Most advice about eating healthy on vacation involves buying alternate options at grocery stores and cooking some nights instead of dining out. But that assumes you’ll have access to a fridge and possibly a stove—amenities that are not present in all hotel rooms and temporary destinations.

Whether you’re staying in a hotel, camping out, or changing destinations each night, if you’re asking how to eat healthy without access to a fridge, we’ve compiled some tips for you. 

Dried goods are your friend

The keys to successful healthy travel are planning and intentional packing. When packing, load up on various snacks, like nuts and bars. Natural fruit leathers or dehydrated fruit can also provide nutrients and are great for travel. Remember, you don’t know if the stores at your destination will have the healthiest options, so the best thing to do is pack your go-tos before you leave. 

Hit up produce stands and grocery stores

Yes, many grocery store aisles contain food that needs to be stored somewhere cold, but they can also be a great source of fresh and healthy foods. Focus on fruits and snackable vegetables that keep well at room temperature. Apples, stone fruit, tomatoes, avocados, and cucumbers are great examples of food that can sit in your space for up to a week. Just make sure not to store them in front of a sunny window. 

Also, don’t underestimate the value of pre-made meals at grocery stores! Many stores have grab-and-go options that are cheaper and healthier than what you might find at a restaurant. 

Research restaurants for entrée magic

Some cities have a plethora of healthy restaurants to choose from, but if you are going somewhere a bit more remote, it’s not guaranteed that you will have exciting dining choices. If you’re stuck trying to order the healthiest thing at a place that doesn’t offer many options, what’s on your plate often feels (and looks) like an afterthought. 

This is where planning comes in. If you have time, don’t just look at a list of area restaurant names. Read their menus. You don’t have to get the salad or a sad fruit plate. Often, you should be able to find a restaurant that has a relatively healthy entrée—all you need is one. And if you decide to get your protein or healthy carbs or fats from that meal, you should be able to order something worth looking forward to.  

Maintaining a healthy diet on vacation requires thoughtful planning, especially without access to a fridge. Dried goods, smart packing, and exploring local produce and grocery stores offer nutritious alternatives. Researching restaurants beforehand ensures satisfying and healthy meal options, even in remote locations. You can enjoy a nourishing and fulfilling culinary experience with strategic choices throughout your journey.