December 30, 2012

Top Six Family Travel Tips

Many will be escaping the British weather in favour of a far flung destination. Keeping your family safe whilst abroad is essential, as accidents and illness can easily ruin a getaway. Travelling to distant and unfamiliar destinations often means there is a greater risk of incidents occuring, though following simple guidelines can help prevent many more common issues. Follow our 6 top tips and ensure your family stay safe and happy whilst getting some winter sun!

6. Do Your Research

Before you jet off, look into and make note of local hospitals and health centers as well as key phrases in case you are in an area where few people speak English. As well as researching travel insurance companies, you should also look into the procedure for making holiday illness claims. If anything does go wrong when you are away, it will be quicker and easier for you to start seeking a claim, if necessary.

5. Watch Your Diet

The tap water in many developing countries can pose huge dangers, so never drink or brush teeth with water from tap and instead stick with the bottled variety. If eating out, avoid salads and stick with cooked dishes which are piping hot when served. Raw and undercooked meat and eggs should be avoided to prevent upset stomachs and unpasteurised milk and soft cheese should also be off the menu.

4. Sun Safety

Everyone knows the dangers of prolonged sun exposure and the links with skin cancer. Children’s skin is especially sensitive to the sun, so little ones should always be closely monitored. Serious sunburn can have a severe impact upon health, though even mild burning – especially if suffered by kids – can be uncomfortable and upset anyone’s beach break. Keep out of direct sun during the hottest part of the day (11am-3pm), apply a high factor sunscreen which is water and sand resistant, and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.

3. Stock up Pre-departure

Many medications and toiletry items which are widely available in the UK may be difficult to come by in far flung destinations. If your child has a medical condition or suffers from allergies always take an over-supply of their necessities, as well as detailed prescription info.

2. Stress-free Flying

An exotic holiday with the family means a long-haul flight with kids. Make sure the whole family is clued up on how to stay healthy whilst flying: observing a few guidelines should make flying a little more comfortable and ease any stress. Avoid caffeine and alcohol and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, stretch your legs every hour and consider travel sickness pills or wrist bands.

1. Don’t get Bugged!

Mosquito bites can be irritating, though these bugs also carry nasty diseases. Make sure you buy anti-malarial tablets in the UK, if necessary, and pack plenty of insect repellent with a high deet content. You may prefer to use a child-friendly variety for kids who have more sensitive skin.