Pack light, thanks to Nike Pro available at Zappos

If you’re going to write about fitness, you kind of have to partake in it – for me that means especially while traveling. It’s kind of like if you’re going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk adage we learned as kids.

Recently I’ve fallen in love with Zappos.com, which helps me walk the walk that much better. It has become one of my go-to performance apparel shopping destinations, and I love the next day shipping (hi, procrastinate much) and returns 365 days a year. Another cool thing I love about Zappos.com and their next day shipping is that just in case I forget to pack certain workout gear, I can have it shipped directly to my hotel and not really miss any go-time.

Although fitness (especially hiking and running in parts of the country I’m experiencing for the first time, which is one of the most freeing things I’ve ever experienced) is a huge part of my travel, I can’t let it take up a ton of space in my luggage. The more I travel, the more I see the benefits of carry-on luggage – allowing for a quicker exit, less chance of losing bags and avoiding baggage fees. So space is limited.

I may be able to forego that extra pair of Hudson Jeans, but skimping on workout apparel isn’t an option. My favorite travel workout outfit is part of the Nike Pro Five-Inch Short ($30) available on Zappos.com. The shorts take up very little space and are great for running as they don’t ride up but are still flattering in case you stop in town to shop or grab a coffee. These shorts are also great because they come in a myriad of colors, which I’m always a sucker for.

On really hot days I pair them with this Nike lightweight sports bra ($30 | shown in picture), which provides just enough coverage and support. The other great part about this Nike line for travel is that you can wear them for multiple days. Since they are so lightweight and feature Dry-FIT technology, you can easily wash/rinse them in your hotel room after a run and let them dry in the bathroom, ready for tomorrow’s workout.

I know everyone wants to be super fashionable while traveling and working out, but sometimes it pays to be realistic. Trust me, it took me years to learn this lesson, just don’t tell my mother. Luckily with this line and all the bright color options, you can be both fashionable and realistic.

*I recommend washing Nike products inside out (as most fitness apparel should) – it keeps the swoosh in perfect form longer, although sometimes a retro look is pretty awesome.

For shoes, I love the New Balance minimalist shoe for travel. I don’t recommend them for 26.2-mile runs (I said that as if I’d actually ran that distance all at once…), but for a hike or easy 3 – 7miler, they are perfect and unfathomably light – again perfect for travel.

Even The Blonde Side makes a smart move from time-to-time, like buying Nike and other athletic products on Zappos.com.

Pro Tip for getting your workout on while traveling: If you’re staying at a hotel, send them a message via social media or ask the concierge about workout facilities. Many times if there isn’t a gym on-site, the hotel offers complimentary guest passes to nearby gyms (NYC is big on this), and you just might get connected with a fitness instructor the hotel works with often. Kimpton Hotels are also known for providing running maps with runs around the city that range from 1 to 10 miles.