Travel Tips

According to seatguru.com, US airlines serve worse food than international airlines:

"When asked which comfort feature provided by an airline flyers value the most, getting a full meal overwhelmingly ranked highest (40%). Singapore Airlines was voted #1 for serving the best food (19%), followed by British Airways (9%), Continental (7%), Air France (7%), and Cathay Pacific." [source]

We're not surprised--with the exception of a few of our transcontinental travels on international airlines, we've been deeply disappointed in the food choices. Here our some of our tips for traveling:

• Stock up on Smart Cookies! Ok, yeah, you expected that one. But think about it! What could be better than a low calorie, hunger suppressing cookie for traveling? You don't need to keep it cold or heat it up, there's no prep needed, and it won't be damaged if you just throw it in your bag (or purse or pocket!). Smart Muffins, Smart Bagels, and Smart Crunch also need no prep or storage, and make great in-flight meals!
• Bring your own beverage. With some airlines charging for everything, including water (!!!) you're better off being prepared. Even the airlines that give you beverages only bring them by once during a flight, and who knows when you'll get thirsty. Airplanes air also dehydrate your skin, and can worsen "nasal irritation, headaches, dry eyes and lips, and other common air traveler complaints" [source] We know that you can't bring water through security, but buy a bottle after you're through security or just bring an empty water bottle (the bigger the better!) and fill it from water fountains. Also consider buying a sports beverage with electrolytes!
  
• Bring raw veggies. Something like broccoli is best, but also try sliced peppers (I love red, yellow and orange the best, but green are great, too!), celery, snow peas, green beans, carrots or edamame. These veggies will have a great crunch factor and will be so much fresher (and preservative free!) than the food and snacks airlines provide!
• Pack lean protein. If your flight is during dinner time and you need a little more, consider packing yourself some lunch meat--turkey and chicken are best. Buy them from the deli in the grocery store (not in the prepacked packages that have a lot more sodium and preservatives) and bring them--they'll last outside the fridge for a little while. Also consider hard boiling some eggs (toss the yolk!) and bring them to munch on. If your trip is a long one and offers a full meal, see what special meals are available. (Take a look at airlinemeals.net) If they offer vegetarian options without pasta or bread--something like a salad or grilled veggies, your lean protein will be the perfect addition.

If your trip is by bus, train or car you have less liquid and space limitations, but all of these are still things to keep in mind. Especially on a road-trip, don't hurt yourself by thinking that a fast food drive through is your only option! Plan time to stop for meals and try a small family restaurant where you can order something healthy and filling (and something that won't make you end up in a gas station bathroom feeling sick!) You'll have a better experience and be healthy, and who could ask for more?