Traveling with Kids: The Essential Medication Guide Every Parent Needs

For parents travelling with children, being prepared to manage minor health issues can help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable trip.

Planning a family holiday with kids? While travelling is an exciting adventure, it’s always wise to be prepared for potential health concerns when exploring with young children. Packing the right medications and supplies can help you manage minor ailments and ensure a smoother journey. Here’s a helpful guide to getting ready for your child’s health needs before travelling from Singapore.

Essentials to pack in your travel medicine kit

When travelling with children, having a well-stocked travel kit ensures you’re prepared to handle common minor ailments. Here are the essentials:

a. Fever and pain relief

Children may develop fevers or feel discomfort due to changes in weather, new environments, or travel fatigue. Pack child-appropriate pain relievers and fever medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen in liquid or chewable form. Remember to check dosage instructions for your child’s age and weight.

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b. Anti-nausea and motion sickness medication

For children who experience car sickness or nausea during flights, anti-nausea medications like dimenhydrinate may be helpful. Always check the label for age restrictions, and consult a pharmacist or GP to ensure it’s appropriate for your child, especially if they are very young.

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Motion Sickness Package

c. Rehydration solutions and diarrhoea relief

Travelling exposes kids to new foods and environments, sometimes leading to upset stomachs. Pack oral rehydration salts (ORS) to prevent dehydration in case of diarrhoea or vomiting. For children over two years old, probiotics can support gut health. Avoid anti-diarrhoeal medications for children under two unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.

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d. Allergy medication and anti-itch creams

New destinations often mean new plants, insects, and allergens. An age-appropriate antihistamine, like cetirizine or loratadine, can help manage mild allergic reactions. For bug bites or skin irritation, anti-itch creams with calamine or hydrocortisone can soothe discomfort.

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e. Cough and cold medications

For mild coughs or colds, pack a simple saline nasal spray to relieve nasal congestion. Be cautious with cold medications for children under six, as these may have limited effectiveness and potential side effects. Honey packets (for children over one year old) can also help soothe a sore throat naturally.

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f. Topical antibiotics and plasters

For minor cuts or scrapes, a basic first-aid kit with antiseptic wipes, adhesive bandages, and topical antibiotic cream is essential. Plasters in fun designs can help distract young children, making treatment less daunting.

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Medication storage tips for travel

Proper storage of medications is important to maintain their effectiveness. Here are some tips:

Use Original Packaging: Keep medications in their original packaging for easy identification and to ensure dosage instructions are on hand.
Prepare for Security Checks: Use a clear, zip-lock bag for easy inspection at customs.
Temperature Control: Some medications, especially liquids, may need to be kept cool. For hot climates, consider a small insulated bag.
Clear Labelling: Label all medications with the child’s name and specific dosing instructions for easy access during travel.

Consult your GP or paediatrician before you travel

Before heading off on your travels, especially if going abroad, consult your child’s GP or paediatrician to review their health needs and ensure you’re well-prepared. They can provide recommendations specific to your travel destination, such as advising on anti-malarial tablets for malaria-endemic areas if needed.

Important reminders for safe medication use

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

Follow Dosage Instructions Carefully: Always follow the dosage recommendations for your child’s age and weight.
Check Expiry Dates: Confirm that all medications are within their expiration date before packing.
Know Local Emergency Contacts: Save the emergency contact numbers and identify healthcare facilities near your travel destination. For travel within Singapore, the emergency hotline is 995. When travelling overseas, ensure you have key contact numbers for local emergency services at your destination for added peace of mind.

Packing a well-prepared travel medicine kit for your child can help you handle minor health concerns during your trip, so you can enjoy a smoother, stress-free holiday. Consider including essentials like fever medication, wound care supplies, and any necessary prescription medication. If you’re unsure what to pack, a consultation with a GP on the Doctor Anywhere app can provide tailored advice and tips to ensure you’re ready for your family’s specific travel needs.

Your Health, In Your Hands

From GP teleconsults to health screenings, vaccinations, and more, we’re here to keep you and your loved ones healthy whenever you need us.

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