We’re in the midst of a popular travel season for many families. Kids are out of school on break for the holidays, and you may be using the time to travel to warm destinations, ski destinations, or to see family and loved ones. 

With all this traveling, it’s possible that it’s taking a toll on your health and your kids’ health, or you may be worried that could become the case.

Traveling can leave your entire family susceptible to more illnesses than you would be otherwise. 

You may be on planes and trains, and the close quarters can be problematic in terms of germs. You could also be traveling to places with unfamiliar food that can do a number on your kids’ stomach, plus it’s flu season in the U.S. and other parts of the world. 

The following are tips and things to keep in mind to keep your kids, particularly babies and toddlers, healthy while you travel. 

Bring Homeopathic Remedies

There are quite a few different homeopathic remedies, such as gripe water, that you might want to bring with you anytime you travel. These can be used if you start to notice signs of illness in your children, and you don’t have to worry about seeing a doctor or getting a prescription while you’re away. 

Other popular types of homeopathic medicines include aconitum napellus, which can be used to help symptoms of croup and fever, as well as arnica. Arnica is used for bruises, sprains and similar situations. Arsenicum album is often used to ease diarrhea and vomiting from stomach flu or food poisoning. 

It’s important before you use any homeopathic medicine on your children that you do speak to your doctor at home, however, and get the all-clear from them. You should also read instructions, including dosages, carefully before you administer it. 

Along with homeopathic remedies, some of the medicines you might want to have on-hand as well include an antihistamine such as Benadryl and hydrocortisone lotion. A pain reliever, antibacterial ointment, cough syrup and decongestant can also be helpful during your family travels. 

Your doctor may be able to help you plan ahead for some of the over-the-counter medications and homeopathic remedies you should take when you travel. Also, speaking of doctors, take your kids to the doctor before you head to your destination. 

If you’re going somewhere out of the country, this is especially important. 

Give your child’s pediatrician all the details of where you’ll be going and what your plans are so they can provide you with any necessary information or warnings. 

For example, if you’re heading to Asia, there will be certain health risks that your child’s pediatrician can help educate you about and prepare you for.

Make Smart Food Choices

Once you’re in your destination, whether it’s Disney World or Japan and everything in between, try and ensure that your entire family makes smart food choices. 

Yes, it’s okay to indulge and have treats from time-to-time, but if you’re going crazy with the foods you’re eating and your kids are too, they may be more susceptible to stomach problems and illnesses. 

You want to eat foods that are high in fiber and lean protein as much as you can. 

If you’re going on a trip such as a cruise, be cautious of uncooked or undercooked foods, and whenever possible, you might want to choose restaurants onboard that prepare the food to order rather than something like a buffet, which can make it more likely you get sick. 

If you’re traveling to a foreign country, avoid raw and uncooked foods altogether, including fruits and fruit juices. 

Make sure that your kids stay well-hydrated throughout your travels, and consider bringing a reusable water bottle for everyone in the family. 

It’s easy to forget to drink enough water during the excitement of traveling, and there are plenty of opportunities to get dehydrated. Make it a top priority to keep everyone on top of hydration. 

Bring Vitamins

Along with having homeopathic remedies in case symptoms of an illness do occur while you’re away, you should also think about bringing multivitamins for everyone in your family. Even if you aren’t eating the most balanced diet, this can help you all get the nutrients you need.

Bringing along a probiotic that doesn’t have to be refrigerated can also help prevent or combat digestive problems while you’re away. Even if you’re just going to visit family in the U.S., traveling can still create digestive issues. 

Try to Keep the Same Sleep Patterns

If you can try and keep your family’s sleep patterns as normal as possible, it can help everyone. It’s tough, especially if you’re in a different time zone, but kids and especially babies and toddlers need plenty of rest.

You may be tempted to skip their naptimes, for example, if you’re out and about and doing other things, but you could end up regretting that decision if they have a meltdown later on. 

Finally, try and keep everyone’s hands clean. 

Bring a set of your own antibacterial wipes so you can thoroughly clean any surfaces your kids will come in contact with. This includes armrests and tray tables on planes, but also when you check into your hotel or rental, you may want to give everything a wipe down including remote controls and light switches. 

If you have a baby, this is extra important since everything they come in contact with tends to also come in contact with their mouths.

Bring along some hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes with you everywhere you go, but don’t forget the importance of handwashing either. 

It’s easy to rely entirely on antibacterial gel or forget in the hustle and bustle to wash hands, but it’s one of the best ways to keep everyone from getting sick.

Preparing a bit ahead of time and bringing the right things on your next family trip can help not only your kids but everyone in the family stay healthier and happier.