Planning Ahead for Family Travel
Travelling with children requires extra health planning, but it doesn't need to be stressful. At Gloucester Travel Clinic, we regularly help families prepare for trips abroad — from first holidays with toddlers to gap-year adventures with teenagers.
The key is starting early. We recommend booking a family travel consultation at least 8 weeks before departure to allow time for any multi-dose vaccine courses and to discuss age-appropriate health precautions.
Children's Travel Vaccinations: Age Guide
Not all vaccines can be given to children of every age. Here's a general guide — our pharmacists will confirm the exact schedule based on your child's age and medical history:
From birth:
- Hepatitis B (if high-risk destination)
From 1 year:
- Hepatitis A
- Meningitis ACWY
- MMR (if not already had both doses)
From 2 years:
- Typhoid (injection)
- Cholera (Dukoral)
From 9 months (in exceptional circumstances):
- Yellow Fever (standard recommendation from 9 months; can be given from 6 months in high-risk areas)
From 1 year (pre-exposure):
- Rabies
Some vaccines like Japanese Encephalitis can be given from 2 months in certain circumstances. Our pharmacists will advise on the best approach for your child.
Essential Packing List for Travelling with Children
Medications:
- Paracetamol and/or ibuprofen (age-appropriate formulations)
- Oral rehydration sachets (vital for treating dehydration from diarrhoea)
- Antihistamine syrup (for allergic reactions and insect bites)
- Prescription medications with a copy of the prescription
- Antiseptic wipes and plasters
Sun & Insect Protection:
- SPF 50+ sunscreen suitable for children
- Insect repellent — DEET-based products are safe for children over 2 months (use 20-30% concentration for children)
- Mosquito net for cots and pushchairs
- Light, long-sleeved clothing
Hydration & Nutrition:
- Bottled water or water purification tablets
- Familiar snacks (useful during long journeys and for fussy eaters)
- Baby formula/food if needed (don't rely on availability abroad)
Food & Water Safety with Children
Children are more vulnerable to travellers' diarrhoea and dehydration than adults. Key precautions include:
- Only drink bottled or boiled water (this includes for brushing teeth)
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Choose freshly cooked, hot food over buffets or cold salads
- Peel all fruit yourself
- Carry oral rehydration sachets at all times
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
If your child develops diarrhoea abroad, the most important treatment is preventing dehydration with oral rehydration solutions. Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Sun Safety & Heat
Children are more susceptible to heat-related illness than adults. In hot destinations:
- Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sunlight entirely
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours
- Ensure children drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Plan activities for cooler parts of the day (early morning and late afternoon)
- Dress children in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing with hats
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: headache, dizziness, excessive sweating, cool/pale skin
Book a Family Travel Health Consultation
Our pharmacists love helping families travel safely. We can see the whole family in one appointment and create a tailored health plan for your trip.
- Brookfield Pharmacy, 5 Brookfield Road, Hucclecote, GL3 3HA
- Hucclecote Pharmacy, 7 Glenville Parade, Hucclecote, GL3 3ES
Book your family consultation today and enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.