These 6 Must-Know Summer Travel Tips Will Ensure A Hassle-free Journey With Your Kids

Travelling as a parent can require some extra planning, considering you also have your little ones in tow.

With summer breaks especially, you need to put some extra thought into your plans to steer clear of any heat-related difficulties.

So, here are 6 summer travel tips that you can keep in mind to ensure that your kids stay safe and happy:

1. Plan and Book Ahead

Vacations often mean that literally every parent out there is planning a trip; in other words, you can't afford to leave anything to chance. If you want to avoid missing out on some great travel options, make sure you take the time to do your research, plan out everything, and book all aspects of your trip from your transportation to your accommodation in advance.

Prices also tend to climb up around peak travel seasons like summer, so booking everything early on can help you secure the best deals.

2. Pick a Good Date and Place

Summers mean the sweltering heat outside is going to make everyone cranky. If possible, go with places that won't have you and your kids sweating puddles every few minutes. In essence, there should be ample options for kids to have fun and stay engaged without overheating.

As a bonus tip, you can try looking for places that provide shade or are air-conditioned to ensure that everyone stays unperturbed throughout the day. Needless to say, it's a good idea to thoroughly research all your options and figure out what you would need to pack.

3. Carry Lightweight Clothing

Heat can make even the most well-behaved kids become visibly frustrated. Travel light and make sure you pack breathable fabrics so that everyone is dressed comfortably and can move around freely. If you're already going to a hot place, you're going to sweat a lot - you don't want your clothes to stick to you on top of that.

So yes, get loose-fitting light-coloured clothing.

4. Pack Games & Activities

Kids can get antsy sometimes, especially since their sleep routines get disrupted and they must feel too weighed down by the heat. It's important that you bring along their favourite toys and games to keep them engaged because it helps take their minds off of any discomfort they might be experiencing.

If you're worried about space to pack all of that, you can even consider getting a subscription to apps like Vobble that will ensure that your kids have access to enough content to listen to throughout long stretches of time.

5. Get Heat-protection Gear

Since you'll mostly be out and about in the sun while you're travelling, it's crucial that you get some heat-protection gear along. Make sunscreen, glasses, umbrellas, and hats your friends this summer to protect yourselves from the unrelenting sun! Enjoying your travel is important, but make sure that you also travel safe!

6. Ensure a Steady Supply of Water & Food

Kids get dehydrated quicker than adults. Make sure they frequently hydrate themselves with water, even if it means taking just a few sips now and then. While it can be tempting to pack a lot of sugary drinks, do remember that it can make them less inclined to drink water, so don't pack too many of them.

Additionally, do stock up on fruits and some snacks to keep hunger at bay and get energy levels up.

7. Check if your Hotel has Air-conditioning

Don’t assume that your hotel has air conditioning; check before you book. Air conditioning can be a lifesaver in the hot summer, so it is often worth it to pick an AC room, even if it means paying a little extra. If this just isn’t an option, consider getting a small travel fan. You can also carry a paper or cloth fan to provide some relief while you’re on the go. Another option is to invest in a small battery-powered hand-held fan to keep away the worst of the heat

8. Look for Shade

Try to stay in the shade whenever possible. Lots of museums and attractions have air conditioning, and many stone churches and cathedrals tend to be cool, so stopping at these places will be both interesting, and help you to beat the heat for a while. You can even plan your day so that you visit such places during the hottest hours of the day.

9. Choose the Right Time to Step Out

Speaking of planning your day, try to set out early before the sun is at its hottest, or after sunset so that you can avoid hot afternoons. If you have the time, return to your accommodation in the afternoon and wait out the heat by having a long lunch, or a nice nap, before setting out again in the evening.

Plan activities in the early morning or late evening to avoid the hottest part of the day, helping to prevent heat stroke while traveling.

10. Check Weather Forecasts

Be aware of the weather conditions and plan accordingly.

11. Avoid Strenuous Activities

Reduce physical exertion during peak heat. Avoid Outdoor Sports: Limit activities like running or cycling during peak heat.

12. Avoid Overcrowded Places

Crowded areas can be hotter and more stressful.

13. Watch Out For Insects

Mosquitoes and other insects can be more prevalent in the summer months. Use insect repellent, wear long pants and sleeves, and avoid areas where insects are known to gather.

14. Eat Light Meals

Heavy meals can increase body temperature, so eat light, refreshing foods.

15. Go Get Ice cream

Nope, this isn’t a joke, or an even excuse to gorge yourself on ice cream. Cold foods like ice cream give you relief from the heat, at least for a while, by lowering your core temperature. Though this wears off after a while, just take that as an excuse to have some more!

16. Plan For Emergencies

Make sure you have a first-aid kit and any necessary medications with you, and know the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility in case of an emergency.

17. Monitor Health

Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness: Educate yourself on symptoms and treatments.

Remember, if you start to feel dizzy and nauseous, they may be signs of heat cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke, so rest up. If it persists, visit a doctor.

Symptoms Of Heat Stroke On Holiday And What to Do

Heat stroke is a severe condition that can occur during holidays, especially when travelling in hot climates. Recognizing the symptoms early and taking immediate action is crucial.

Heat Stroke On Holiday – Symptoms To Look Out For In Kids

• High fever without sweating
• Extreme thirst
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid breathing
• Weakness or lethargy
• Irritability or confusion

Acting Swiftly: Steps To Take When Heat Stroke Symptoms Arise

If you or someone else shows symptoms of heat stroke:

• Move to a cooler location, preferably indoors with air conditioning.
• Remove any unnecessary  clothing.
• Cool the body with whatever means available, such as a cool bath, sponge bath, or wet cloth.
• Hydrate with water or sports drinks.
• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms are severe.

Packing Checklist For Travelling During A Heat Wave

When travelling during a heatwave, packing the right items is essential for a comfortable and safe trip. Here is a checklist to ensure you’re well-prepared to prevent heat stroke on holiday:

1. Water Bottles: Carry multiple bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.
2. Sunscreen: Choose a high SPF to protect your skin from sunburn.
3. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat for shade and protection.
4. Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses to shield your eyes.
5. Cooling Towel: A towel that can be soaked in water to provide cooling relief.
6. Lightweight  Clothing: Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool.
7. Portable Fan: A small, battery-operated fan for instant cooling.
8. Electrolyte Drinks: Pack powdered electrolyte drinks to replenish lost minerals.
9. First Aid Kit: Include items specifically for heat-related issues.
10. Moisturizer: Hydrating lotion to prevent dry skin.
11. Aloe Vera Gel: For soothing sunburned skin.
12. Umbrella: For portable shade during outdoor activities.
13. Snacks: Light, hydrating snacks like fruits and yoghurt.
14. Insect Repellent: To avoid bites and irritation.
15. Light Blanket: For unexpected cooler evenings.
16. Hydrating Face Mist: To refresh and cool down your face.
17. Sun-Protective  Clothing: UV-blocking shirts and pants.
18. Comfortable Shoes: Breathable and light shoes for walking.
19. Travel-sized Toiletries: Including items like deodorant to stay fresh.
20. Portable Charger: To keep your devices charged for emergency use.

That's not too hard, is it? When you think about it, you'd agree that it's worth it all in the end if you can have a stress-free vacation with your kids!