Lifestyle

8 Easy Hacks That Will Help You Stay In Shape While You're Abroad

by Alexandra Mullane
Luke + Mallory Leasure

Going abroad for any amount of time can make a considerable difference on your body.

Whether you are chowing down on pasta in Italy or eating fish and chips nonstop in London, it's easy to get so caught up in the food, you ultimately forget to be healthy.

On top of being thrown into new types of food, you are thrown out of your daily routine and gym memberships.

In times like these, there are many alternatives to help you stay healthy without dropping money on a gym membership you probably don't have time for.

1. Grocery shop and make a list before you go out.

Grocery shopping is always cheaper than going out, so make some of your meals from the local grocery stores.

Also, before going, make sure to make a list based on how many meals you need so you don't waste food or money on useless foods.

This not only cuts down on unhealthy foods, but also on spending.

2. Cut out the unhealthy snacks

Hungry? Say no to the fast-food chain and hop into small local delis or small take-out places.

Pick up a salad or ham and cheese sandwich.

Choosing fast food or a gelato all of the time is going to add up.

To be even smarter, pack little snacks in your bag like almonds to help fill you up throughout the day in a healthy way.

3. Do exercises in your room

Planks are so easy to do in the comfort of your own hotel room or dorm room while you are off abroad.

Planks aren't the only options either.

While away from home, make sure to take time everyday to do little exercises to help you stay in shape. This extra 15 minutes a day will pay off in huge ways in the long haul.

4. Walk everywhere

Don't always take mass transportation. If something is walkable, walk it.

The extra cardio will help to keep you lean while traveling the world and being off of your daily routine.

Walking is not only significantly healthier, but you'll be amazed at how fast your Fitbit reaches it's 10,000 steps.

5. Don't overeat

Although the food can be amazing in other countries, it is important not to overeat during meals.

Take the food home if you are out and don't overcook meals for yourself.

Remember: You are supposed to stop eating when you are about 75 percent full, so stop eating then before you become stuffed.

6. Drink a lot of water

Water is an essential part of your diet, and dehydration can actually make you gain weight.

Make sure while you are having fun seeing the world, you have a water bottle close by.

Invest in a water bottle and carry it around with you everywhere you go.

7. Make sure you get enough sleep

Sleep is essential to not only for traveling, but for staying healthy.

Without sleep, your body gets more worn down, your metabolism isn't as high and you just are not feeling your best as you travel. This is the worst.

Make sure to get eight hours of sleep most nights and really try to. You will thank yourself the next morning when you feel rested and ready to take on the world.

And your metabolism will thank you, too.

8. Choose healthy tourist attractions

Looking for fun things to do in a new place?

Many cities offer free walking tours and many also have places where you can hike.

It's a healthy alternative than a hop-on-hop-off bus and you'll get to see a lot more.

Oftentimes, hiking tours also give you stellar views of the city you are visiting.