“Are we nearly there yet?”

Issue 13
Travelling abroad with small children doesn’t need to be a nightmare. With just the right amount of preparation and planning even the bumpiest journey can go smoothly. Here is our step-by-step guide to avoiding travel traumas

Holidays should be a time for fun and relaxation but as many parents can testify even the thought of a long journey with a tetchy child is enough to send stress levels rocketing. And with new research showing that one in two mothers puts off travelling altogether it looks like things have reached crisis point.

When the only ingredients that you need for a happy and healthy holiday with your child are preparation and planning there is really no excuse to stay at home. That’s why FlyingStart has teamed up with Calpol and the Mark Warner Travel Company to bring you our top travel tips.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE:

Destination: Research your destination so that you know what to expect. Check how far away local amenities are, such as a doctor’s surgery or hospital.

Vaccinations: Does the country you are travelling to recommend or require vaccinations? If so, schedule these in for your baby in plenty of time.

Current medication: If your child is already taking medication, make sure you remember to pack sufficient supplies for the duration of the holiday.

Hot Weather: Although enjoyable, a hot climate can mean additional health risks for your little one.

Carry cool, boiled water with you at all times, to avoid the risk of your baby becoming dehydrated or suffering tummy upset. Keep your baby covered up in the shade.

Regularly apply a high factor sun cream, at least SPF 30 and make sure your baby wears a sun hat to minimise exposure to the sun.

First Aid Kit: Prepare a first aid kit containing the following: sun block (SPF30) and after-sun, an infant paracetamol product such as Calpol Infant Suspension, re-hydration sachets, insect repellent, plasters and antiseptic cream.

Remember that you cannot always purchase the same medicines or products abroad that you might find in a pharmacy at home.

Essential Items: Baby food, nappies and baby milk (if you are not breastfeeding) are all essential. To avoid having to pack these bulky items, take sufficient supplies to last you the first couple of days and then buy more when you arrive and are familiar with the local amenities.

Check beforehand that there are no problems taking these products, particularly food, into the country you are travelling to. Pack your own cot blanket and sheets though, as some hotels do not have suitable covers.

Identification / Medical History: Having your child’s medical history details with you, especially if your child is prone to allergies, is essential. Carry a recent photo of your child in your wallet.

Insurance: Remember to take out travel insurance for the whole family, including your baby.SURVIVING THE JOURNEY:

TRAVELLING BY CAR:

Pack plenty of your child’s favourite foods and drinks

Keep your hand luggage stocked with favourite toys

Plan your route beforehand and identify service stations where you can stop on the way

If possible, plan your journey around your child’s naptime

Ensure that you have necessary medicines to hand, such as travel sickness pills and a paracetamol preparation in case your child suffers from unexpected pain or fever

TRAVELLING BY AIR:

If necessary and if possible, pre-book a bassinet, which is a special area on the plane by your seat, where a cot can be safely belted in for your children below the age of two

Seat your child away from the aisle to prevent accidents happening if your child reaches out

Ensure you have packed essential items in your hand luggage - wipes, nappies, change of clothes for you and your child (in case of an accident), muslins, medicine, food and drink

If you have a small baby, avoid your child suffering from changes in cabin pressure by encouraging them to drink milk during take off and landing

Take things to keep your child occupied

WHEN YOU GET THERE:

Fire Safety: Acquaint yourself with the fire regulations and assembly points at your destination

Balcony Safety: Supervise your child at all times on any balcony

Cot Safety: Check the cot is safe

Pool safety: The sea, swimming pools and paddling pools are normally a feature of any holiday. Children can drown in only a few inches of water, so never leave your child unattended

Road Safety: The rules of the road can be quite different in some countries, so make sure you pay particular attention when crossing the road.

If you hire a car ensure that a suitable children’s car seat is provided or take one from home with you

To request a FREE copy of the Calpol / Mark Warner Holidays travel safety leaflet, please call: 01737 331 171.