Healthy Eats While Traveling

In my 14+ years in the Air Force I have traveled in many capacities and each time the food situation looks a tad bit different. As someone who's job regularly includes travel I have learned many tips & tricks to ensure I am happy and fed. I am actually currently on a month long training at the AF First Sergeant Academy and thought even though traveling isn't super popular right now- and no I don't recommend you do it- it'd be a great opportunity to share. In the past I have shared these types of posts on Instagram and I get questions about how to do it and people often ask what are some ideas for eating in a hotel room. 

Pictured above are the items I brought with me in my suitcase from Ohio, below are some items that I picked up afterward to supplement for my first week at the commissary. Of course your list should meet your tastes, but I often remind people of available items that make it super easy & of course- help save money! Theres nothing wrong with going out to eat however, I do not have a vehicle at my disposal here and we are also not allowed to leave base with the current pandemic. I have access to the commissary, shopette (small gas station like store for the civilians here), and dining facility. So my options are limited and truly I enjoy making my own food. You can also supplement the meals you may get from a restaurant to add more nutrition to them, by adding fiber, vitamins, & minerals. Let me know some of your favorites below that I may not have listed, I'd love to hear them, I'm always looking for new ideas! 

applesauce squeeze packs

various bars (protein, nuts, and granola)

microwave popcorn

jerky

pita/tortillas

bread

flavored chicken/tuna packs
hummus/dip/guacamole 

deli meat
rotisserie chicken
seaweed wraps
oatmeal/cereal
granola

milled flax & chia seeds
fresh fruit or veggies (my favs are baby carrots, apples, avocado, cucumbers, bananas, grapes, oranges,  or bell peppers)

greens (I usually grab spinach or kale)

pretzels/crackers

salad dressing
whey protein

coffee/tea

energy drinks
milk 
yogurt
dried fruit
nuts
nut butter
powdered peanut butter

pickles

canned garbanzo beans 
rice microwave packs

microwavable lentil packs 
steam-able veggie bags

frozen fruit

As far as kitchen must haves: 
Pyrex container or any other microwave safe dishes- I usually bring a few in various sizes with lids

coffee cup & tumbler

water bottle
small cutting board
knife (make sure this is IN YOUR CHECKED BAGGAGE) 

silverware

All of the above items can be prepared in the microwave or simply at the table to create a balanced & healthy meal or snack to ensure you aren't eating out every meal, skipping meals, or not eating enough. I hope this serves as a helpful guide to anyone that has some travel plans in their future, thanks for reading!