How to keep children safe when travelling abroad
Family holidays abroad create great memories, but travelling with children brings its own safety considerations. For parents and guardians, the thought of something going wrong while away from home can be deeply concerning.
From minor illnesses to more serious situations, being prepared is very important for peace of mind and making sure your family trip remains enjoyable. According to an ABTA’s report, nearly 60 per cent of young families take overseas holidays annually, which makes child safety abroad a relevant concern for millions of British families. With proper preparation and awareness, you can lower potential risks while exploring the world with your children.
- Pre-travel preparation
Thorough preparation before departure is the basis for safe travel. For instance, you have to make sure all family members have valid passports with at least six months’ validity beyond your return date. For destinations requiring visas, apply well in advance to avoid complications. Comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable when travelling with children. Verify that your policy includes adequate medical coverage and repatriation benefits. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office recommends checking if your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is valid for your destination.
You should also consult with your GP about necessary vaccinations at least eight weeks before travel, as some require multiple doses. Pack a well-stocked first aid kit containing essentials like plasters, antiseptic, pain relief appropriate for children’s ages, antihistamines, and any prescription medications your child needs.
Lastly, research your destination thoroughly, understanding local safety concerns, cultural norms, and any areas to avoid. Create laminated emergency contact cards for each family member, including local emergency services numbers, hotel details, and family contact information.
- Travel safety
Going through airports needs you to be vigilant. Establish meeting points in case of separation and discuss security procedures with children beforehand. When picking accommodation, prioritise properties with secure balconies, pool safety features, and fire safety measures. Food and water safety varies worldwide, so in destinations with questionable water quality, stick to bottled water for drinking and teeth brushing.
Be cautious with street food, raw ingredients, and unwashed fruits or vegetables to prevent stomach upsets. Sun protection is very important, particularly for children’s sensitive skin. Apply high-factor sunscreen regularly, schedule activities to avoid peak sun hours (10 am-4 pm), and ensure children remain hydrated throughout the day.
- Emergency situations
Despite precautions, emergencies can happen. For this, you should familiarise yourself with local emergency numbers and healthcare facilities near your accommodation. For serious medical concerns, contact your travel insurance provider’s emergency assistance line for guidance. If a child becomes separated, remain calm and immediately alert local authorities and accommodation staff.
Have recent photos of your children on your phone to share if needed. Unfortunately, some holiday accidents result from negligence by tour operators, hotels, or activity providers. In cases of serious injuries like head trauma that lead to brain injury claims, document everything thoroughly, including photographs, witness details, and medical reports. These might prove essential if negligence contributed to the incident.
Balancing adventure with safety creates the most rewarding family travel experiences. When you combine thorough preparation, vigilant supervision, and knowledge of emergency procedures, you can explore the world with your children while maintaining peace of mind. Remember that most family holidays proceed without incident, and these precautions simply provide a safety net for the unexpected.
also read: How to Plan the Perfect Trip Without Starting from Scratch?
