July is a very popular month for family vacations. It's a great time to enjoy family and friends. Is it also a great time to take a break from your healthy lifestyle?A vacation shouldn't be an excuse to take a break from healthy eating and regular exercise. This thinking reinforces the idea that following a healthy lifestyle is drudgery, something you avoid when you are having fun. It implies your healthy lifestyle is only temporary, more like a diet that will end as soon as you reach your goal. The other problem is that getting back on track is never easy, and for many it derails all their hard work and healthy changes. So this year when you go on vacation, instead of taking a break, consider how easy it will be for you and your family to eat right and exercise when you don't have to worry about household chores, job and school responsibilities. Here are a few tips on how you and your family can stick to a healthy plan while on vacation:

1. Pack healthy snacks. Take along nuts, trail mix, pre-rinsed fruit, vegetable sticks, whole grain crackers, popcorn or pretzels. If traveling by car bring along a cooler and fill it with water, cheese sticks and yogurt cups. When flying, pack a collapsible cooler that you can use once you get to your destination.
2. Stick to regular mealtimes. By eating at regular intervals you are more inclined to make better choices, avoid overeating and prevent cravings.
3. Scope out the restaurants. Knowing what your options are before leaving home will help you to pick restaurants with healthier choices that fit your eating plan and budget.
4. Visit the local farmer's market or grocery store. When you get tired of unhealthy, expensive restaurant food, pick up some family favorite meal items that can be put together anywhere. It can be a breakfast of cereal, fruit, milk, yogurt or bagels, or perhaps sandwich fixings, vegetable sticks, and fresh fruit.
5. Stay active. Many hotels have fitness facilities, swimming pools, running/walking or hiking paths and activity classes for all family members. If going by car, bring along bikes or other sports equipment. Have fun!

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