It’s nearly summer and some of you might be planning a British road trip. Whether this is for a staycation, visiting family or a trip to the beach, it’s easy to neglect our health and well-being on long car journeys. Long hours spent sitting, irregular mealtimes, and limited healthy options at garages can take a toll on our bodies.
However, with a little planning, it’s possible to maintain healthy habits. So read on for 5 healthy road trip habits you can put in place.
1. Plot out your route
Before hitting the road, take some time to plan your journey. Plot out rest stops, meal breaks, and potential activities along the way. Research healthy dining options and supermarkets where you can stock up on nutritious snacks. Having a rough plan can help you stay organised and ensure you don’t end up settling for unhealthy fast food out of convenience.
If this sounds complicated, there’s an app for that! The Sygic travel app is a great way to find nearby attractions, restaurants and much more, meaning you can plan interesting stops along your journey.
2. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re focused on driving or sightseeing. However, the NHS recommend drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day and this includes when you’re on long trips.[1] Being properly hydrated is crucial for maintaining focus, energy levels and memory.[2]
If you find this difficult, invest in a reusable water bottle for the car within reach. If you aren’t a fan of drinking water, consider using sugar free squash to add flavour and setting reminders on your phone to ensure you’re staying on track. As always if you need reminding, there is an app for that – Daily Water Drink Reminder App is just one of many.
3. Pack Your Own Snacks
Shocking figures show that 35% of UK service stations don’t have a single fresh food retailer while 98.5% have fast food offerings.[3] Instead of relying on petrol station snacks loaded with sugar and salt, pack yourself some healthy options. Fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole-grain crackers are portable and nutritious choices that can help you stay satisfied between meals.
Avoiding sugary snacks and opting for protein-rich options will help stabilise your energy levels and keep hunger at bay. This will not only keep you healthy, but also save money on overpriced garage options.
Read our blog on nutritional tips for boosting your energy levels here.
4. Take Regular Breaks
Research shows that after two hours of driving, your skills deteriorate. You become less able to concentrate and react slower to hazards.[4] Sitting for long periods can also lead to stiffness, fatigue, and decreased circulation. Make it a point to take regular breaks to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. It’s recommended by the Brake Driver Safety Agency that you take a break at the very least every two hours. Even a brief five-minute break can make a significant difference in how you feel throughout the journey.
5. Don’t Drive Tired
Quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, especially if you’re planning on a long drive. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, even if it means adjusting your driving schedule. If you do feel tired while driving, try winding down your window and turning up the radio until you can find a safe spot to stop. Don’t stop on a hard shoulder as this is dangerous, but try and find a service station, where you can either take a nap or drink a couple of caffeinated drinks. Never drive for more than 8 hours in one day.[5]
Heading out on a road trip is an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to prioritise your health and well-being along the way. By planning, you can stay fit, alert and fully enjoy the journey ahead. So, buckle up, hit the road, and make your next road trip a journey to health and wellness. Safe travels!
Enjoyed reading this? Check out our blog on The Perfect Playlist for a Girl’s Road Trip.
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[1] https://www.sath.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/The-Importance-of-Hydration-Article.pdf
[2] https://quenchwater.com/blog/hydration-facts/
[3] The 10 best UK motorway service stations for fresh and healthy food (inews.co.uk)
[4] https://www.brake.org.uk/get-involved/take-action/mybrake/knowledge-centre/driver-fatigue
[5] https://www.theaa.com/driving-advice/safety/tired-drivers
