Timely Tip: Summer is family fun time!

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Planning a vacation this summer? Traveling with an infant or toddler can make you feel as though you are on a major journey. So much to carry, so few hands. Then there are the possible tantrums, which make most parents dread getting on a plane or train with their infant or toddler. Your child probably will cry or scream at least once in a while on a plane. It happens to all parents. But with some planning and careful packing, you can make travel easier for you and your child.

Here are a few suggestions to get you on your way.

Traveling by airplane:

• If you’re planning an international trip make sure you and your children are up to date on vaccinations and check with your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to see if you or your children might need additional vaccines.
• Keep all of your child’s items—and some things for you—in your carry-on bag.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat if your baby is more than 6 months old. If the baby is younger, cover him or her with a hat, stroller umbrella, and long sleeves.
• Breast-feed, bottle-feed, or have your baby suck on a pacifier during takeoff and landing, if possible. The sucking will help ease ear pain from air pressure. If you use formula, buy it premixed or mix it at home so you can avoid the mess of water and powder on the plane.
• In your carry-on bag, pack a toy or book that your child has not seen. The surprise might keep him or her busy for a good part of the flight.
• Pack a few snacks for your toddler. Try to get him or her to eat or drink from a sippy cup during takeoff and especially during landing to help with ear pain.
• If you can be flexible, try to schedule off-peak flights, such as midweek during the day. Ask the airline to help you pick the least-full flights. If seats are empty, you may be able to have an extra seat for your child to spread out with his or her toys.
• Get a window seat if you can. Many toddlers enjoy looking outside.
• If you can, bring a stroller that also includes a car seat. You can wheel your baby to the gate, where airline staff can check the stroller. If you plan to buy a separate seat for the baby, make sure your car seat is approved for air travel.
• Ask hotel staff whether they have kits to childproof your room. If not, bring your own plastic outlet covers and garbage bag twist ties to keep electrical and drapery cords away from your baby.

Traveling by Car

• Take several breaks to let your child run around. If there are two adults in the car, take turns sitting in the back with your child to read some books, sing, or play games.
• Always use a car safety seat for infants and children 6 years or 60 pounds. The safest place for children is in the backseat.
• Set a good example by always wearing a seat belt.
• Children can easily become restless or irritable when on a long road trip. Try to keep them occupied by pointing out interesting sights along the way and by bringing soft, lightweight toys and favorite CDs for a sing-along.
• Plan to stop driving and give yourself and your child a break about every two hours.
• Never leave your child alone in a car, even for a minute.

For additional information on travel safety, visit:

Kaiser Permanente Travel Safety Tips

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Travel Safety

Child Safety on Airplanes

Travelers' Health Kit

Vaccinations

US State Department

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