Tips for safe travel

If you are going in the car for any length of time at all your child must have a car seat; they should sit in the back of the car and have a seat which supports their whole body and an adjusted seat belt; if you are going abroad and plan to hire a car, take care to remember to take the car seat with you. Drive carefully and take care to stick to the speed limits; if you are getting tired, take a break or ask somebody to drive for a while so you can catch up on sleep.

On all journeys it is advisable to take plenty of food and water with you; it is also beneficial to stop every now and again so that everyone can stretch their legs; this is particularly important if you are going on a long haul flight, as the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is higher.

Take care to cover your child in high factor sun cream if you are going somewhere hot, make them wear a sun hat and ensure they spend time in the shade or indoors, rather than in direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours of the day (between 11am and 3pm).

Make sure you keep hydrated; give your child plenty of water, especially if you are on an aeroplane or in a hot country.

Take a first aid kit with you and spare medication if your child has a health problem or takes regular medication. Try to pack for all eventualities. Tell staff at the check-in desk and the resort if your child has an allergy.

Travelling with a Newborn Baby:

• Travelling with a Newborn Baby
• Health and Safety
• What to Take
• Different travel and holiday options
• Out and about
• Transporting newborns

• Travelling with a young child
• Going on a long car journey
• Keeping your child entertained
• Packing checklist
• Tips for safe travel
• Dealing with travel sickness