by Susan Kristoff

Created on: November 04, 2009   Last Updated: November 09, 2009

Your vacation is supposed to be a relaxing and re-energizing experience where you can enjoy the time off and the location where you're vacationing. But for Weight Watcher members, vacations can often include some stress. Vacations usually include fun foods prepared by others, so who knows what sorts of butters, oils, or sugars are included. It can be difficult to stick with the Weight Watcher program while on vacation, but by keeping some guidelines in mind and giving yourself permission to enjoy your vacation, eating while away can be an enjoyable experience.

Get Active

Many vacations include extra physical activity, whether its walking around a theme park, swimming in the ocean, or hiking in the mountains. Be sure to track activity points throughout the day, because it's likely you're getting more exercise than you normally do. If you're doing a lot of road travel on a trip, be sure to take breaks to stretch your legs whenever possible. Even five minutes of brisk walking is better than nothing when you're cooped in a car all day.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water is a core principle of Weight Watchers when you're at home, and it can keep you on program when you're on vacation as well. Carry a bottle of water with you wherever you go so that you always have access to fresh water. Remember to keep drinking when you're active, particularly when you are vacationing in hot climates.

Choose Filling Foods

Fill up your plate with fresh vegetables, fruits, and salads without dressings. When ordering, ask for cooked vegetables to be prepared without fat and ask for your dressings on the side. For side dishes, choose baked potato or boiled brown rice to keep yourself satisfied without blowing all of your points.

Read the Menu

Look at the wording on the menu to determine how a dish is cooked. Look for words like grilled, steamed, or broiled when checking out meat options, and avoid fried, creamed, smothered, or au gratin options. Choose vegetable or bean soups over cream soups, chowders, or bisques.

Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy Yourself

A vacation is not an every day occurrence, so allow yourself to indulge, within reason. Check out regional specialties and try out new dishes. This is a great opportunity to use your extra Points to have a special dessert or a glass of wine. A vacation is supposed to be a pleasant break from your ordinary routine, so modify your expectations a bit and enjoy your trip!

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