Family vacations create lifelong memories—but travelling with kids can also come with unexpected challenges, from motion sickness to mid-flight meltdowns. Whether you’re hitting the road, flying across the country, or planning a weekend getaway, preparation is everything to keep your little ones safe, happy, and healthy on the go.
At Indian Crest Pediatrics, we know how overwhelming it can feel to manage the logistics and the “what-ifs” of travel. That’s why we’ve rounded up our top pediatrician-approved travel safety tips to help your trip go smoothly—from car seat safety to snacks, vaccines, and everything in between.
Here’s how to travel smart so you can focus more on fun—and less on stress.
1. Schedule a Pre-Travel Checkup (Especially for Young Children)
Before heading out, it’s a good idea to ensure your child is current on vaccinations, growth checks, and medications. If you’re travelling internationally, visiting your pediatrician becomes even more essential.
At Indian Crest Pediatrics, we offer travel health consultations to help families prepare for everything from airplane ear pressure to region-specific immunizations. Don’t hesitate to schedule a checkup if you’re travelling soon!
2. Pack a Kid-Friendly Travel Health Kit
Think of this as your mini first-aid station. Your kit should include:
- Children’s pain reliever/fever reducer (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
- Digital thermometer
- Adhesive bandages
- Hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes
- Motion sickness remedies (as approved by your doctor)
- Any prescription medications your child takes
Optional but helpful:
- Nasal saline spray
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent
Tip: Keep this kit in your carry-on or diaper bag, not checked luggage.
3. Buckle Up: Use the Right Car Seat or Booster
Whether renting a car or taking your own, protect your child in a Car seat or booster that meets current NHTSA guidelines. For air travel, check that your car seat is FAA-approved if you plan to use it on the plane.
Bonus Tip: Before your trip, practice installing your seat in a new vehicle—it may fit differently than your everyday car.
4. Use ID Bracelets or Safety Tags for Young Travelers
Consider an ID bracelet or luggage tag with your phone number for kids who may wander. This added layer of safety can be a lifesaver if you’re visiting busy airports, amusement parks, or city centers.
There are also GPS tracking devices and child locator apps for tech-savvy parents.
5. Stick to Routines When You Can
Travel disrupts schedules, but stick as closely as possible to your child’s regular meals, naps, and bedtime routines. Familiarity helps reduce anxiety and prevents exhaustion-induced meltdowns.
Bring comfort items like:
- A favorite stuffed animal or blanket
- Familiar snacks and sippy cups
- White noise machine or app for sleep
6. Hydrate Often, Especially on Planes
Air travel is dehydrating—even more so for kids. Offer water or milk regularly, especially during long flights. Nursing or bottle-feeding during takeoff and landing helps prevent ear pressure issues for babies.
Avoid sugary juices and sodas, which can upset little tummies.
7. Be Food-Safe on the Go
If you’re travelling internationally, be cautious about food safety. Stick to bottled water, avoid raw fruits and veggies (unless you peel them), and choose hot, cooked foods. For infants, bring your formula or food pouches when possible.
Always wash hands before meals or use sanitizing wipes.
8. Plan for Downtime (Don’t Overschedule!)
Kids need time to decompress, just like adults. Build quiet breaks between activities, even if it’s just 20 minutes of reading or screen time in the hotel. Overpacked days often lead to overtired kids (and cranky parents).
9. Don’t Forget Sunscreen and Bug Spray
Are you travelling somewhere sunny or tropical? Pack child-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+) and reapply every two hours, especially at the beach or pool.
Use insect repellent in areas with mosquitoes or ticks. The CDC’s guide to insect repellent use in children is a great resource.
10. Prep for Motion Sickness (Especially on Road Trips)
Talk to your pediatrician about age-appropriate medications or natural remedies if your child is prone to motion sickness. Please encourage them to look out the window in the car rather than at books or screens. Keep the vehicle calm and well-ventilated.
Snack Tip: Dry crackers, applesauce pouches, and sips of water help settle tummies.
11. Keep Kids Entertained with Screen-Free Options
Bring lightweight, no-mess activities like:
- Sticker books
- Coloring pages with twistable crayons
- Audiobooks or kid-friendly podcasts
- Magnetic puzzles or travel games
These activities can save your sanity on long trips or restaurant waiting lines.
12. Know When to Call a Doctor on Vacation
Even with preparation, kids can still get sick while travelling. If your child develops a fever, persistent vomiting, rash, or signs of dehydration, don’t hesitate to seek medical care.
Save our contact info in your phone before you leave—you can call us for advice anytime. If it’s after hours, we can help you find the nearest urgent care or ER.
Final Thoughts
Travelling with children doesn’t have to be stressful—it just takes thoughtful planning and a few pediatrician-backed precautions. Whether you’re off on a road trip or boarding your child’s first flight, a safe journey starts with a well-prepared parent.
At Indian Crest Pediatrics, we’re here to help families in Arvada and beyond feel confident and cared for—before, during, and after your travels. Need travel vaccines, motion sickness guidance, or help packing your child’s medication? We’ve got you covered.
Visit us to schedule a pre-travel checkup, or ask us your travel health questions today. Safe travels!