For some reason, the airport used to be like a caloric black hole for me. I would tell myself that calories and fat grams didn’t exist in the terminal. While I get the temporary satisfaction of McDonald’s french fries or an ice cream sundae, I usually end up feeling lethargic and full. I recently adopted a new plan to help break this pattern by making smarter decisions and planning ahead a little more. Here is an overview of my strategy.
BEFORE THE AIRPORT:
-Eat a small snack or meal at home before you leave. If you end up waiting in long lines for check-in or security, at least you will have a little fuel in your body. My favorite picks? A sandwich, pasta, soup or fruit (apples and bananas).
-I grab an empty plastic or stainless steel water bottle and throw it in my carry-on bag for filling after I pass through security (so I adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rules for liquids).
AT THE AIRPORT:
-If you arrived at the airport early, use it as an opportunity to walk around and get some exercise in before the forced sitting begins. During this time, either buy bottled water or use the water fountain to fill-up the plastic or stainless steel container you brought with.
-In search of a meal? Try to find a light yet filling combination like a green salad with grilled chicken, a healthy sandwich with a cup of soup or another low-fat option.
-In more of a snack mood? I eat six small meals throughout the day and like to continue this pattern during travel too (which can be challenging but is worth the effort!). Instead of a larger items, I’ll try to find a fruit cup, yogurt parfait, air-popped popcorn or frozen yogurt.
-I always have an emergency supply of snacks in my bag. I can’t travel without Luna Bars, Fiber One Peanut Butter bars and Planter’s Trail Mix.
ON THE AIRPLANE:
-These days, you never know whether your in-flight meal consists of a bag of peanuts or a full meal (yes, they still exist—check out Continental Airlines). Check your airline’s website or your air itinerary for what the meal policy is. If you do have an option, do know that you can easily request a special meal from a list of over fifteen choices including low-fat, low-calorie, low-sodium or vegetarian, among others. Another perk of ordering a special meal: your food comes out first!
-If you find a good ‘grab and go’ option in the terminal, feel free to bring it on-board. Sandwiches work great in this situation.
-Also have items from your emergency snack supply in hand.
What are your airport staples? What snacks do you pack in your bag? Post them here to share with other readers.
Written by Kristina, DIWYY founder. Email her at [email protected]
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Great advice! I like to pack almonds and apples from home–the airport food is so expensive that I get grumpy when I buy snacks there. I’ve also started getting tomato juice as the free drink on the plane–it’s a healthy snack in itself!