If you don’t have a set destination, you’ll steer off track.

    it’s the law of attraction, too, People. (I know. I know.)

    we need to know exactly what we want and send THAT vibe/thought/vision/whatevs out into the world.

    if we dont know? aint nobody else gonna know.

    Miz., who is waiting for our emailer to reveal herself…as always.

  74. Heck yes I eat differently when I’m on the road. Take last weekend when I was in Charlotte visiting a college friend. Her husband (who I believe weighs all of 150 pounds) is a junk food junkie. IT WAS EVERYWHERE. Did I have some candy? Yes I did. Did I have so much that I had a tummy ache after? No I didn’t. When we went out, I ate things that I usually do. When I’m at a conference (which I do 2-3 times a year) I make a rule :SUBWAY FOR LUNCH. That way, if I have a bigger dinner, it’s no biggie. I also bring fruit leathers and Fiber One bars with me to use as snack and quickly grab up any bananas or apples that are free. Then I feel free to splurge a bit at dinner 🙂

  75. I really, really like the idea of regarding the “not having to cook, serve & clean up” as the treat in eating out – not the actual food. I think that’s going to help a LOT. Thank you!

  76. that’s funny, i kind of was wondering if you would be enjoying the buttery, sugary goodness that was our dessert Saturday nite. I totally treat myself when I’m travelling – mostly at dinner and for dessert. I usually stick with fruit and oatmeal for breakfast and a sald for lunch. But no holds barred on the treats!

  77. and I totally did. how could one NOT dig in to the wondernessment which was that AMAZING APPLE PIE!

    you’ll have that…

    Miz.

  79. the company as the treat.
    not the dessert.

    (not always at least :))

    why had I never thought of that?????

    thank you Miz.

  80. So many great ideas! I love this blog!

    Generally, I opt for low-to-moderate carb when traveling, and I use the usual tricks for “guesstimating” portions. For fast food dining, salads with grilled meat, no croutons, and minimal dressing are my staple. We often pack or buy protein and veggies for things like airline flights.

    “Obsessive planning” works pretty well for me, too. On our last trip (family in Michigan…during which I used to gain at least 5 pounds), I started thinking strategy weeks in advance. Strategy, of course, included budgeting for stuff I knew I’d want to eat in Michigan that I could only get there…a little harder to do when you’re going someplace new and unexpected, but the principles are similar.

  81. When I was in Chicago, on a business trip last year, there was nary a grocery store in sight. I did find myself a Walgreens where I could get unsalted mixed nuts, low fat milk, granola bars, jerky, and crystal light to help me from eating the junk that was readily available.

    Aside from that I hit the hotel gym every morning and night to help compensate for the Steak Dinners and post-show Martini’s.

    Chicago was also a fabulous city to walk around in as it is relatively flat. Not all cities are as pedestrian friendly, but taking public transit always increases your “short burts of activity” in walking to or from your destination or drop off/pick up points.

  82. I am a self-proclaimed cheapskate, and a homebody. I don’t particularly enjoy going out to eat. It’s nice as a treat every now and then, but in general I’d much prefer to purchase, cook, and clean up after my own dinner. So maybe my advice isn’t all that applicable.

    When I go on trips, I bring Clif bars and Kashi protein bars (because I find them the most filling and the least cloyingly sweet). Depending on where I am, I’ll try to find a grocery store and make easy meals. When I was in Europe years ago, I got some (real) Swiss cheese and hearty bread at a local grocery store, and that was lunch for a two or three days. And it was fabulous.

    So depending on where you’re going, maybe you can find a local market. That gives you the opportunity to get a feel for the community and lifestyle of the place where you’re staying (in a way that a restaurant just can’t do), as well as allowing you to have control over what’s going in to your body. And maybe there’s something special (like the Swiss cheese) that’s a special part of that locale, and that you’ll be able to experience first-hand.

    And yes, I also had a good amount of Swiss chocolate while there 🙂

  83. I agree: when I’m on vacation, especially in Europe, I don’t worry about food or exercise. I indulge. If I gain weight (and I often don’t because we walk around so much), it comes off within a couple of weeks of getting back to my routine. So I just don’t worry about it.

