The winter holidays bring joy, laughter, and cherished family moments, but they also coincide with flu season. Ensuring your family’s health while traveling is crucial for an enjoyable holiday experience. Here are some family travel tips from Pediatric Urgent Care providers to keep your family safe and healthy this season.
Pack Smart: Essential Travel Items
When preparing for your holiday travels, consider adding a few key items to your packing list to safeguard against illness.
Start with hand sanitizer
This compact solution is a must-have for keeping hands clean, especially in crowded places like airports or public transport. Opt for a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to effectively eliminate germs. A travel-sized bottle fits easily into your bag or pocket, making it convenient for quick access.
Note: Hand sanitizer is not recommended for children under 12 months, but it’s essential for older kids and adults—especially after touching shared surfaces like handrails and escalators.
Keep Tissues Within Reach
Another essential item to include in your travel kit is tissues. The winter months often lead to sniffles, so having tissues on hand is not only considerate but vital for maintaining hygiene while traveling. If you or your child has a runny nose, cough, or sneeze, tissues can help contain germs and keep your surroundings clean. Plus, fellow travelers will appreciate your proactive approach rather than seeing kids use their hands on shared surfaces. Always pair tissues with hand sanitizer for extra protection. Keep a pack in your carry-on for easy access throughout your journey.
Hydration Is Key
Staying hydrated while traveling is crucial, especially during long car rides or flights. Dehydration can leave you feeling fatigued and more susceptible to illness. It’s easy to reach for caffeinated beverages or sugary drinks, but these choices can worsen dehydration. Instead, pack refillable water bottles for each family member. Having access to fresh water not only keeps everyone hydrated but also helps you save money on drinks during your travels. Remember, staying hydrated is essential for maintaining a strong immune system and enjoying your holiday to the fullest!
Additional Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Journey
Apart from the essentials, consider packing a few more items to ensure a smooth and pleasant travel experience for your family.
Layered Clothing
Winter weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is a smart way to stay comfortable. Layers allow you to adjust to varying temperatures in airports, airplanes, and destinations.
Healthy Snacks
Bring along nutritious snacks like fruits, nuts, or granola bars to keep energy levels up and avoid the temptation of unhealthy options at vending machines or airport kiosks.
Entertainment
Keep the kids entertained with books, puzzles, or electronic devices loaded with age-appropriate games and movies. This can make long waits or flights more bearable and enjoyable for everyone.
Plan for Rest
Travel can be tiring, so make sure to schedule breaks and downtime. This could be as simple as a short walk during layovers or a quiet moment at a rest stop.
For more family travel tips and insights on health safety while traveling, check out our partner clinic, The Youth Clinic’s blog, “Vacation Health Safety: Family Travel Tips,” authored by Urgent Care provider, Chauna Scanga, PA-C.
Reliable Support When You Need It
As you embark on your holiday adventures, remember that Pediatric Urgent Care of Northern Colorado is open 365 days a year (including holidays) to support you with any unexpected health concerns. We are dedicated to providing exceptional urgent care services for your family’s health and well-being. Visit our website for walk-in hours and location details.