Updated December 14, 2014.

Whether you travel for business or for fun, staying fit on the road is a challenge. It’s hard to find the time and it's tough to find the space and equipment to do effective weight loss workouts. But it is possible to stay in shape when you travel.

The key to maintaining good health is being prepared. Use these tips and tools to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle on the go. Each of the workout tools listed allow you to exercise in a small space and the gear is small and lightweight enough to pack in your carry-on bag.

Workout Gear to Stay Fit When You Travel

• Workout bands. These small, lightweight bands provide a strength workout that is as good (or even better) than a workout using dumbbells. Workout bands are inexpensive and easy to pack and you'll be able to do a wide range of exercises with a single set of bands.
• Travel yoga mat. I don’t know about you, but I can’t relax in my shavasana if I’m laying on a grungy hotel room floor. A travel yoga mat, like this one from Manduka, is small enough to fold up and fit in your travel bag, suitcase or purse. It makes travel yoga easier to do and much more comfortable.
• Running shoes. Seems obvious right? But you’d be surprised how often travelers forget to bring running or walking shoes on vacay. Not a runner? You can still use athletic shoes to hike stairs at the hotel, go for walks with the family, or take a Zumba class with your girlfriends. They are also handy when running through the airport to catch your flight.
• Workout apps. I have three workout apps that I absolutely love to use when I travel for work or to see family. The Nike Training app provides amazing cardio and strength workouts that can be done in a small space. iMuscle offers strength training exercises for people who have access to a weight room and The Adventures of Superstretch, provides playful workouts for kids. Each of these apps offers workouts that are brief and can be completed in hotel gyms or small rooms.

• Computer. Yep, that’s right. Your computer is an effective workout tool. Use your laptop to watch free or inexpensive online workouts.  Most sites allow you to either stream classes online or download classes onto your computer. You can choose from a wide variety of workouts to complete the workouts you need for weight loss or to maintain your level of fitness.
   
• A dose of creativity. Believe it or not, I have found some of my best workouts on the side of the road during long car trips. With a little creativity you can have fun with the family while eating well and exercising. Use my healthy tips for family vacations or come up with creative ideas of your own.

Of course none of these fitness gadgets will help to eat well or make good beverage choices while you’re traveling. When it comes to weight loss on the road, your diet will matter as much as your exercise routine. So make be careful about what you eat, don’t drink diet-busting beverages and exercise portion control at mealtime.