We know all too well that attempting to remain healthy whilst travelling can be a bit of a struggle. Don’t get me wrong, I believe that holidays are a time for indulgence, and I challenge myself to conquer the breakfast buffet as much as the next person.

That being said, constant overindulgence will leave you feeling groggy and de-energised in no time, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll also become a little grumpy. For this reason, I try to implement minor, healthy alternatives throughout the course of my holiday, in order to maintain a little bit of normality in my body.

Here are a few tips to help you stay on track whilst on holiday:

Avoid Plane Food: This stuff is just awful. Full of chemicals, preservatives, and a whole load of sodium, pre-packaged plane food is enough to leave anyone feeling unwell. Instead, find a more healthy option within the airport terminal to take on the plane with you. I tend to team a wrap or salad with a pot of fresh fruit and some nuts to snack on throughout the journey. If you’re really organised, another great option is to prepare your own food at home in advance.

Be Prepared: I’m the kind of person who eats a meal, and then gets hungry two-three hours later, whilst my family/friends are still full. To avoid any hunger-related meltdowns, pack snacks in your handbag/rucksack; this way, you’ll never be caught off guard. I tend to opt for something protein-based, as these snacks will keep you fuller for longer. My favourites are Grenade Carb Killa or Quest protein bars, and Upbeat smoothies.

If You’re Going to Workout, Do it in the Morning: I’ve never been a fan of training on an empty stomach, so on holiday is the only time you’ll catch me in the gym pre-breakfast. It’s easy to tell yourself that you’ll squeeze in an afternoon workout, but the likelihood is, these plans will crumble. You won’t want to drag yourself away from the pool, and the pre-dinner drinks will be calling your name. Get up and get it done. Besides, what could be better than working out and then refuelling with a killer breakfast buffet? (arguably, the best feature of any holiday).

Be Cocktail Savvy: We all love a good piña colada, but with a similar calorie count to a light meal, it’s not an ideal drink of choice to have regularly. Although cocktails taste damn good, they tend to be full of sugar (and spice, and all things nice. I know, they’re hard to resist). Have a few, of course, but the trick really is moderation. I’m not saying don’t drink at all, but why not try switching up some of your cocktails for a vodka with soda and fresh lime? It’s a tasty, light and refreshing alternative, just minus (almost) all of the nasty stuff in those sugar-laden cocktails.

Stay Hydrated: When spending time in the sunshine, it’s absolutely crucial that you’re taking on enough water. Dehydration impedes your body’s ability to undertake basic daily processes, and this includes metabolic function. Reduced calorie burn? No thanks, I’ll take the water. Adequate hydration will also assist your body in flushing out toxins, from the one-too-many drinks you may have consumed the night before.