First Aid Kit Tips for Families Travelling with Children

Travelling with children is a wonderful way to make lasting memories—but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From minor scrapes to unexpected fevers, children are more likely than adults to encounter small health issues on holiday. That’s why having a well-prepared travel first aid kit is essential for any family adventure, whether you’re heading to the seaside or exploring new cultures abroad.

At Chelsea Green Pharmacy Travel Clinic, we understand the unique needs of families on the move. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to include in your travel first aid kit when travelling with children, with practical advice on keeping your little ones healthy, happy, and safe wherever your travels take you.

Why Every Family Needs a Travel First Aid Kit

Children are naturally curious, energetic, and sometimes a little clumsy. While a grazed knee or insect bite isn’t usually serious, it can quickly become stressful if you’re away from familiar medical services or local pharmacies. A well-stocked travel first aid kit gives you the tools to handle common childhood ailments and accidents with confidence—helping avoid unnecessary trips to the doctor or hospital during your holiday.

Child-Friendly Essentials for Your Kit

When packing a travel first aid kit for children, it’s important to choose products that are suitable for young, sensitive skin and age-appropriate dosages. Here are our top recommendations:

1. Child-Safe Plasters and Dressings

Choose hypoallergenic plasters in fun designs to encourage cooperation when dealing with cuts or blisters. Include a few larger dressings for bigger scrapes and a small roll of medical tape.

2. Paediatric Paracetamol and Ibuprofen

Always bring liquid versions of pain and fever relief medications that your child is used to. Travel-size bottles are convenient, and don’t forget a dosing syringe or spoon for accurate measurement.

3. Thermometer

A digital thermometer is a must-have for detecting fevers. Compact and battery-operated options are ideal for travel.

4. Sunburn Relief and High-SPF Sun Cream

Children’s skin is especially vulnerable to sun damage. Include a child-friendly, water-resistant SPF 50+ sun cream and a soothing after-sun gel with aloe vera in case of overexposure.

5. Antihistamines for Children

Whether it’s a reaction to an insect bite, pollen, or a new food, antihistamines are useful to have on hand. Speak to your pharmacist about child-appropriate options in syrup or melt-in-the-mouth tablets.

6. Insect Repellent Suitable for Young Skin

Mosquitoes and other insects can be more than a nuisance, especially in certain regions where bites may carry diseases. Use a repellent specifically designed for children—often DEET-free or with a lower concentration—and consider insect repellent wristbands or stickers as an added precaution.

7. Rehydration Sachets and Anti-Diarrhoeal Support

If your child develops an upset stomach, especially in hot climates, dehydration can set in quickly. Oral rehydration salts suitable for children help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

8. Antiseptic Wipes and Hand Sanitiser

Perfect for cleaning hands before meals or wiping down wounds. Choose alcohol-free antiseptic wipes for younger children, and keep a travel-sized bottle of sanitiser handy for the whole family.

9. Motion Sickness Remedies

If your child suffers from travel sickness, consult your pharmacist for suitable treatments. Options include chewable tablets, liquid medicines, or even acupressure wristbands.

10. Basic Medical Tools

Include tweezers for splinters or ticks, blunt-tip scissors for trimming plasters or clothes, and a small pair of gloves for hygiene when dealing with any open wounds.

A Note on Travel Vaccinations

In addition to a well-stocked travel first aid kit, it’s crucial to consider preventative healthcare when travelling abroad with children. At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we offer a full range of travel vaccinations for families. From routine jabs to protection against region-specific illnesses such as hepatitis A, typhoid, or yellow fever, we’re here to ensure your family is fully prepared. Book a travel health consultation with our trained pharmacists to discuss the necessary vaccines based on your destination.

Tips for Packing and Using Your Kit

• Customise your kit based on your child’s existing health conditions, allergies, or medications.

• Keep it organised in a waterproof pouch or case, and make sure all items are clearly labelled.

• Check expiry dates before you travel, and replace any out-of-date items.

• Store medication properly, especially in hot climates. Some medicines may need to be kept cool, so consider using a travel cooler pouch.

Peace of Mind for Parents

A thoughtfully prepared travel first aid kit won’t prevent every mishap, but it will empower you to respond quickly and calmly if something goes wrong. At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we’re here to support families at every stage of their travel journey—from travel health advice and vaccinations to personalised first aid kit recommendations.

Before you jet off, pop into our pharmacy or contact us online to speak with a member of our friendly team. We’ll help you build a kit that suits your family’s specific travel plans and ensure you’re ready for anything—so you can focus on making memories, not managing mishaps.