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Toddler-friendly holidays

Now your child’s a bit older, you may be thinking about going on holiday as a family for the first time. Your child will get a lot out of the experience and will enjoy the new sights and sounds.

Choosing a holiday

Even the most adventurous child can feel unsettled by travelling and staying for a length of time in a new place. So think carefully about the destination and accommodation you choose. Now is a good time to travel to a ‘family friendly’ destination, where your toddler’s needs are catered for with toddler friendly equipment, play areas and staff.

Health and safety checks

When you arrive at your accommodation, take some time to check around before you let your toddler run free.

Has the living space been baby proofed? Are the electrical sockets covered? Are there any dangerous looking stairs or a balcony? Could your toddler be at risk in the kitchen if there is one?

Check the whole place and prepare it as if it were your own home, thinking about all the toddler-proofing you have there. Is there anything you can ask the owners to do in advance to make your accommodation safer, or anything you could bring from home, such as electrical outlet covers ?

Fun in the sun

It’s well known that as the ozone layer diminishes, the risks for everyone from the sun’s rays are increasing. Children are especially at risk from the sun, as their skin is so thin and delicate.

So bring plenty of hats, high factor sunscreen and clothing that’s UV protective. Remember that some clothes are too thin to protect your child’s skin from the sun, and skin damage can be happening even though your child appears to be completely covered up. Even on a winter holiday the sun’s rays can be extremely strong, so don’t forget sun protection just because there’s snow on the ground.

If you’re taking your car or hiring one while you’re away, get a removable car-shade screen for the car’s windows to shield your child’s skin and eyes from the sun.

Baby supplies

Bring a first aid kit of essentials including rehydration salts in case of tummy troubles, a baby thermometer, infant paracetamol, antiseptic cream and creams for bites and stings. Plasters are also a good idea.

You’ll probably find that nappies, bottles and teats are readily available and often cheaper if you’re abroad, so don’t fill up your suitcase space with nappies. If you are bottle feeding, be aware that formula you can buy abroad may not be the same as your child is used to, so it’s a good idea to bring enough formula with you. Carry plenty of wet wipes in your hand luggage or handbag – they’re invaluable for everything from wiping sticky fingers, to cleaning a spoon thrown on the floor.

You’ll also need to think about bringing a travelling cot, or if there’s the option, ordering one when you book your accommodation. If you wait until you arrive to arrange a cot you may be too late to get one.

Out and about

When you go out and about you’ll want to be able to transport your toddler with minimum fuss. So consider bringing a really lightweight pushchair that’s easy to fold and carry, and a backpack-style carrier so you’re ready for all possibilities and all types of terrain.

As always, you’ll be carrying supplies like nappies with you, but for ease of use consider a backpack instead of a shoulder bag. It’s far more comfortable to wear if you’re on the move for the day.

If you plan to hire a car, find out if car seats are provided or if you should bring your own with you. To give you a bit of a rest, consider a portable playpen so your toddler can play securely in a new environment.