  84. Oh there’s so many comments, and I don’t want to read through all of them to find out if my suggestions are redundant! Here goes:

    My travel strategy is to eat breakfast and lunch from supermarkets whenever possible – if the hotel has a fridge and/or microwave, I’m set. I eat regular, normal stuff for those two meals, things I can get in a supermarket like hard boiled eggs, a veggie tray, diced fruit, salads, some cheese, yogurt, etc. Then I can enjoy a dinner at a restaurant. My method with that – which has more to do with enjoying the location than anything else – is to have an appetizer at one restaurant, and then move on to a different place for another appetizer. Especially if you’re walking a few blocks in between, it’s ideal: it gives your stomach time to realize you’re full; you get to experience more than one place; and you even get a little exercise on the way.

  85. I like that idea of a traveling feast (wink).

    Especially somewhere warm!

    It would be fun to do 3 different locations: drinks/apps, dinner, dessert (and then the spring chickens can head out for more drinks. Miz? She mightcould be heading home)

    You get to try 3 different restaurants *and* you get all that cardio between courses.

    Thanks Marla!

  86. Totally not a tip filled comment, but I have to ask what all y’all mean when you say “food as fuel”. I think I must interpret that phrase differently than most or something…

  87. This post couldn’t have come at a better time. Not because I need the advice but because I will be taking a very monumental vacation soon. No, I’m not going any where exotic but for the first time, I am planning on exercising while I’m on vacation! *gasp* I know, how crazy right?!? I am actually EXCITED to try the gym at the place we are staying (I currently do not exercise at a gym.) Eating on vacation for me is the same as exercising on vacation: it is easier to continue doing things the same as I do daily than it is to go “off” for a week and then have to reign myself back in!

  88. “the experience is a TREAT, even if you eat the same things you might eat at home due to the fact you get to sit on your bottom while someone else prepares & cleans up after you! ”

    *lightbulb* OOOHHHHHHHHHHH. I seriously never thought of it that way. Although, depending on the restaurant, I would still think the food was a treat if it’s something labor-intesive that I would NEVER make myself. But I’m kind of a food nut like that. 🙂

    I must confess that I have a hard time on vacations with the food packing, because when I’m stressed out, my stomach gets upset. So I almost always pack food that I would never (or rarely) eat at home: crackers, rice cakes, starch in various forms because it settles my stomach. That said, I’m also a HUGE fan of those waterless tuna packs, especially the seasoned ones. They are high in salt, but tasty enough to eat on their own.

  89. Oh, one more thing re: food portions. I have found that most restaurants are HAPPY to give me a half-sized portion, especially if I’m willing to pay full-price. Just a thought.

  90. Early riser, but only online during naps=)

    I had a similar recent comment on my site, and told them to plan ahead, and shared what I do.

    -I bring healthy food with me…like almonds and craisins. If it’s a road trip just pack a cooler or small lunch pail.
    -Go online and locate the nearest grocery store before I leave so I know where to go to get some healthy food.
    -Order a half plate, appetizer, or just a salad.

    Make the same choices you usually make at home. We all want to be healthy, and why not on vacation. Believe me, after eating healthy for so long, those other foods do a number on your stomach.

    When on a true vacation enjoy. You know what the consequences will be, and it’s up to you. You don’t have to pig out every meal unless you really want to. I’m going to San Diego for a celebration with my hubby in May. I plan on eating some really “good” food, but I also plan on eating healthy, because It simple makes me feel better, and gives me more energy to play. We’re flying I’ll be hitting the grocery store the first night we’re there and stocking up the tinny fridge with healthy snacks, and some treats too. Hey, It is a celebration, and it’s a huge money saver.

  91. I have to ask what all y’all mean when you say “food as fuel”.

    and you arent the only one. post coming (and I emailed you).

    I am actually EXCITED to try the gym at the place we are staying.

    I rarely workout on vacation either and this chicago trip may have made me a ‘checkout the hotel gym’ converta as well…although it might not be QUITE as fun w/out all the other crazy fitness people around.

    I’m also a HUGE fan of those waterless tuna packs

    oh that you could have seen me eating mine between meetings this past weekend (in my room).
    RIP, FORK, CRAMINMOUTH, REPEAT, SPRAY PERFUME.

    Miz.

  92. Great advice Miz. I usually pack my snacks (I like granola bars, fruit leather and Wheat Thins) and then just go with the flow for meals and try to pick something else, but not stress about it much as I think that makes it worse!

