Taking children abroad on holiday can be one of the most rewarding family experiences, but it also requires a bit more planning than travelling solo or as a couple.
Children are more vulnerable to certain illnesses, dehydration, sun exposure, and travel-related infections, which means preparation is key to keeping them safe and comfortable while away.
Below are the essential health preparations every parent should consider before travelling abroad with children.
Check routine childhood vaccinations first
Before thinking about travel-specific vaccines, it’s important to make sure your child’s routine immunisations are fully up to date.
In the UK, children are routinely protected against illnesses such as:
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and polio
- Whooping cough
- Meningitis (various strains depending on age)
These diseases still circulate in many parts of the world, including Europe, and outbreaks do occur. Incomplete vaccination can increase the risk of serious illness while abroad.
Understand destination-specific vaccine requirements
Depending on where you are travelling, additional vaccinations may be recommended for children.
These may include protection against:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Rabies (in some higher-risk destinations or extended stays)
Not all children will need these vaccines, and recommendations vary depending on age, destination, and type of travel. For example, travelling to rural areas or staying for longer periods may increase exposure to certain infections compared to a short city break.
A visit to your local travel health clinic will help to ensure your child only receives what is necessary for their specific trip.
Plan for food and water safety
One of the most common causes of illness in children abroad is contaminated food or water. Young children are more sensitive to gastrointestinal infections, so extra caution is important.
To reduce risk:
- Stick to bottled or boiled water where appropriate
- Avoid ice cubes unless made from safe water
- Choose freshly cooked hot food
- Avoid raw or undercooked meats and seafood
- Peel fruit yourself where possible
- Be cautious with buffets that have been standing for long periods
Even in Europe, cases of traveller’s diarrhoea can occur, particularly in hot climates where food may spoil more quickly. Packing oral rehydration salts is highly recommended for families, as children can become dehydrated quickly if they become unwell.
Prepare a child-friendly travel health kit
A well-prepared travel health kit can save a lot of stress if your child becomes ill abroad.
Consider including:
- Oral rehydration salts
- Age-appropriate pain relief (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Thermometer
- Plasters and basic first aid supplies
- Antiseptic wipes or gel
- Insect repellent suitable for children
- Antihistamine (if advised by a pharmacist)
- Any regular prescription medications
It’s also important to carry medicines in their original packaging and bring a copy of prescriptions where needed.
Sun safety for children is essential
Children are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and heat-related illness, especially in popular summer destinations across Europe such as Spain, Greece, Italy, and Portugal. Sunburn in childhood increases long-term skin damage risk, so prevention is essential.
Key precautions include:
- Using high-factor sunscreen (SPF 30–50)
- Reapplying every two hours and after swimming
- Keeping children in the shade during peak sun hours (11am–3pm)
- Dressing children in lightweight, protective clothing
- Using hats with wide brims
- Encouraging regular fluid intake
Heat exhaustion can develop quickly in young children, so monitoring hydration and rest is essential throughout the day.
Protect against insect bites
Insect bites are not just a nuisance; they can sometimes carry infections depending on destination and season. Even in parts of Europe, mosquitoes and ticks can be present, particularly in rural or wooded areas.
To reduce risk:
- Use child-safe insect repellent
- Dress children in long sleeves and trousers in the evenings
- Use mosquito nets where necessary
- Check skin daily for ticks after outdoor activities
If you are travelling to areas with known mosquito-borne risks, a travel health professional can advise on additional precautions.
Plan for motion sickness and travel comfort
Long journeys can be challenging for children, especially on flights, ferries, or winding road trips.
To improve comfort:
- Keep children hydrated
- Offer light meals before travel
- Encourage rest during journeys
- Use motion sickness remedies if appropriate
- Bring snacks and entertainment to reduce stress and boredom
Children who are comfortable and well-rested are less likely to become unwell during travel.
Travelling abroad with children is incredibly rewarding, but it does require careful planning from a health perspective. From vaccinations and sun protection to food safety and travel kits, small steps taken before departure can make a big difference to your family’s wellbeing.