Yes, exploring the world solo is an incredible experience, but what you eat along the way can truly enhance your journey and maintain your health. Don't skip meals while you are enjoying the fun adventures...
Instead of letting meal times become a budget-busting headache or a nutritional nightmare, let's go over some key points on enjoying delicious, healthy food that keeps you energized and feeling your best.
Here are some practical tips for solo travellers looking to eat well, spend smart, and sleep soundly on their adventures:
1. Your Rise and Shine Right: Smart Breakfast Choices
Starting your day with a nutritious breakfast sets the tone for a fantastic day of exploration.
While that tempting iced donut and quick cup of coffee might offer a quick sugar rush, it won't sustain you for long. You'll likely find yourself hungry and low on energy before mid-morning.
Your best bet is a balanced breakfast, and if you're staying in a hotel, take full advantage of the complimentary continental breakfast.
These packed full yummy buffets often offer a fantastic array of options: whole-wheat bread for toasting, a variety of cereals (opt for whole grain and lower sugar options), fresh fruit, yogurt, and sometimes even oatmeal.
Skip the sugary pastries (*or just have one) and load up on fibre, protein, and vitamins to fuel your morning activities. Enjoy a side of fruit with your toast or mix it into your yogurt or oatmeal. Don't forget to hydrate with water, juice (in moderation), or the proverbial tea/coffee.
If you choose to eat out, the same principles apply for a healthy start of the day. Look for options that include whole grains, protein (like eggs), and fruits or vegetables. A balanced breakfast will keep you feeling full and focused on enjoying your solo explorations.
2. Lunch: Your Midday Power-Up: (Doesn’t have to be a major meal either)
Think of lunch as your opportunity to refuel and pack in the energy for an active afternoon. Many restaurants offer lunch specials that can be more budget-friendly than dinner options, often featuring similar dishes at a lower price.
Don't hesitate to ask your hotel concierge or locals for their favourite lunch spots. This is a great way to discover authentic local flavours and enhance your travel experience.
Just like breakfast, aim for a balanced meal at lunch, but keep it light. Start with a refreshing salad (be mindful of creamy dressings) or a fruit cup.
Main-course salads with lean protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas can be a wonderfully filling and healthy choice. Be adventurous and try local specialties, but don't be afraid to ask about ingredients if you have any dietary restrictions.
Treat yourself to a small dessert if you like – a small scoop of ice cream or a piece of fruit can be a satisfying way to end your midday meal. Remember, you'll likely be burning those calories with your afternoon activities!
3. Smart Snacking: Your On-the-Go Fuel. But healthy Snacks Mind you
As a solo traveller, having a well-stocked snack bag is a game-changer especially if you are going hiking trails. Those "just in case" moments when hunger strikes between meals are inevitable. Instead of being tempted by overpriced tourist traps, having your own snacks readily available is both economical and healthier.
Before you head out for the day, you can make a quick stop at a local grocery store. Stock up on nutritious and portable options like dried fruits, a variety of nuts and seeds, whole-grain crackers, and individual portions of peanut butter or cheese.
Keep your snack bag accessible in your daypack or backpack. These snacks will provide sustained energy and prevent you from making impulsive, less healthy choices when hunger hits.
4. Your Supper: Light and Satisfying Endings.
After a potentially larger lunch and a day of exploring, a lighter supper is often the best choice for your waistline and your sleep quality. This is another opportunity to be budget-savvy and make the most of local grocery stores.
Pick up some tasty lean deli meats, whole-grain bread, cheese slices, and your favourite fruits. Many hotels offer mini-fridges and even microwaves in their rooms – try to book one with these amenities if possible.
Preparing your own simple supper of sandwiches and fruit can be a significant cost-saver and allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes.
Enjoy your light and healthy supper in the comfort of your own room, giving you a relaxing end to a fulfilling day, but don’t eat it too late. This smart budgeting can even free up funds for that extra activity you were considering!
Bringing and Maintaining These Healthy Habits Home
Make these healthy eating methods a lifestyle habit after returning from your solo adventures, and live a healthy balanced life. (*Like The Koreans love saying: Don’t skip meals
.Many of these eating tips – like prioritizing balanced meals, packing healthy snacks, and being mindful of portion sizes – can easily be incorporated into your daily life, benefiting both your well-being and your wallet.
Love the opportunity to fuel your solo travels with delicious and nutritious food. It's an integral part of the adventure, and yes your health matters no matter where you are, or where you travel!