  93. I totally agree about going out and spending time with family/friends. The food is great too, but the experience is what makes it so enjoyable.

  94. wow. thanks Miz.
    this email was mine about the trip and I can not believe how many people responded.
    I am going to print all this out and the biggest help to me is that you said:

    to change my mindset about the weight gain
    to decide what kind of trip it is (all business)
    that the meals can be a TREAT because I am not cooking.
    I have 3 kids and cook all the time.
    and I had never thought of that.

    thank you all!!!!

  96. I didn’t read the comments so I just know someone said what I am saying, but you’re right about the vacation versus noncation. When I go on vacayyyytion, which is once every oh, other year or so, I eat what I eat when I eat it. And whatever. But the daily, and even the occasional trip to whereever, I do bring my myoplex lite bars so I can snack in between destinations, and I order the grilled chickensomethingorother with veggies and/or chicken sandwich sans fries, that type of thing. But bringing the BARS IS KEY FOR ME! because otherwise, I get stuck at the airport starving and then all of a sudden I find myself ordering a doublecheesyonionburger with large fries from 5 guys.

    Bring bring bring bring bring. Even on my roadtrip moving back from Utah to Tampa. Bring the bars.

  97. Right you are about the “attracting pounds” mentality.

    I know it’s bad, but I always go into vacations (Thanksgiving, anyone?) with the “I’m going to be self-righteous (on the inside…lol) about my healthy eating because it’s what *I* need. I do it for myself.”

    It keeps the pounds I don’t want away.

  98. snacks help. also knowing that you will be traveling and you will be eating crappily thanks to airports having less than stellar food selections. i actually think the authors of “fitness for dummies” actually mentioned that traveling can and will screw you up a little.

    just be prepared for it. have time in between flights? wander the airport. most airports (beyond security) are big enough that you can walk dragging your bags (ooo, resistance!) and get a decent workout. i think the msp airport actually has a walking path in it.

    depending on where you’re traveling, try to choose a walking city. in high school, i did a couple school trips to europe (france and the british isles, respectively) where we walked a TON. my friends lost weight thanks to all the walking while i maintained (though i was also eating tons of crepes and ice cream and so on and so forth). walking helped negate the fact that i was eating like crap.

  99. Miz — you have the best points in here. I’ve bookmarked this for reference…truly amazing post.

    Not to mention you crack me the heck up !!!! Can you come back to chicago for another visit? I need a good guffaw!

  100. Miz, you hit it right on the head. If you go into a trip thinking you will gain a ton of weight, it will happen. Instead, do what I do. I’m an airline pilot. I do it for a living. Eating on the road healthy = damn near impossible. And it’s not like I can lug around 4 days worth of healthy food with me, cause I need underwear and other assorted clothing items in my suitcase! And I can’t afford healthy food on the road, cause places jack their prices up like 9 billion percent when they know I’m coming. So what I do is work out a lot on the road. Running in different cities is always an adventure. And when in airports, I look for fresh fruit at coffee stands. As for snacks, I munch on peanuts which keep me full or trail mix. Tuna packs, instant oatmeal, all things you can eat easily. And when I can’t eat healthy, I accept it. I think that’s all you can do.

  101. The reply to your traveling for pleasure question: I guess I look at it in two ways when I wrote earlier – a big vacation, yes – let’s splurge – we don’t do this everyday. But other travels – like visits to parents across the state – or basketball tournaments 2 hours away – these things are all filled with “junk” – and they happen way more than once a year. And therein lies the problem for me. A bag of cookies for the car ride. A stop at McD’s three times over the weekend. (that one’s an exxageration – we rarely go there anymore) field trips for school – everyone else is bringing soda for lunch – why can’t I? maybe this is getting a bit too small for travel – but it is these things that “get” me – not the big one-time trips. so, my bad for not explaining that earlier…

  103. Very helpful info. Love the part about focus on the treat of letting someone else cook your food, not the food. Need to do this more.

  104. I travel for a living and when I first started this job I gained about 25 lbs. So gross. But then I got serious about my health and weight. I realized that just becuase my work is paying for this fancy dinner, doesn’t mean I have to eat like a crazy woman. I tried to eat clean and plain it it got easier.

    PS: Finally posted today. Thanks for missin’ me 🙂

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