Vacations are great, but not for my waistline. How can I keep up my fitness routine away from home?

There are many ways to work out on a trip that won’t keep you locked up in a hotel gym. But you’ve got to get your head out of vacation mode and learn to recognize small opportunities to fit in some fitness. For example, try carrying your own bags when you arrive at a hotel. You’ll save in bellhop tips, and your biceps will get a workout. Next, think outside the car. Why not rent a bicycle to see the sights and burn some calories? After dinner, make sure to take a long walk (that’s not a bad idea after breakfast, either) -- it even helps you sleep better away from home. Want to fit in a regular workout, but your hotel doesn’t have a gym? Find a local health club by visiting the Web site GymTicket and typing in your zip code. Many clubs offer day passes for free or a small fee.

Expert Mark Lopez is a New York City-based certified fitness trainer.