Traveling with kids can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring their health and well-being. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an overseas holiday, proper preparation is key to preventing common illnesses like the flu.
Dr Jacquelyn Melody, a mother of two, shares: "Parents often worry about their children falling sick while traveling. The best way to prevent this is to be proactive—pack the right essentials, maintain hygiene, and stay up to date with vaccinations."
1. Travel Health Checklist: Essentials to Pack
Medications & First-Aid Kit
Paracetamol or ibuprofen (for fever or pain relief)
Antihistamines (for allergies)
Oral rehydration salts (to prevent dehydration)
Cough syrup and sore throat lozenges
Antiseptic wipes and plasters for minor cuts
Nasal saline spray (for congestion)
Motion sickness medication (if needed)
Thermometer
Hygiene & Sanitisation
Hand sanitiser (at least 60% alcohol)
Disinfectant wipes (for cleaning surfaces)
Tissues and extra face masks
Travel-sized soap and shampoo
Immunity-Boosting Essentials
Vitamin C supplements
Probiotics (to support gut health)
Hydrating drinks (electrolyte powders)
2. Flu Prevention Tips While Travelling with Children
Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations
Before your trip, ensure your child is up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including the flu vaccine. Influenza is highly contagious and can spread quickly in crowded places like airports, hotels, cruise ships, and public transport.
Did you know? According to the Ministry of Health Singapore and the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention, flu vaccinations reduce the risk of flu-related hospitalisation in the overall population by up to 60%.
At Oaklife Family Clinic, we offer flu vaccinations for children and adults to protect your family before you travel.
Practise Good Hygiene Habits
Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching the face, especially eyes, nose, and mouth.
Use hand sanitiser when soap isn’t available.
Wipe down tray tables, armrests, and seatbelt buckles on planes, trains, and buses.
Choose Healthy Travel Snacks
Pack nutrient-rich snacks to keep your child’s immune system strong.
Some healthy options include:
Fresh fruit (oranges, bananas, apples)
Nuts and seeds (for older kids)
Yoghurt pouches (for probiotics)
Whole-grain crackers and cheese
Plenty of water to stay hydrated
3. How to Handle Common Travel Illnesses
What to Do If Your Child Gets Sick While Traveling
Monitor symptoms: Keep an eye on fever, cough, or fatigue.
Rest and hydrate: Ensure your child drinks fluids and gets enough sleep.
Use fever reducers: Administer paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed.
Seek medical help: Visit a nearby clinic if symptoms worsen or persist.
When to See a Doctor
High fever that doesn’t go down with fever reducing medicine
Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea
Poor fluid intake or lethargy
Difficulty breathing
Unusual drowsiness or confusion
One mother at Oaklife Family Clinic, Cindy, shared how her child caught a fever on a family trip to Thailand. Thankfully, she had packed paracetamol, a thermometer, and oral rehydration salts. With proper care, her child recovered within a day, allowing the family to enjoy the rest of their vacation worry-free.
4. Planning for Emergencies
Before you travel, research local healthcare facilities at your destination.
Save important emergency contacts, including:
The nearest paediatric clinic or hospital
Your child’s doctor’s contact details
Your country’s embassy (for international trips)
Travel Insurance is a Must
Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially if you’re visiting a country with high healthcare costs. Look for plans that include paediatric medical care and emergency evacuations.
Travel Smart & Stay Healthy
A well-prepared travel health kit can make all the difference in keeping your kids safe and healthy on your trip. From flu prevention to first-aid essentials, following these tips ensures a stress-free holiday for your family.
At Oaklife Family Clinic, we provide flu vaccinations, travel health advice, and child healthcare services to keep your little ones protected. 👉 Schedule a visit or flu vaccination appointment at Oaklife Family Clinic today to travel worry-free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Travelling with Kids
Q. Should I give my child a flu shot before traveling?
A. Yes, it is highly recommended. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalisation from influenza virus, especially when traveling to crowded or high-risk areas.
Q. How long before my trip should my child get the flu vaccine?
It takes about one to two weeks for the vaccine to kick in. So try to get your child vaccinated at least two weeks before.
Q. What if my child has motion sickness?
A. Pack motion sickness medication suitable for their age and offer light snacks before travel. Encourage them to look at the horizon and take deep breaths.
Q. How can I keep my child entertained while traveling?
A. Bring books, travel-friendly games, and downloaded movies or shows. Interactive toys and colouring books can also keep them engaged.
Q. What should I do if my child develops a fever abroad?
A. Monitor their symptoms, give fever-reducing medication, and ensure they stay hydrated. Seek medical help if the fever persists or worsens.
Q. Can I bring liquid medication on a plane?
A. Yes, most airlines allow essential liquid medication in carry-on luggage, but check with your airline for specific regulations.