It’s vacation season—and many travelers are on the lookout for food that’s simple, quick and easy when they’re on the road. Fast food is one option, but unhealthy choices can leave you feeling uncomfortable and low-energy.

“The key to healthy eating when you’re traveling involves planning,” says Jenny Wehmeier, Walworth County UW-Extension family living educator. Wehmeier offers some tips that will keep you eating healthy while you and your family are away from home.

– Bring your own food. While this may seem like extra work, you will be happy you made the effort. If you are traveling by plane you can bring apples, oranges, unsalted nuts, and toasted pumpkin seeds in your carry-on for snacking. Other healthy options include fresh or dried fruits and low-fat crackers. If you’re driving to your vacation destination, pack these snacks in the car where they will be accessible to the whole family.

–In your hotel room, your options can be limited because you may not always have access to a refrigerator or freezer. However, most hotels have an ice machine. If you can bring a cooler, pack pre-made sandwiches with deli meat or hummus and place them in your cooler for a quick lunch or dinner. Add lettuce, tomato, and condiments afterwards or your sandwich will be soggy. You can also pack items like fresh fruit, yogurt, applesauce, veggies and dip in your cooler. These are healthy choices that will also help lower the cost of your vacation because you won’t be paying to eat out at every meal.

–If you can’t bring a cooler you can always go to a sandwich shop or grocery store deli. Purchase a sandwich with whole wheat bread, low-fat meat or a vegetarian sandwich and light condiments. Skip the cheese to decrease fat and calories.

–Obviously, vacation is a time for family fun and relaxation and you may decide to eat out and try the local cuisine in new places. If you do decide on fast food, choose something low-fat and low-calorie (most fast food establishments have their nutrition facts available upon request.) However, the options may start to seem limited after a few visits.

–Remember that a green leafy salad is always a good choice at a fast-food restaurant and you can add a low-fat dressing or lemon juice for more flavor. Choose vegetables that are high in fiber, and even add grilled chicken or black beans to get your protein for the day. Soups with a water-based broth that contain vegetables and beans are a healthy choice in a restaurant as well. These types of meals will provide the nutrients you need, while not leaving you feeling too full or tired. You can use these tips when you’re back home, too!

–Keep yourself hydrated, especially if you’re traveling in an area with high temperatures and increased exposure to the sun. Water bottles are handy and can be reused. A plastic or metal bottle is easy to refill and can save money. Keeping a water bottle nearby also means you will be more likely to drink water throughout the day. If you want an alcoholic beverage while on vacation, order a glass of red wine instead of having a mixed drink or a beer. It has fewer calories and can be sipped slowly.

“Going on vacation is no excuse to abandon your healthy eating habits simply because you will be away from home,” says Wehmeier. “Start your day in a healthy way wherever you are, and you will be more likely to make healthy choices throughout the day.”