Insights on balanced living and family travel with Andrea Hannemann
In our latest Insight Series, we spoke with Andrea Hannemann, wellness influencer, mom of four, and author of the best-selling cookbook, Plant Over Processed. Based in Hawaii, Andrea shares what island living has taught her about maintaining a balanced lifestyle, sustainability, and connecting with nature. She also shares how she instills these values in her children, both at home and when traveling. Don’t miss Andrea’s refreshingly simple tips on how to stay balanced and carefree when traveling with your little ones!
Congrats on your best-selling book, Plant Over Processed! How has your approach to healthy living evolved in the last 5 years since you published?
Thank you so much! Honestly, it’s evolved a lot — and I think that’s the beauty of wellness: it’s not about perfection, it’s about growth. I’ve learned to let go of rigidity and embrace simplicity. I still believe deeply in whole, real foods, but now I also focus more on ease, joy, and flexibility — especially with four kids. Health isn’t just what’s on your plate — it’s also your mindset, your environment, your energy.
Have your travels around the world influenced the way you cook and eat now?
Absolutely. Travel opens your eyes to how deeply connected food is to culture and community. I’ve fallen in love with the simplicity of ingredients in places like Italy, the bold flavors of Southeast Asia, and the vibrant freshness of tropical islands. It’s inspired me to get more creative but also more intentional — using fewer ingredients, but better ones.
How has living in Hawaii shaped how you think about food and travel?
Living in Hawaii teaches you to slow down and to respect the land. You can feel how connected people are to the ʻāina, and that deeply influences how we eat — more local, more seasonal, less waste. It’s also made me realize that you don’t need to go far to experience beauty and adventure — sometimes the most magical moments are right in your backyard.
As a mother of four, what’s your top travel tips for families with babies and young kids?
Pack light… but smart. Bring the comforts that matter (snacks, versatile clothing , noise machines!), and don’t overcomplicate the rest. Kids don’t need 10 outfits (but definitely a change on hand for emergencies)— they need rest, play, and connection. Also: give yourself grace. Travel days can be messy, but those are the moments that become your favorite stories later. To be completely real — my mantra is keep expectations real low while aiming high. Haha. We’ve had plenty of flights where there is no resting going on but it’s soooo worth it!
"Kids don’t need 10 outfits (but definitely a change on hand for emergencies)— they need rest, play, and connection"
Traveling can sometimes disrupt routines, how do you maintain healthy eating habits for your family while on the road?
We keep it simple and consistent but also indulge too: smoothies, fruits, easy proteins, and big salads and fresh sandwiches and burritos- when we can. I always pack a mini pantry of essentials — things like protein powder, greens powder, and healthy snacks. And then I let go of the guilt. Sometimes a memorable treat (or 2 or 3) in a new place is healthy — because it’s joy.
Has your approach to travel evolved as your family has grown?
1000%. When it was just me and my husband, we could wing it and bounce around all over. With four kids, planning ahead helps a lot — and we like to post up somewhere and really get to know an area instead- but we still leave room for spontaneity. I’ve also learned to tailor trips to our kids’ ages and needs. It’s less about seeing everything and more about being together and new adventures. Quality over quantity.
Sustainability is a big part of your platform, what are some easy, everyday swaps families can make to travel more eco-friendly?
Start with reusables — water bottles, utensils, snack bags. Shop local when you can. And try to support eco-conscious accommodations. We also talk to our kids about respecting nature wherever we go — leaving a place better than we found it.
What are your family’s go-to essentials when packing for a big trip?
snacks (I love packing baked Korean sweet potatoes wrapped in tin foil), trail mix and sliced fruits and veggies, pretzels and a premade burrito. Also, supplements like magnesium, electrolytes, greens and protein powder, and my camera. We also always bring a lightweight stroller (a doona will change your life!), a travel-friendly speaker for good music, lullabies and white noise at night, and a mini first-aid kit (because… life).
What values or life lessons have you learned from traveling that you want to share with your kids?
That people are beautiful and different is something to celebrate. That the world is big and your heart should be, too. That kindness and curiosity matter more than anything. And that adventure doesn’t have to be far away — it’s about your attitude, not just your location.
If you could give one piece of advice to new parents just starting out, what would it be?
You’re doing better than you think. You don’t have to do it all, and you definitely don’t have to do it like anyone else. Trust yourself. Love your babies. And don’t forget to love you, too.
Andrea Hannemann is the author of national bestselling cookbook, Plant Over Processed, a health and wellness expert, and a mother of four. You can stay connected with Andrea through her Instagram handle @earthyandy, or her website earthyandy.com.
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