Summer is almost here. If you are planning to head off the island on holiday over the next few months, there’s a few things you should consider.

Going on holiday can really assist in reducing your stress levels, but it can also hinder your exercise progress.

Even those that have a regular exercise regime may find it challenging sticking with it while travelling. We all have good intentions. We pack our workout attire and it stays right there in our suitcase.

However travelling doesn’t have to completely erase your progress; it is possible to still fit exercise in and there are workouts you can do that don’t need a single piece of equipment.

Here are some tips to help you stay fit during vacation so you don’t return home with unwanted baggage.

Aim for half

Even if you are not able to fit in your normal routine while travelling, that’s OK. Aim to complete about half of what your normal fitness regime would be.

Early planning

Planning your fitness prior to your vacation will ensure that you stay on course. You can even make it easy by incorporating a walk to an event instead of driving. Be sure to find out what type of workout facilities are near your accommodations as well.

Look out for day passes

If you are staying in a hotel that doesn’t provide a gym, then enquire at any nearby fitness centres for their rates. Most of them offer out of town visitors passes that are minimal, sometimes even free.

Don’t forget your resistance bands

These are the perfect lightweight travel items and you only need to pack one or two. They take up very little space and can offer a full-body workout.

Eat local

Plan to enjoy some special local meals without going too wild. And don’t be afraid to ask when you go out if it’s possible for them to prepare your favourite dishes with a few healthy changes.

Get creative

Try changing your holiday vibe into an opportunity to find new, fun ways to exercise instead of doing the same old routine. Try cycling, water sports, hiking, beach volleyball or any fun activity you enjoy. Workouts don’t always have to be in a gym. The above activities count towards your workouts, too!

Prepare healthy snacks

If your trip includes a lot of time on the road or on a plane, make sure to pack some healthy snacks so you aren’t forced to eat whatever the airlines, gas stations or fast food restaurants are offering.

Lastly, don’t get hammered every night

Try and choose your nights. Just like you don’t workout every single day, you shouldn’t drink daily, either.

So if you do consume alcohol, try to have your big night out just before you have an off day for exercise. During the rest of your holiday, try and hydrate with water and sugar-free electrolytes.

Have a great holiday and B-Active For Life!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook