With summer vacations in full swing, many parents have already planned outstation holidays for their families. Summer vacations are an ideal time for getaways to distant lands where families can relax and rejuvenate, explore unknown places, create lifetime memories of fun and togetherness. However, in many regions, summer vacations overlap with the onset of monsoons, which calls for more safety, especially when traveling with small children. Sometimes, unpredictable rains during vacations pose several challenges. This blog shares 10 safety tips for parents to prepare for traveling with children.

10 Essential Tips to Follow While On A Vacation With Rains 

Travelling with children during the monsoons requires proper planning and care. An extra layer of preparation may feel overwhelming because most parents are super busy these days. Since the child’s safety is a top priority, parents want to ensure they are well prepared as travel days begin to knock on doors. Here, we have made small efforts to help parents wade through the challenges without feeling distressed.

1. Waterproof essentials are a must-have 

As sudden showers are quite common during early monsoon days, parents need to carry waterproof essentials for their children. The most common are raincoats and sturdy umbrellas. A waterproof backpack can help carry essential travel documents and dry snacks for children without things getting wet. 

2. To choose places that are less rainy during the season 

When planning to travel with small children, it’s good to choose those destinations that have mild or moderate rains; otherwise, if children are too wet or feel cold due to the excessive showers, they may fall sick. Moreover, parents should select vacation spots that have fewer landslides, floods, and poor road conditions. 

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3. Keeping medicines handy 

The rainy season brings in colds, coughs, and allergies of various sorts for the little ones. Sometimes insect bites, flu, or stomach infections are also common. Thus, while traveling with children, always pack common medicines for fever, coughs and cold, and stomach irritations, so that you can avoid the last-minute rush. 

4. Make them wear proper footwear 

Children are sensitive to harsh weather conditions. During rains, they may slip off while crossing a muddy puddle, or get skin infections if their tiny feet get exposed to rainwater. Thus, ensure carrying good and non-slippery footwear for your child. Waterproof shoes and slippers are a good choice for them.

5. Guard them against mosquitoes 

Children should wear long-sleeved t-shirts and full pants while traveling to places where incessant rain is occurring so that they stay safe. In places where waterlogging has occurred, parents can put herbal repellent creams that are skin-friendly, so that children can stay protected from mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya.

6. Ensure giving them fresh foods only 

While traveling, parents must keep dry snacks with them such as fruits, makhanas, dry food laddoos, homemade cookies or chocolates, etc, so that children can munch whenever needed, without relying much on outside food. During monsoon, having half-cooked food or unhealthy foods from roadside eateries is not safe for children. They may have hygiene issues that may cause stomach pain or indigestion in children.

7. Extra clothing is important 

Kids may get wet or dirty while visiting places, even if you have put on their raincoats. Thus, keep extra clothes wherever you go out so that you can change into them if needed. Also, pack towels and napkins so that you can dry them instantly.

8. Carry safe drinking water 

Children should never be allowed to drink water from store-bought plastic bottles found in roadside stalls. Since you are not aware of the source of this water, it’s not safe for your child. Always carry their water bottles wherever you go. Their water should be either boiled or filtered so that infections can be avoided.

9. Monitor the weather forecast updates regularly 

Always check the local weather updates before stepping out of the hotel room. You can subscribe to daily weather updates on your phone, so that you can prepare beforehand. In case of heavy rain warnings, prefer staying indoors and enjoy the vacation by playing board games, watching TV, etc. 

10. Keep emergency contact details with you 

You can save important numbers digitally for quick access, such as local hospitals, hotel reception, etc. Also, share your travel plans with your family members and friends just for their knowledge. 

Traveling with children during the rains is both joyful and overwhelming. On one hand, you create endless memories of fun and adventure with your little one; however, you always feel on your toes when it comes to their safety and security during the vacation days. However, by following these simple safety tips, you can experience the best vacation ever with your child. 

FAQs

Q1. Is it safe to travel to the mountains/hill stations during monsoon?

Some hilly areas experience landslides and roadblocks during heavy rains. If you plan to visit a hill station, make necessary safety plans well in advance. Always check local weather updates, any warnings from the weather department to ensure safe traveling. Always know the alternate routes or escape ways from the place; in case rains worsen, you can easily get out of the place.