Staying fit while living out of a suitcase sounds challenging—but it’s 100% doable. As someone who’s been on the road full-time for the past two years, I’ve learned that fitness isn’t about a gym membership or strict routines. It’s about staying consistent, adaptable, and kind to your body wherever you go.
1. Prioritize Bodyweight Workouts
One thing I quickly realized is that I can’t always rely on gyms. That’s when bodyweight workouts became my best friend. Push-ups, squats, lunges, planks, and burpees—these moves don’t need equipment and can be done anywhere, from hotel rooms to beachside parks.
Personal tip: I use a fitness app with offline workouts, perfect for when I’m in remote locations without internet.
2. Pack Travel-Friendly Fitness Gear
A resistance band, a lightweight jump rope, and a foldable yoga mat are always in my backpack. These tools barely take up space and add variety to my workouts.
Lesson learned: Once, in a tiny guesthouse in Bali, my resistance band workout saved the day when I had no room to jump or run.
3. Walk More Than You Uber
Walking not only keeps you active, but it also helps you explore new places better. I often skip taxis and choose to walk—even if it takes longer.
Example: In Rome, I clocked over 20,000 steps a day just exploring on foot (and burned off all that pasta!).
4. Use Local Resources
From public parks and hiking trails to beach workouts and outdoor gyms, many countries offer free, beautiful fitness opportunities. I’ve done sunrise yoga in Thailand and joined free bootcamps in Australia.
5. Stick to a Morning Routine
Waking up early to stretch, move, or do a 15-minute circuit helps set a healthy tone for the day.
My ritual: 10 minutes of yoga, followed by 20 jumping jacks and 2 minutes of meditation—it’s simple, but grounding.
6. Don’t Neglect Nutrition
Fitness isn’t just exercise—it’s what you eat too. I try to stick to local, fresh foods and limit processed snacks. I also carry protein bars and multivitamins when I know my diet might take a hit.
Reality check: You will indulge while traveling, and that’s okay. Just find balance again the next day.
7. Make Movement a Lifestyle
Whether it’s dancing at a local event, kayaking, biking, or just stretching during long flights—movement is a mindset.
Final Thoughts
Staying fit while traveling full-time isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. I’ve missed workouts, eaten too many croissants, and spent lazy days binge-watching shows in hotel rooms. But I always come back to my routine because I value how movement makes me feel—strong, clear-headed, and energized.
If you’re a full-time traveler too, just start small, stay flexible, and remember: your body is your home.