Tips for travelling with toddlers

As the festive season kicks off, many families are gearing up for long-awaited holidays. Travelling with toddlers, however, requires careful planning to ensure both their health and happiness are prioritised.

These tips, provided by Affiliated Health will help you prepare for a stress-free journey with your little ones.

In a statement provided by Affiliated Health, one of the biggest challenges when travelling, especially on planes, is maintaining hydration.

“Low cabin humidity can quickly lead to dehydration in toddlers. Affinity Health recommends offering small sips of water regularly.

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“Breastfeeding more often or giving formula-fed babies extra water can also help,” said the health insurance agency in Johannesburg. Disrupted sleep schedules are common when travelling and can make toddlers cranky and lower their immunity.

“To avoid meltdowns, try to stick to familiar bedtime routines and bring along comfort items like a favourite blanket or toy.

“Parents also need to be prepared for minor illnesses or injuries by packing essential items. Include fever-reducing medication, a thermometer, motion sickness remedies, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and teething relief.

“Sunscreen and child-safe insect repellent are must-haves for sunny or tropical destinations. Consulting your paediatrician before travelling can help tailor your kit to specific destinations,” read the statement.

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New cuisines are a highlight of travel, but safety is paramount when feeding toddlers. Affiliated Health advised parents to avoid raw or undercooked foods and stick to peelable fruits and vegetables.

Street food should be freshly prepared, and bringing trusted snacks can be a lifesaver when local options aren’t toddler friendly. “Ensure your toddler’s vaccinations are up to date and consult your doctor about additional immunisations for your destination, such as those for hepatitis A or typhoid.

To combat exposure to germs, pack hand sanitiser and wipes, and encourage regular handwashing, particularly before meals. Long car rides or flights can lead to motion sickness

“Offer light snacks, avoid large meals before travelling, and have ginger-flavoured crackers on hand. For severe cases, consult your doctor for suitable remedies,” read the statement.

By planning ahead and focusing on health and comfort, you can make holiday travel with toddlers a joyful experience, filled with precious memories rather than stress.