As the holiday season approaches, families across South Africa are gearing up for much-anticipated vacations.
However, for those travelling with toddlers, the joy of creating lasting memories comes with unique challenges.
Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, emphasised the importance of careful planning to ensure young children remain healthy and comfortable during these family excursions.
“While family trips can create wonderful memories, they also require careful planning to ensure everyone, especially young children, stays safe and well,” he stated.
For parents and caregivers gearing up to travel with toddlers, Hewlett shares some essential health tips to navigate the festive season smoothly.
1. Prioritise hydration
One of the biggest hurdles when travelling with toddlers is keeping them hydrated. Airplane cabins can be particularly dry, posing a risk of dehydration for young children.
Encourage your little one to sip water regularly during flights. For breastfeeding mothers, increasing nursing frequency can help, while formula-fed infants over six months old should be offered additional water.
2. Maintain a consistent sleep routine
Disrupted sleep schedules can lead to crankiness and discomfort in toddlers. Although it may not be possible to replicate their home sleep environment precisely, parents can bring along travel-friendly versions of comfort items like blankets or stuffed animals.
Moreover, consider downloading a white noise app on your phone to recreate a soothing sound environment.
3. Pack essential medications
Preparation is crucial for managing minor illnesses or injuries that may arise while travelling. Essential items to include are:
- Fever-reducing medication, such as infant ibuprofen.
- A digital thermometer.
- Motion sickness medication suitable for toddlers.
- Adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment.
- Teething relief if your toddler is currently teething.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent tailored for children.
Consulting your child’s paediatrician before travelling can ensure you have the correct medications and health precautions based on your destination.
4. Be mindful of food safety
Sampling local cuisine is one of the delights of travel, but ensuring food safety, particularly for toddlers, is paramount. Steer clear of raw or undercooked foods and opt for fruits and vegetables that can be peeled.
Pre-packaged snacks can also be a lifesaver when local food options may not suit your child.
5. Keep immunisations up to date
Exposure to new environments can introduce unfamiliar germs. Ensure your toddler’s immunisations are up to date, including any additional vaccines recommended for your travel destination.
Consulting your doctor prior to your trip is crucial for safeguarding your child against preventable diseases.
6. Plan for motion sickness
Long car rides or flights can lead to motion sickness in toddlers. To mitigate nausea, avoid large meals before travelling and ensure they sit in a forward-facing seat when possible.
Ginger-flavoured snacks can help settle an uneasy stomach but it’s vital to consult with your paediatrician regarding safe remedies for motion sickness in toddlers.
7. Practice good hygiene
Public spaces are often crowded with germs that can lead to illness in toddlers. Packing hand sanitiser and wipes helps maintain cleanliness in high-contact areas.
Encourage regular hand washing, especially before meal times, to reduce the risk of illness during your trip.
8. Bring familiar comfort items
Unfamiliar environments can be daunting for toddlers. Bringing along a few comfort items, such as a favourite toy or a storybook, can help alleviate anxiety and provide comfort during stressful travel instances.
9. Be flexible
Finally, travelling with toddlers requires a dose of flexibility and patience. Recognise that your child may become tired or overwhelmed — allow extra time for activities and avoid overly ambitious daily schedules.
By setting realistic expectations, you can create a more enjoyable trip for the entire family.
“With these tips, families can confidently embark on their travels, knowing they’ve prepared for the unique challenges of holiday travel with toddlers,” concluded Hewlett.
