Families often go on holiday during the school holidays. But regardless of whether you head to the beach, into the mountains or to an exotic faraway place, it's important to be well prepared, especially when taking along children.
Holidays are a time for relaxation and fun. To make sure that everyone in the family has a good time, it pays to plan well. It makes sense to look out for child-friendly activities when choosing your destination. For families with younger children, it's also a good idea to stay in one location rather than moving around frequently.
It can be hard for young children to keep adjusting to new places. Children in unfamiliar surroundings are generally also more susceptible to infectious diseases than adults.
Vaccinated properly?
Getting sick while on holiday not only spoils the fun but can also bring health risks. So check in good time whether your children have had the vaccinations recommended in the Swiss vaccination schedule and fill in any gaps.
Depending on your destination, especially if it's in the tropics, additional specific vaccinations are recommended for adults and children. Check with your family doctor or paediatrician in advance or visit healthytravel.ch.
What to take in your first aid kit
Babies and toddlers may react to a new environment, unfamiliar food and a change in climate with fever or diarrhoea. It's also hard to avoid cuts and scrapes when kids are playing and running around. Having a well-equipped first-aid kit may save you from having to look for a pharmacy while you're away,
so putting one together is an essential part of your holiday preparation. What you take in addition to the standard medicines depends on where you're travelling and what you plan to do. Find out in advance what medications and medical aids are recommended for your destination.
Travel well prepared: first aid kit for families
If you travel with children, you need a well-stocked first aid kit. Be sure to pack the following, especially for children. Check the shelf life of all medicines before each trip.
Thermometer and fever-reducing suppositories
Drugs for diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting
Sterile eye and ear drops
Saline nasal spray
Cough syrup for children
Disinfectant and ointments
Sunscreen with high sun protection factor
Insect repellents
Plasters, bandages and gauze compresses
Tweezers and (nail) scissors
