With days of winter firmly behind us, the summer is right around the corner and as all parents know the summer sun is all about getting some family fun! That’s right, between the excitement for a new session, new milestones and exciting changes — the summer vacation also gives families a chance to go on adventures together.
Whether you and your kids are adventure lovers or history buffs, summer vacation travel is the perfect way to indulge in your preferred interests while carving out some quality time for your little ones. The key to making your summer travel plans successful is preparation, which includes noting all summer travel safety tips.
Summer Safety: Why You Need it
Though it seems like the perfect way to rejuvenate and prepare for the rest of the year, planning the perfect summer travel isn’t without its challenges. The summer season also brings along with it a fair share of risks and dangers that can prove to be a dampener on your vacation plans. Be it sunburns, heatstroke, or mosquitoes — there are plenty of things that can throw your summer travel plans in jeopardy. So here are a few summer vacation safety tips to help you plan your perfect vacation!
All Aboard The Safe Summer Travel Train!
Use these tips to plan a great worry-free holiday.
- Minimise the sun to maximise your fun:
- Beat the heat with healthy hydration
- Avoid sugary drinks
- Keep it light
- Know all about heat-related illnesses
- Include your family in the planning
- Prepare in advance for safe travel
- Don’t forget to research
No, we are not talking about spending less time outdoors instead, we are recommending sun-safe travel by limiting your exposure to the sun. You should look into investing in sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher and other gear such as wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to protect your body against the damage from the UV rays.
If you plan to include more intensive activities such as hiking or trekking in your travel plans, you should also pack loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect against mosquito bites and sun damage.
Plan your best summer travel by including sources for healthy hydration. Cruising a museum or visiting a zoo, it is easy to work up a sweat in the summer. However, it is not easy to recognise the signs of hydration. So ensure that you and your family are staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Remember to do so even if you are not feeling particularly thirsty.
though as they may help you feel satiated but they contribute to dehydration. You can also opt for other healthy alternatives such as coconut water, and ORS to keep your hydration levels up.
While planning your summer vacation you may be tempted to make the best of it by trying to do as many activities as possible, but it would be best if you plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day such as in the early morning or at dusk.
If you are planning to include activities such as a sightseeing tour or touring the museums then we would also advise you to take adequate breaks in air conditioned areas to cool down.
As a precautionary measure to ensure that your travelling plans end up being the best summer travel for your family, do make it a point to read up about heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps. It would be helpful in case any family member is afflicted with these issues. Knowing the signs and symptoms of these could go a long way. Let your family know how to spot these signs and ask for help right away if they feel unwell.
Include your family while pooling in summer travel ideas. Help your children do their research and give suggestions. This will help you in selecting a destination that will cater to everyone. Also, help them pack according to the destination and don’t forget to include essentials like first aid kit, bug repellants, and prescription medicines, if any.
Depending on the modes of travel that you will take in your vacation, take measures in advance to prepare for the actual journey. For e.g. if it’s a road trip, make sure to check the driving conditions in advance and also, ensure that your car service has been done prior to that. You should also take some time to familiarise yourself with routes by studying maps, which can come handy if you are unable to use online maps.
If travelling by plane or train, book tickets in advance and don’t forget to check the website for any updated notice about restrictions on luggage or change in departure/arrival timings. Also, ensure that you pack your valuables securely and in line with the regulations.
While these tips will help you narrow down your summer travel ideas to a perfect travel destination, you can maximise your summer fun by immersing yourself in researching the place that you plan to visit. This holds even more weight if you are travelling abroad. Don’t forget to research local customs and traditions, weather, potential health risks, and the routes. Doing so will help you be prepared in case you face any unexpected challenges.
Summer travel gives you a chance to make memories of a lifetime with your loved ones. By following these safe travel tips, you can make it a truly enjoyable experience for the whole family. Remember the key to having a great summer vacation is to ensure that you do not compromise on your and your family’s well-being and are prepared to protect them against any potential risks. It’s also ensuring that the vacation has something to offer for each member of the family. With this advice in mind, get started to plan your family’s upcoming summer adventure full of exploration, relaxation and rejuvenation while prioritising their well-being and safety!
Summer vacation can offer many opportunities to strengthen family bonds through shared experiences such as travel. If you want to know more about planning safe family activities and making the most out of the upcoming summer vacation, visit EuroKids blog.
