Running is the perfect travel workout because it requires minimal gear and can be done anywhere, weather permitting. I am up in Door County in northern Wisconsin this week, vacationing with K’s family. Luckily Door County is full of ways to stay active, and the weather has been perfect. This post includes 4 running tips for vacation and a recap of my workouts so far this week.

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1) Plan Ahead: Map My Run is a great resource to find recommended running routes across the world. For many countries, including international destinations, a search is possible by city or region. Trip Advisor is also helpful to review comments and personal experiences. I have been focusing on trail runs on this trip, since there are so many fantastic state parks in Door County.

2) Don’t Forget Your Shoes: Also, don’t forget to search the weather forecast before deciding what type of running gear to pack!

My running-related packing list includes:
-Running shoes.
-Two outfits – socks, shorts, lightweight shirt, sports bra, light hat.
–Running belt.
-Sunscreen.
-Bug spray.
–Travel packets of cold water laundry soap. 

3) Keep Safety in Mind: Ask your hotel or local travel office for advice to figure out the safest neighborhood and streets where it is best to run in your destination. Consider bringing compass, a map, and a small amount of money on a run in case you need to take a cab or train back to your hotel. This is not an issue in Door County, but this is a tip I always keep in mind running in cities. I own a travel compass to take on city trips, one that will easily fit in my running pack. I also have laminated, foldable city maps ready to go that came with travel books we purchased. 

4) Relax Your Workout Schedule: Consider leaving your headphones in your hotel room -– use running as an opportunity to experience your surroundings. I plan to squeeze in a run during morning hours when possible, before the heat of the day and vacation mode sets in. Don’t sweat it if your travel runs aren’t the fastest, best workouts. It takes approximately two weeks of rest to start losing your fitness level.

Here are my vacation workouts for the past week:

• Sunday: 4 mile run; ~15 mile bike ride
• Monday: ~20 mile bike ride; 2 mile hike {Eagle Trail} at Peninsula State Park
• Tuesday: 3.5 mile run
• Wednesday: 3.5 mile hike at Newport State Park; 2 hours kayaking
• Thursday: 45 minute early morning walk; 2 mile trail run at Peninsula State Park; 5 miles walking

Today we are taking a ferry to Washington Island, 6 miles off the tip of Door County, to bike and check out the sites. On Saturday morning we are running the Hairpin 5k race in Fish Creek, to celebrate Independence Day. There will be pie:

My favorite treat in Door County is cherry pie from Seaquist Orchards. I think it’s especially fitting for this week – have an active {and safe} 4th of July holiday!

{A similar version to this post was originally published on the NBC Chicago Stride blog in July 2014, as I was preparing for a trip to Europe.}

Check out more running posts:

• Run Wild Race Recap {Quarter Marathon} – Door County, Wisconsin
• August Running Challenge