This week we are lucky to have Kendra Thornton as our guest poster. She loves to travel (just like me!). I hope you enjoy this article as much as I did. We are going camping again with our little one this summer.

Traveling to a familiar or new location can be invigorating for many parents. It can be a fascinating adventure to take children to familiar destinations as well as new ones. One of the biggest keys to being successful in this venture is to be sure the family especially the children stay healthy. Health tips to ensure everyone is feeling great are as follows.

Tip 1: Children need sleep.

Of course, that is obvious, but it is even more so when on vacation. Take time and do research on potential hotels and motels that the family will be staying. Some places are better at enforcing a strict policy of quiet hours, Orlando hotels in Walt Disney World are known for these codes. The result is that children can get the sleep they need for traveling or for the adventures of the next day.

Tip 2: It can be quite natural for a child to become hungry when on a trip.

In fact, they may be craving a sweet as compared to a different type of food. Plan ahead by making or purchasing some low-fat trail mix that can include peanuts and raisins. Healthy fruits can be ideal such as an apple, banana or strawberries. However, if you need to grab something quick on the go you can still make healthy fast food decisions so you don’t have to suffer from the repercussions later!

Tip 3: A young toddler or a baby can be unhappy when they are sleeping in a different environment.

Therefore, strive to keep their temporary sleeping arrangement similar to the one at home. Bring their sheets, a hat they wear at night, a favorite stuffed animal and other accessories that enable them to recognize that it is time to go to bed. Furthermore, habits before bedtime such as reading or feeding should be kept up since it helps the child know that it is time to sleep.

Tip 4: When traveling on an airplane, be sure to bring bottles of water for the family to drink.

The water served on the airplane comes from a holding tank that, in some instances, is not cleaned regularly. In fact, the EPA has been reviewing airplane water for E. coli evidence. Therefore, hold off on airplane coffee, water and other drinks made with airplane water.

Tip 5: Sunburn and UV light can cause damage and pain on the skin of a child.

This is especially true when children are close to UV light near the equator as well as when light is reflected off snow and water. Therefore, take time and be prepared with having sunscreen protection for children and adults. Be sure to read the labels on the containers. Some sunscreens have a high SPF level while others do not.
Healthy traveling is a benefit to all involved. It can make the vacation more enjoyable and is a great preventative from problems such as sick or exhausted children. Healthy choices can make current and future traveling adventures a true thrill.

Kendra Thornton: Travel advocate, TV spokesperson, PR businesswoman, proud wife and mama of 3. I am a long time travel expert who has been packing my bags and traveling the world since I was 3 months old! I've found my utmost desire in life is right here in my own home. I have mixed my excitement for travel by bringing the taste of authentic cuisine to my own home with some of my unique recipes and sharing some of my personal traveling tips.