Going on Holiday with Children
Going away at home or abroad with children needn't be daunting - it just needs some prior preparation and consideration about where you go and what you take with you! Don't think your baby is too young to travel, children can rise to the occasion in ways we wouldn't think possible. We've put together some hints and tips, and a checklist to get you started when traveling with little ones.
Before You Go
Check that your hotel has facilities for and welcomes children.
Things to check for in your hotel:
- Creche
- A place to take children for early supper
- A children's menu
- High chairs and cots
- Playroom
- Outdoor play area with attendants or kids club
- Safe beaches nearby
It is worth checking the above (depending on the age of your child/children) as this will help to ensure that your children are happy, which will mean you have a good holiday too!
Vaccinations
Well ahead of your holiday, take advice on vaccinations or immunizations that may be required as regulations change frequently all over the world. Some vaccinations need a long lead time and others - such as hepatitis - need 4 to 6 weeks between injections or may not be able to be given with other vaccinations; you can find information at your doctors or travel agent. You will also need a vaccination certificate and may also need water sterilisation tablets.
Food
It's a good idea to introduce children to new foods at home so you can determine their likes and dislikes well in advance of your holiday. If your children like experimenting with food there is no reason not to let them try the local food as long as it is well cooked and clean.
Air Travel
If given warning, most airlines are able to make special facilities available to children. Try to book a flight time that won't be too crowded. If you have a baby - ask for a bulk head seat, which have special folding tables for moses baskets or carrycots.
- Aim to reach the airport early enough to avoid a long check-in queue
- Your changing bag can be used as your flight bag - pack your travel documents in a separate bag/pouch inside your changing/flight bag. Take spare nappies, spare clothing, wipes, snacks and drinks
- Consider carrying your baby in a sling so your hands are free. Kari Me Baby Carrier, from £40.95 can be used for a baby or toddler.
- Change your baby's nappy just before getting on the plane
- Take a folded pushchair on the plane - the cabin crew will store this for you and return it as you get off
- Babies and children feel some pain during take off and landing so take a little treat or a comforter for them to suck to equalize ear pressure
Safe Sunbathing
Children can get heatstroke in a very short space of time. It normally occurs when the nape of the neck is exposed to the sun. The heat interferes with the temperature regulating centre in the brain.
If your baby is under 6 months, never expose her to strong, direct sun for any length of time. Keep her as cool as possible, with light clothing that covers her whole body. If spending the day on the beach, a KoolSun Shelta UV Protector Tent can provide protection - or ensure she is completely under a sunshade. If possible, try to place the pushchair or travel cot where there is a light breeze as this will cool your baby's skin.
Children sweat more than adults in hot weather so always ensure you have enough water available for your children. Children should wear sunscreen on all exposed skin all the time they are outdoors - this should be an absolute minimum of factor SP15 or above for a toddler and factor 30 and above for a baby. Sun Sense Toddler Milk Suncream, from £7.99 is an SPF 50 and protects baby and toddler from the suns harmful rays. All other parts of the body should be covered with clothing / UV protection swimwear - see Summer & UV Clothing for ideas.
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