Not all my vacations are race-cations. I do go on a vacation where there is no race and my family or friends are not runners.
The photos below were taken during a vacation with my tennis friends where I ran almost everyday.
Here’s FIVE Tips to use if you are hoping to run during a vacation:
1.Be prepared.
Bring clothes for all weather conditions.
Some winter vacations may have 80 degree temps and but many could have freezing temps!!
Fla in Feb.
and Feb in Fla!!
2.Schedule your runs.
If you leave it to chance, it won’t happen.
I often have to run in my tennis clothes
and then play tennis in my running shoes!
3.Be flexible.
Sometimes other persons’ needs or desires will come before your running.
I definitely have to be more flexible when traveling with my hubby. (Maybe that’s why we don’t travel together often lol).
4.Find a scenic route.
Pretty views make all the difference.
Sunrises are my particular favorite.
5.Lower your expectations.
Distance & speed goals will probably not happen.
Just RUN for FUN.
Can anyone guess where I am here?
Bonus Tip. (Thanks to Erica for reminding me about this) If you are not familiar with the area, sign up for a Running Tour
It’s the best way to see the city and get your running done at the same time.
during a running tour of Central Park (NYC)
or ask for recommendations (from the hotel concierge or local running store) for a safe route to run.
running in a park on the outskirts of Paris
Happy Running! Do you run when you go on vacation? Any tips to add? Please share.
Welcome to Fit Friday Five! Please join the hosts Me (My First 5K and More), Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida
and add your link below:
My First 5K and More... 
I love running while traveling! It is the best way to explore a new area and see things from a different perspecitve
LikeLike
I agree. You can see things while running that you can’t when you drive. If I were alone on vacation, I would run even more.
LikeLike
I also love running with on vacation. Like you said, there are ZERO expectations…I don’t think about pace or distance. Oftentimes, my available “running” time is limited, and I’m not usually alone when I travel, so I don’t expect my running to dictate the schedule.
LikeLike
Yup I think if you are a runner, it just adds fun to your vacation.
LikeLike
Great tips! I love to run on vacation. I would say, scout out safe routes and look for meet ups. In big cities, consider meeting up with a running club or going on a running tour. I’m leading some now in Chicago! I’ve taken them in Rome and Athens. It’s a great way to see a place and meet a local to ask all of your questions!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes on all of these. I love running tours. I’ve taken one in Denver and NYC. When I am in a hotel in an area that I do not know, I always ask the hotel concierge to recommend a safe route.
These would be tips 6 & 7 lol
LikeLike
It’s been so long since I’ve been on vacation that it’s hard to remember… but yes, I always like to run. The best thing I would say is to do it first thing in the morning. Otherwise the day gets busy and you may not have the chance. I love Erica’s idea of a running tour! I’m going to look into that.
LikeLike
Running Tours are really great. Best way to visit a new place.
And I agree, first thing in the morning is best.
LikeLike
awesome tips Darlene! when I run on vacation I never ever am going for speed! Though I have to say if I’m away for a while I will see if it’s possible to get a 1 or 2 week membership to a local gym so I can still follow my training (if I’m training for something). But Ron and I generally check out the area when we arrive, look at google maps, find parks, or even look for running groups (like we did in Denmark – and that group was super welcoming of us!).
Running and seeing the world – a perfect marriage!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I totally agree. I wish I had time and money to travel more.
LikeLike
I usually do run on vacation, but I didn’t this week. Just wasn’t feeling it. Did a lot of walking though.
Most of the time I wing it, and I neve schedule it in!
LikeLike
I have to schedule it to fit it in but I can be flexible. Sometimes it doesn’t happen.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I do run when I’m on vacation and these are all great tips! I’ve never taken a running tour – I’ll have to remember that option in the future.
LikeLike
I always search for good running routes prior to leaving for my vacation. It’s the best way to explore a new area!
LikeLike
I love running on vacations! My husband is a runner too so we used to always run together when we traveled. I like to get up early and get it done before starting the day.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so lucky to be married to a runner.
LikeLike
I love asking for route recommendations while on vacation. Sometimes it doesn’t pan out, but when it does, it is awesome! I also Google “best places to run in…” I like to find rail trails, bike paths, etc. That way, I don’t have to worry about traffic on unknown roads.
The only thing about running in Colorado when we visit there is the lack of oxygen in the air. It bothers me more as I get older. 4 or 5 miles is about my limit there!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes. I remember how hard it was to run in that altitude.
What did we do before Google?
LikeLike
I spy the Bridge of Lions!
When I go on family vacation, the boys love to sleep in. I pop out, run, and by the time I get back to our room, they are getting ready and we can go get breakfast. Winning!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Win win for sure.
And yes we were in St Augustine.
LikeLike
I would guess that one picture was taken in Denver, CO. LOL
The only vacations I have been on for years is to visit family in FL. I always pack my running gear, but rarely get to run. Maybe once the entire time I am there. I really need to do better and I love the idea of a running tour if I go other places.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yup. You got it.
Most of my vacations are limited to Florida too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I rarely run while on vacation but during my last trip to San Francisco I just went out to explore. I didn’t asked anyone but made sure to pay attention so I knew how to get back. I didn’t stay at a hotel but at an Airbnb.
LikeLike
I do try to run but sometimes it doesn’t happen. Walking is great too.
With your streak, I bet you would run now. lol
LikeLike
So true!
LikeLike