Travel Fit Tip: Packing Healthy Snacks

Travel Fit Tip: Always pack healthy snacks, regardless of the duration of your trip.

The easiest way to avoid the fast food binge is to avoid the situation that causes it. Personally, if I'm hungry and surrounded by junk food, I am powerless to avoid it. So, when I pack my business suit, I also pack healthy snacks and meal alternatives that travel well.

I've successfully used all of these on trips of up to five days, even when a refrigerator isn't available:

• Raisins, apples, oranges, pears
• Bananas
• Dried fruit—Avoid brands loaded with extra sugar.
• Meal replacement bars—Avoid "candy bar" styles and opt for something with more substance; this may be your only dinner!
• Dry cereal—Look for whole grain options, with no added sugar
• Carrots, celery—A good choice if you know you'll need a snack or meal substitute on your first day traveling.

Look through your pantry to see if some of your favorite foods might be candidates. Double-check the label before you make your selections, and avoid high calorie, high sugar items like breakfast bars. You can use these as a last resort, but chances are you will be only helping your wallet, not your waistline.

Be sure to pack your items in carry-on so that you will have them when you need them. Plan the amount of food to match your trip duration, and be prepared for day trips as well.